It has been almost 5 years since I left India. The longest ever I have gone without getting on a jet and flying off into the wild blue. My life has been mostly restricted to rural India where my neighbors are typically goat herders. So it was a type of culture shock arriving at the new state of the art airport in Mumbai.
The last time I went through Shivaji International it was under construction. The security was slow and primitive. The shops and eateries hadn't changed in over a decade. The overall vibe lacked any competitive edge against a new class of 5-star airports emerging around the world.
Not any more, baby; the award winning Terminal 2 at Shivaji International airport has now raised the bar on the look and feel of world class junction points. Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the airport now makes 'most beautiful airports in the world' lists.
Mixing a blend of old world Islamic geometric patterns with hints of 60s retro and classic deco the architectural fusion satisfies the senses with a golden glow that is both calming and exciting.
Classic Indian giftshops live next to the latest hi-tech swag. You can eat at the food court for the budget travelors or indulge in the bars and lounges for the big spenders. But you never get the generic cold feel most airports have.
The architectural details engage the eye in a casual understated but playful way.
But India is perhaps the birthplace of bling, and there is never a moment here at Shivaji International that you forget that - although, its always done with taste.
For the nature lovers we have garden walls behind every check-in gate. A place where nerves often need calming.
Perhaps the best thing about the new airport was the efficient and friendly security check. Other airports need to take notes here. Shivaji International had a very professional crew at hand. They eliminated the heavy handed military approach and opted for warm smiles, something India is never in a shortage of.
