Mumbai is renowned for its intense monsoon season, which, while often romanticized on social media, frequently results in significant disruptions across the city. Flooding and waterlogging are common, especially in the city’s subways, leading to traffic chaos, interruptions in daily life, and sometimes severe consequences.
The heavy rains, typically occurring from July to September, can overwhelm the city, as evidenced by numerous reports of flooding choking the streets and causing major disturbances.
Recently, an Australian woman, Bree Steele, shared her experience navigating these floodwaters via Instagram. Steele, a podcaster and content creator, was both impressed and amused by her Uber driver’s ability to skillfully navigate through the flooded streets of Mumbai at 3 a.m.
Despite the challenging conditions, Steele was struck by the resilience and calm demeanor of the locals. Her post highlighted how her driver’s expertise ensured she reached the airport on time, despite the daunting conditions.
In her video, Steele expressed her admiration for the toughness and chill nature of Indian people. She marveled at how the driver managed to navigate through floodwaters that were higher than the vehicle’s wheels and how the city’s residents remained unflappable despite the severe weather. Her light-hearted yet appreciative commentary underscored her belief that such an experience was uniquely Indian.
The video quickly gained traction online, garnering over 221,000 likes and more than 2 million views. It resonated with many viewers, who shared their own experiences and observations about Mumbai’s monsoon challenges. Comments highlighted both the unpredictability of the weather and the exceptional nature of the city’s residents, who often go out of their way to help others in difficult situations.
User reactions varied, with some noting the severity of Mumbai’s monsoon and advising others to plan for potential delays during this period. Others recounted their personal stories of navigating similar challenges in Mumbai, praising the city’s residents for their generosity and willingness to assist. The responses reflected a deep appreciation for the resilience and solidarity of Mumbai’s people amidst the often overwhelming monsoon season.