Ask any diehard Mumbaikar, and they’ll have a Cafe Samovar story to share. That first date. The favourite college hangout (in the pre-coffee shop era). The hurried lunch in between assignments. Chai time on a rainy afternoon. That rare occasion when you spot a celebrity theatrewallah, artist or TV star (DD days) who might have strolled in after checking out the latest show at Jehangir Art Gallery.

As we face the eventuality of having to bid goodbye to Cafe Samovar later this month, the memories and minutes came back in a rush. Reminiscences apart, what’s a matter of huge concern is the reality of having to watch another landmark get erased from Mumbai’s cityscape. This was no mere cafe. It was a great statement that reflected the city’s vibrant, diverse fabric.