Obama is renting out the entire Taj Mahal hotel and attending meetings at NCPA and the Oberoi (see schedule). As you might remember, the Taj and Oberoi were two major sites of the gruesome terrorist attacks on Nov 26, 2008. Hence, the city is under extra lockdown during the visit, some measures include -
* The low seas around South Mumbai guarded by US naval ships
* All foreigners residing in hotels in South Bombay interviewed and documented
* Road closures, suspension of liquor permits and general prevention of crowds over the weekend
* Obama's traveling in 'Cadillac One' --an armored, missile proof car
Granted, needing my Indian city to be guarded by American battleships is a little embarrassing. But I think it would be infinitely more embarrassing if something were to happen to during Obama's visit that would make the CWG preparations look like a grand success.
What are people saying?
The visit has drawn mix feelings from the civilian population. For example, the Taj junior staff has been from the hotel for the visit. Some staff are disappointed they are not able to serve the US president, while others are ecstatic about a rare 4-day vacation coinciding with Diwali (India's closest equivalent to Christmas).
How do I feel about it?
As a good American citizen, I should attend panels/public events involving the President, but as an experienced former Indian citizen, I'm fleeing the city in anticipation of the crippling seizure to the city to be dealt by the visit. Watch for a "Goa Redux" post!
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