As winter approaches, the question of whether Mumbai truly experiences the season is a topic of much discussion. Renowned actress Ssujata Mehta recently shared her thoughts on Mumbai’s so-called winter and how she adapts to the city’s unique weather conditions.
“Mumbai doesn’t really have a winter; it’s more like a cooler summer,” she quipped. “The weather is so warm here that you can’t even wear full sleeves comfortably. I remember in 2006 when the temperature dropped to around 13 degrees, and it actually felt like winter. But moments like that are so rare.”
Reflecting on the news that Mumbai has recorded its warmest winter in 16 years, reaching 37.3°C, the actress expressed her surprise. “It’s shocking! A winter with such high temperatures doesn’t feel like winter at all. I wish we could have at least two proper winter months in Mumbai so we could enjoy the season and wear winter clothes without having to travel outstation. Unfortunately, winter here often doesn’t even start until late January.”
Despite the lack of a traditional winter, Ssujata finds joy in small moments. “I miss the cool climate combined with the warm sun. Luckily, where I live, the area is surrounded by trees, so I get a nice, cool breeze in the mornings along with sunlight. But it’s not the same as the crisp, cold air of a proper winter.”
When it comes to layering outfits in winter, the actress has a unique approach. “I love using heavy dupattas and stoles—they’re so versatile. I sometimes make turbans with 2-3 dupattas for a distinctive style. I also enjoy wearing boots, experimenting with long sleeves, jackets, and trousers. Since the weather here is humid even in winter, I stick to breathable fabrics and keep my makeup subtle.”
For those looking to look winter-ready while staying comfortable, Ssujata recommends experimenting with light synthetic fabrics, polo necks, and jackets. “You can add accessories like hats or a nice stole to create a winter vibe. Keep your makeup minimal to avoid discomfort in the humidity. When I travel abroad, I go all out with heavy winter outfits, but for Mumbai, it’s all about keeping it stylish yet comfortable.”
Ssujata’s experiences with real winters, such as her travels to Mansarovar and Kailash, where temperatures dropped to -3°C, remind her of the charm of proper winters. “Those memories of experiencing freezing cold temperatures make me appreciate the real essence of winter, something Mumbai just doesn’t have.”
