"Maximum City: Bombay Lost and Found" is a non-fiction book by Indian-American author Suketu Mehta, first published in 2004. The book is an exploration of the complex and vibrant city of Mumbai (formerly Bombay), the largest city in India.
The book is structured as a series of interwoven narratives, ranging from the author's own experiences living in the city, to profiles of various residents, including Bollywood actors, slum dwellers, gangsters, police officers, and others. Through these stories, Mehta explores the many contradictions and complexities of life in Mumbai, from the extreme poverty of its slums to the lavish lifestyles of its wealthy elite.
Throughout the book, Mehta grapples with questions of identity, culture, and globalization, examining how Mumbai's rich history and diverse population have shaped the city's present and future. He also delves into the political and economic realities of modern India, including the rise of Hindu nationalism and the impact of globalization on the country's social and economic landscape.
"Maximum City" has been praised for its vivid portrayal of life in Mumbai, as well as its insightful analysis of the city's social, cultural, and political dynamics. It has won several literary awards and has been widely acclaimed as one of the most important works of non-fiction about India in recent years.
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