The unprecedented bouts of violence that ravaged Bombay in December 1992 and January1993 raised agonizing questions about how such a disaster could have occurred in India's modern metropolis. This book identifies the key characteristics of the city and explores the processes that have led to its conspicuous successes and hidden conflicts. The three main themes treated are about and enterprise; claims on land, housing, and health; and politics and populism. The contributors deal with the city's present, as well as with its roots in the recent and colonial past.

A poignant and moving statement on what constitutes the reality that is Bombay today the contribution stand out in terms of their commitment to the city and the traditions it have so long represented.

Displays fine scholarship, weaving the past history of the city into the framework of the most recent events mirrors the inner life of the city Business Standard.

About the Author:

Sujata Patel has been Professor and head, Department of Sociology, SNDT Women's university, Bombay, since 1992. her books include Bombay: Mosaic of Modern Culture (co-edited with Alice Thorner). And the making of Industrial relations: Ahmedabad Textile Industry 1918-39

Alice Thorner Lived in Bombay for seven years in the 1950s and has been involved in numerous research project in India. Her publications include Land and Labour in India (co-authored with Daniel Thorner)