Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay in English, is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and the financial, commercial, and entertainment epicenter of India. It is renowned for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, bustling markets, and as the birthplace of Bollywood, one of the largest centers of film production in the world. Situated on the west coast of India, Mumbai is also a major port city on the Arabian Sea, making it a crucial hub for trade and commerce.
Mumbai is facing significant challenges, including overcrowding, pollution, housing shortages, and periodic monsoon flooding. However, the city is also known for its resilience, exemplified by the spirit of its residents who navigate these challenges with perseverance and optimism.
Mumbai is a city of dreams, contrasts, and relentless energy. Its history, cultural diversity, and economic power make it not just the heart of Maharashtra but a pivotal city on the global stage. Despite its challenges, Mumbai’s spirit, symbolized by its ever-busy streets, historic landmarks, and the vibrant tapestry of its communities, continues to inspire and attract people from all walks of life.
Short facts about Mumbai
Coordinates: 19°04′34″N 72°52′39″E
State: Maharashtra
Division: Konkan
Elevation: 14 metres (46 ft) above sea level
Time zone: UTC+5:30 (IST)
Is Mumbai the capital of India?
No, New Dehli is the capital of India, while Mumbai is the most populous city in the country.
Name
The name Mumbai is derived from Mumbā (also known as Mahā-Ambā) who is the Hindu patron goddess of the Koli community. The ending -ā’ī signifies ”mother” in the Marathi language; the native language of the Koli people.
A Mumbai resident is called Mumbaikar, which is a Marathi word. In Marathi, the ending -kar means ”resident of”.
Economic significance
As India’s financial powerhouse, Mumbai hosts the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, and numerous multinational corporations. Despite not being the political capital of India, Mumbai is considered the financial and commercial capital of the country.
The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE Limited) is the oldest extant stock exchange in all of Asia and the 10th oldest in the world. As of 2024, it is also the 8th largest stock exchange in world, with a market capitalization exceeding 366 trillion rupee (US$4.6 trillion) in January 2024. Over 5,300 stocks are listed here and they are traded in Indian rupees (₹). The Bombay Stock Exchange was founded in 1875 by the Indian cotton merchant Premchand Roychand.
Mombai accounts for roughly one quarter of India’s total industrial output and 70% of the maritime trade. Like many other megacities around the world, Mumbai is a city of stark contrasts, with opulent skyscrapers and sprawling slums, showcasing the immense wealth disparity among its residents. Mumbai is known for its indomitable spirit and the dreams it represents for millions.
Historical overview
Mumbai’s history is a rich tapestry that reflects the influences of various indigenous empires, colonial powers, and a melting pot of communities and cultures.
The city originally consisted of seven islands inhabited by Marathi-speaking Koli communities where fishing was a very important. For centuries, the seven islands were led by indigenous rulers, before being colonized by Portugal.
In 1661, the seven islands were ceeded to England through the dowry of Catherine Braganza as she married Charless II of England. Due to this transaction, Mumbai fell under the control of the East India Company.
The British undertook extensive reclamation projects from 1782 to 1845, which eventually led to the merging of the seven islands into a single landmass. The addition of railways and major roads turned Mumbai into an important port city on the Arabian Sea.
In the early 20th century, Mumbai became an important hub for the Indian independence movement.
Cultural and architectural heritage
Mumbai’s architectural landscape is a testament to its colonial past and cosmopolitan present, featuring Gothic, Victorian, Art Deco, and contemporary architectural styles. Notable landmarks include the iconic Gateway of India, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (formerly Victoria Terminus), and the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Elephanta Caves located nearby on Elephanta Island.
The city’s cultural fabric is woven from the traditions of various communities, including Marathi, koli, Gujarati, Konkani, and others, making it a melting pot of festivals, food, and languages. Mumbai’s culinary scene offers everything from street food delicacies like vada pav and pav bhaji to international cuisines.
Bollywood and Marathi Chithrapat
Mumbai is home to Bollywood, the Hindi-language sector of the Indian filmmaking industry, and is also the centre for Marathi Cinema (Marathi Chithrapat), the sector of Indian cinema dedicated to the Marathi language. The city thrives on cinema, with numerous theaters screening films in multiple languages.
With both Bollywood and Marathi Chithrapat here, it is not surprising that Mumbai is attracting a steady stream of aspiring actors, filmmakers, and artists from near and far, all dreaming of making it big in the entertainment industry.
Tourism and leisure
The city offers a plethora of attractions for tourists, ranging from the bustling markets of Colaba and the serene Marine Drive to the green expanses of Sanjay Gandhi National Park. Mumbai is also the gateway to the beautiful hill stations of Maharashtra and the scenic Konkan coast.
Mumbai is served by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (IATA: BOM, ICAO: VABB).