Mumbai
Mumbai, formerly called Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and one of India’s largest cities.
Mumbai, formerly called Bombay, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and one of India’s largest cities. It is a major financial, commercial, and cultural centre, and is located on the west coast of India on the Arabian Sea. The city’s official name was changed from Bombay to Mumbai in 1995.
Name
Mumbai was officially known as Bombay until 1995. The renaming was carried out by the Maharashtra government and is commonly linked to a move away from colonial-era naming. The name Mumbai is associated with Mumbadevi, a local goddess.
History
The city developed from a group of islands into a large port and urban centre. It became known as Bombay under colonial rule and later Mumbai under its modern official name.
Geography
Mumbai is located on India’s west coast in Maharashtra, facing the Arabian Sea. Its coastal position has long supported its role as a port city.
Economy and culture
Mumbai is widely known as India’s financial capital and as a centre for commerce, shipping, and the Hindi-language film industry often called Bollywood.
Key facts
- Bombay is the former official English name of Mumbai.
- Mumbai is the capital city of Maharashtra in India.
- The city was officially renamed Mumbai in 1995.
- Mumbai is a major financial, commercial, and entertainment hub.
- The 2011 census population of the city proper was 12,442,373.
Mumbai is relevant to Canadian readers as a major global city with strong ties to trade, migration, media, and South Asian diaspora communities in Canada.
Frequently asked questions
What is Bombay now called?
Why is Bombay called Mumbai?
What is Bombay known for?
Is Bombay a city in India?
Where is Bombay located?
What is the population of Bombay?
References
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MumbaiSupports: Official name Mumbai, former name Bombay, capital of Maharashtra, 2011 population, and location.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/MumbaiSupports: Mumbai as capital of Maharashtra, major financial and commercial centre, port on the Arabian Sea, and renaming in 1995.
- Mumbai City Government — https://mumbaicity.gov.in/en/history/Supports: 1995 renaming from Bombay to Mumbai and association with Mumbadevi.
- BBC News — https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj60k3x879roSupports: Historical context for the Bombay to Mumbai name change and colonial-era significance.