‘Beautiful Bombay’: The 1970s Tourism Ad That Captured Mumbai’s Timeless Charm - Watch
Before it became the bustling financial capital known as Mumbai, Bombay was India’s window to the world a melting pot of art, glamour, and modernity. A recently resurfaced tourism ad from the 1970s, titled “Beautiful Bombay,” is now going viral, taking viewers on a nostalgic trip back to when the city first began defining cosmopolitan India.
“Truly a cosmopolitan, Bombay is a city alive with fun and excitement, a happy blend of east and the west, where visitors immediately feel at home,” the female narrator says, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the city.
It also features graceful classical performances from Kathak and Manipuri to Lavani symbolizing India’s deep-rooted traditions thriving in a modern urban space. “Take back an Indian saree as a souvenir, its place and charm are unequal in the world,” the narrator adds with pride.
Decades later, the ‘Beautiful Bombay’ ad stands as more than just a tourism campaign. It’s a love letter to a city that has always embraced change while staying rooted in its diversity and warmth. When Bombay officially became Mumbai in 1995, the name changed but the city’s radiant, cosmopolitan soul remained timeless.
India’s Dreamy Pitch For ‘Beautiful Bombay’
To attract international travelers, the Indian government crafted an ad that showcased Bombay as the epitome of beauty, sophistication, and diversity. The film opens with stylish women in elegant sarees and chic sunglasses, strolling with poise reminiscent of old Bollywood heroines. The scenes move fluidly from horse racing to sauna baths, gyms, swimming pools, and yoga sessions, each frame painting a portrait of luxury and liveliness.“Truly a cosmopolitan, Bombay is a city alive with fun and excitement, a happy blend of east and the west, where visitors immediately feel at home,” the female narrator says, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the city.
Beyond Glamour: The Cultural Pulse Of Bombay
The ad wasn’t just about glamour and modern comforts. It proudly highlighted the city’s cultural fabric the real essence of Bombay. “Step out for a change, and go sightseeing around the city,” the voice suggests, leading viewers through scenes of the serene Powai Lake. “If fishing is the sport of your choice, you will be drawn to Bombay’s Powai Lake,” it continues.It also features graceful classical performances from Kathak and Manipuri to Lavani symbolizing India’s deep-rooted traditions thriving in a modern urban space. “Take back an Indian saree as a souvenir, its place and charm are unequal in the world,” the narrator adds with pride.
A Throwback Gem From A Simpler Time
The ad ends on a carefree note, with foreigners running on sandy beaches under the golden sun a stark contrast to today’s social media-driven era where such expressions often spark controversy.Decades later, the ‘Beautiful Bombay’ ad stands as more than just a tourism campaign. It’s a love letter to a city that has always embraced change while staying rooted in its diversity and warmth. When Bombay officially became Mumbai in 1995, the name changed but the city’s radiant, cosmopolitan soul remained timeless.
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