The reassuring rhythm of Mumbai's lifeline races on the rail tracks as hundreds of men in 'ganjees' (vests) get ready to toughen their macho bodies in the garb of washing clothes
The gentle flapping of clothes is interrupted by the crow's call. Its a new day.
Slosh-thud-thud-thud .. beckons the beginning of another day at Dhobi Ghaat as the first dhobi pulls out his wet bundle from the tank and starts hammering it systematically on the stone. Soon the others join in and fall into a thumping rhythm; one that synchronises and simultaneously softens the metallic clang of the bogies racing behind the engine
Dhobi Ghaat is 140 years old. Millions of clothes are washed here everyday. There are 700 stones
Am not sure if it has gained international recognition like our dabbawalas; its equally essential, provides employment to thousands and cleans up the dirties for millions of mumbaikars
It is a must see on a visitor's list. A guided tour costs INR 300/- . Cameras are charged extra
Just another example of the organisation and entrepreneurship of the savvy washermen
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