Much has been said and  debated on  the manner in which the media (primarily Broadcast), covered the Mumbai Terror attacks.

Without going into the long and short of it, I would say, it was both, remarkable, and disturbing.

Remarkable, from a physical point of view. It takes a lot of courage to be in the line of fire and yet, report on the goings on.

Disturbing, because time and again, one saw my fraternity cross the ethical line, when it came to such reportage. Sharing vital information or, in not following norms of sobriety, which was much required. These debates haven't died down as yet. Reemerging to one's dismay, as one Mumbai newspaper front paged images of mutilated bodies of the victims at the Taj Mahal Hotel.
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The Taj Mahal hotel of Mumbai re opens a few days from now. So does the Trident. Both, not so long ago, battered by gun-totting militants. The re-opening symbolizing the Spirit of Mumbai. And a tribute to those who lost their lives. Prominent citizens putting off celebrations. Hotels doing away with lavish parties. Muslims wearing a black arm-band and pledging not to celebrate Eid. The common man, chipping in, in his own way. Doing away with music and flashy lights at family weddings. All of them, with a sense of solidarity, to a spirit which says, Chin up.
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This is not in defense of a  person accused of the Terror attack on Mumbai. But  a few fundamental questions which I couldn't help but share.

It is perfectly legitimate to get emotional and resolve that no body should defend someone who has attacked the country. (A group of lawyers have passed this resolution). But emotions set aside, its time to be rational.

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We say life in this mega polis bounces back the next day. It is a city which never sleeps. The spirit of Mumbai cannot be silenced. And hence, be it any blast, a terror attack or a tragedy, even of insurmountable dimensions, we display a courage rare among most cities and their inhabitants.And are back at work the next day.
 
I  Read this very interesting analysis in the Indian Express the other day demystifying this 'undying spirit'  Or we really such breavehearts, questions the writer.  Or is it because we are a city without options. People have a life to lead, a living to make and have to work, to make ends meet. To meet commitments. And hence, the morning after, life for those unaffected by tragedy, continues. They have no choice.
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I have never seen a movement  or a moment like this. The numbers just kept swelling. For every one person that was walking towards the exit, there were a thousand walking in. At the cost of sounding dramatic, it was as beautiful, as tragedy can allow it to be beautiful. Of recent times, it reminded me of the final day of the Ganapati immersion. Otherwise, it was a flesh and blood version of what I have seen in black and white spools, the march of the masses which led to India's independence....