Women Hanging From Local Trains & Their Struggle Is Not The 'Spirit Of Mumbai', It's Dangerous

The spirit of Mumbai is often described as indomitable, resilient and unwavering. It is the kind of spirit which does not break, even in the face of adversity. People who come to Mumbai in search of work are often crushed by the city’s rush but the wind is such that helps people rise up and face the world again. Its spirit is that of struggle but also fulfilment. Its spirit is that of soul-crushing despair but also hope. 

However, the struggle that people in Mumbai have to face is regularly romanticised – sometimes to an extent that is problematic. For example, here is a video of female passengers literally hanging from a local train. A lot of people might call it inspiring…that people in Mumbai overcome all odds to go about their day. But it is actually not.