Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay until 1995, is now the capital of Maharashtra and one of India’s most influential cities, largely known as the ‘Economic Capital’ of India. It is also famous for ‘Bollywood’, where many of its cine songs and movie titles tell its tale of being known as ‘Bombay’ far and wide, like “Bombay kaa Babu” and many others.
Located on the Konkan coast, it has a deep natural harbor and is recognized as an alpha world city. It is also India’s wealthiest city, home to the highest number of millionaires and billionaires. Mumbai is now also known as the ‘City of Dreams’. As per the official website, the seven islands that came to constitute Mumbai were home to communities of fishing colonies of the Koli people.
How was the name Mumbai originate?
The name “Mumbai” originated from the city’s patron deity, Goddess Mumba Devi, who was worshipped by the Koli community, the earliest inhabitants of the region. Thus, Mumbai derives its name from patron deity the Mother Goddess Mumba Devi, worshiped by the earliest populations- the Kolis.
The city is surrounded by water on three sides, it is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west and south, and Thane Creek to the east. To the north, it shares its boundary with the Mumbai Suburban District.
For centuries, the islands were under the control of successive indigenous empires before being yielded to the Portuguese Empire and subsequently to the East India Company when in 1661 Charles II of England married Catherine of Braganza. As part of her dowry, Charles received the ports of Tangier and Seven Islands of Bombay.
In the mid-18th century, the Hornby Vellard project transformed Bombay by reclaiming land from the sea to merge the seven islands into a single landmass. Along with construction of major roads and railways, the reclamation project, completed in 1845, transformed Bombay into a major seaport on the Arabian Sea.
Bombay in the 19th century was characterized by economic and educational development. During the early 20th century, it became a strong base for the Indian independence movement. Upon India’s independence in 1947 the city was incorporated into Bombay State. In 1960, following the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement, a new state of Maharashtra was created with Bombay as the capital. Bombay is now MUMBAI…!
A popular tourist attraction
Mumbai, one of the major cosmopolitan cities in India, is now a popular tourist attraction. It is primarily famous for large markets, mesmerizing beaches, towering buildings, and exquisite five-star hotels.
Mumbai and its locations are unique. Unlike other cities, it is made up of seven islands that were united to make the city a whole. These islands include Colaba, Mahim, Parel, Worli, Isle of Bombay, Little Colaba, and Mazagaon.
Noted vegetarian street foods in Mumbai include Dabeli panipuri, bhelpuri, sevpuri, dahipuri, sandwiches, ragda-pattice, pav bhaji, Chinese bhel, Khaman, Dhokla, idlis and dosas-all of which are vegetarian.
Its ‘Mumbai High’, formerly Bombay High, is the largest oil field in India. It is an offshore oilfield located in the Arabian Sea, approximately 160km west of the Mumbai coast. It was discovered in 1974, which had started production in 1976.
Many of Mumbai’s nicknames are New York City of India; Maya Nagri, Bollywood; The City that never Sleeps; City of Dreams; City of Seven Islands; Hollywood of India; Gateway of India; Economic & Financial Capital of India.
While being in Mumbai, one can visit various places of utmost importance. A visitor can Seek Blessings at Siddhivinayak Temple, Haji Ali Dargah, visit Gateway of India, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Marine Drive, Juhu Beach, Kanheri Caves, Drive on Bandra-Vorli Sea Link or Enjoy Rides at Essel World, visit Top Bollywood Stars Residences (Outside)-Jalsa, Mannat, and many more.
Educationist/Administrator/Editor/Author/Speaker
Commencing teaching in his early twenties, Prof Aggarwal has diverse experience of great tenure in the top institutions not only as an educationist, administrator, editor, author but also promoting youth and its achievements through the nicest possible content framing. A revolutionary to the core, he is also keen to address the society around him for its betterment and growth on positive notes while imbibing the true team spirit the work force along with.
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