Mutants across the world – MUMBAY!

Namaste! I'm Asha and welcome to my city! Home to Bollywood and nearly 20 million people, it's easy to get to lost amongst the bustling streets and markets here in Mumbai so let me give you a few pointers.

 Firstly, despite that number, the mutant population in Mumbai isn't as high as you might expect, at least not noticeably - it's hard to stand out in the crowds no matter what your form (giants aside)! Mumbai is arguably the most cosmopolitan city in India so whilst you will get the odd glance, mutants are generally accepted here although accessibility continues to be an issue.

 Travelling around the city is a major one. Auto-rickshaws are a popular way of getting about but, outside a few enterprising owners, most aren't adapted for more unique bodies. That won't stop drivers from offering you a ride though so just be prepared to be a little uncomfortable or stick with the regular taxis. You can also take the bus or the suburban railway to get further afield but these get extremely busy so don't be surprised when you get some dirty looks if you're taking up more room than most. Just... unless you want a heart attack, DO NOT drive here - it's as crazy as you imagine!

 As for things to do, if you want to stick to the tourist trail, you have to visit the Gateway of India - Mumbai's very own Arc de Triomphe! Just be weary that it doesn't matter what you look like, the ferry tour guides here will hawk their tickets at you to no end and don't be surprised if the photographers are more interested in taking pictures of you than the monument!

 If you want to stretch your legs, particularly if you have a lot, a walk along the Marine Drive promenade is popular with locals and tourists alike for its views of the city skyline and Arabian Sea. They may not be that grand but the beaches in Mumbai are also great places to relax. They can get crowded pretty quickly but I would definitely recommend watching the sunset from Juhu beach on the West side. There are a few other, more secluded beaches that are popular hangouts for mutants where your company will always be welcome, just... for your own health, stay out of the water.

 No trip to Mumbai would be complete without some shopping but if you have more than one nose or one very sensitive one, you might find the fragrances of markets to be a bit overwhelming at first with the flower sellers, leather tanners and all the street food the city is famous for - do not leave until you've tried some panipuri, trust me. Most of the major outlets don't sell clothing for mutants but quite a few of the more independent stalls will happily tailor clothing for you right there and then... providing you're willing to haggle. You might have an easier time if you come across a mutant-run stall.

 If it's culture you're after, the city is full of beautiful temples, churches, religious places of all kinds really. Hinduism is the main religion here and this is particularly true of the mutant community. I think many like myself find solace in believing in deities that are similar in form to ourselves. But before you say anything, no, most people here, especially in the city, don't see us as gods or anything although it is true that some mutants in the more rural parts of the country become local celebrities for their appearance. No matter what your beliefs are, you can participate in the many religious festivals that happen throughout the year like Diwali with all its lights and fireworks, and Holi where you will be pelted with colourful powder – you can’t escape it!

 I mentioned Bollywood earlier - Mumbai is the birthplace of Indian cinema so be sure to catch a movie whilst you're here and try to enjoy all the whistling and clapping from the local audience - we like our Bollywood stars, alright? Aside from a few indie films, there aren't any major Bollywood movies that headline mutants but we are starting to see more as extras, the odd side character and even part of the dance numbers, which can be a real spectacle.

 If you want to see a real slice of India though, you have to get a tour of the Dharavi slums and not just because it was in Slumdog Millionaire… or that I live here! I know that might seem off-putting but it's a thriving ecosystem worth experiencing - over a million people living and working within less than one square mile. It's an inspirational place where mutants and normal folk literally work shoulder to shoulder (to shoulder) in many of the businesses that are run right out of peoples' homes. Come see our potters, our textile workers and the entrepreneurial spirit that built this city... plus there's always a bargain to be found!

 There's so much more Mumbai has to offer but I think that's a good start! The mutant scene here might not be as visible as other cities but it’s there and we’re a close-knit community that welcomes the different and curious.

 So namaste and come back again.