Irani Cafe Walks To Stargazing: 5 Things To Do In Mumbai This Weekend

Mumbai is buzzing with activities to enjoy this weekend. You can explore the culture of the iconic Irani cafes, attend an evening of classic Gujarati stories, or experience Japanese and Korean dance performances. If you're interested in a getaway from the city, consider signing up for a night of stargazing just outside of Mumbai.

An Evening Of Dastangoi, Gujarati Style

Embark on a captivating 90-minute journey celebrating the riches of classic Gujarati literature alongside the enchanting art of Dastangoi's Urdu style of storytelling. Experience these masterpieces brought to life through compelling performances. The stories include Amba Goranino Parbudo, written by Chunilal Madia and performed by Sejal Pondaa; Rasilaben Rasoiwala - written and performed by Dilip Rawal; Tiffin Bomb, written by Ajay Oza and performed by Mehul Buch; Jato Halkaro written by Zaverchand Meghan and performed by Alpana Buch; and Post Office - written by Dhoomketu and performed by Pratap Sachdeo

When: January 4, 7pm

Where: Tata Theatre Garden, WRG9+6J4, Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Rd, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021

Experience Korean And Japanese Dance

The NCPA, in collaboration with the Asia Dance Festival, showcases six performances by Korean and Japanese dance artists. These presentations include eight sequences representing the four seasons, the crane dance performed by Korean traditional scholars, and representative folk dance, which is celebrated for its artistic value and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, a Bharatanatyam performance and an Odissi performance will complement the showcase.

When: January 5, 11am

Where: Experimental Theatre, National Center for Peforming Arts, Sir Dorab Tata Road, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400021

Explore The Irani Cafe Culture

The Parisian café has an equivalent in early 20th-century Mumbai, known as the Irani café. These cafes were run by resilient Zoroastrian immigrants from Persia who arrived in the city in the mid-19th century seeking a better life. At one time, almost every corner of the city featured an Irani café. However, these institutions are fading away a century later, with only a handful remaining. Experience the old-world charm of these cafes with "Irani Chai," a food walk organised by Khaki Tours. You can enjoy staple dishes and hear stories about the city's Zoroastrian immigrants in what was once their neighbourhood. Highlights of the tour include sampling Irani chai with milk and sugar, Parsi doughnuts, cutlets, and pattice, and visiting the legendary Irani cafés that have a dedicated following of their own.

When: January 4

Meeting point: Mumbai INOX cinemas. Check Book My Show, Mumbai, for details

Immerse In The World Of Da Vinci

Embark on an extraordinary journey through an art exhibition that brings the genius of Leonardo da Vinci to life. Discover the captivating interplay of history, art, science, and nature as you engage with his masterpieces through stunning floor-to-ceiling projections, interactive displays, and advanced AI technology. Immerse yourself in da Vinci’s world and experience the allure of the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and over 50 additional extraordinary works. This unforgettable visit guarantees a fresh and exhilarating perspective on the brilliance of da Vinci. Be part of India’s first interactive immersive experience—a world-class show that’s making its much-anticipated debut in the country.

When: November 30 - January 29, 10:30am onwards

Where: Hall 7 Bombay Exhibition Center, Mumbai, Mhada Vanrai Colony, NESCO, Goregaon, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400063

Go Stargazing

Experience an unforgettable stargazing and photography tour at Dehne during new moon nights. Enjoy tented camping and sleep under the stars with the refreshing breeze from the surrounding mountain range. During this adventure, you will learn how to explore and identify the Northern Hemisphere constellations with the help of expert guides and telescopes. You'll also discover techniques for star photography, capturing stunning images of the Milky Way and striking star trails. Check Insider.in - Mumbai - for details.

When: January 4, 3pm-January 5, 11am

Where: Dehene Village Road, Dehene, P O Dolkhamb, Taluka, Shahapur, Dehene, Maharashtra 421601, India