Date:04/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/07/04/stories/2006070403310804.htm

Opinion - Letters to the Editor

Mumbai rude?

The findings of the Reader's Digest survey on Mumbai remind me of two incidents that took place when I visited Paris last year. At a restaurant, the waiter was disappointed with the small order I placed. He removed the tablecloth and cutlery before serving me with a surly face. Similarly the receptionist at the small hotel I stayed in refused to call a taxi on phone.

These in no way mean that the people of Paris are rude. We met some very nice people there. Unpleasant incidents can happen in any city across the world.

S. Nityananda,
Bangalore

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Years ago my husband and I arrived in Mumbai road-weary after a 16-hour journey. My host was away and his neighbour — a frail, old woman who was all alone — allowed us to use her home. If this is rude, Mumbai go ahead and get ruder!

Uma Kesavan,
Chennai

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As an infrequent visitor to Mumbai, I can vouch for the city's neutral behaviour towards its visitors. Mumbaikars value time and may appear rather rushed while dealing with people.

B.N. Gururaj,
Bangalore