Mumbai

Downtown Mumbai at night

The Bombay Stock Exchange

Mumbai (previously known as Bombay until 1996) is a natural harbour on the west coast of India, and is the capital city of Maharashtra state.

Population

Mumbai is India's largest city, and one of the world's most populous cities. It is the financial capital of India and a global city. Many billionaires live there. The city is the second most-populous in the world. It has about 13 million people.^[1] Along with the neighbouring cities of Navi Mumbai and Thane, it forms the world's 4th largest urban agglomeration. They have around 19.1 million people^[2]

History

The seven islands that form Bombay were home to fishing colonies. The islands were ruled by successive kingdoms and indigenous empires before Portuguese settlers took it. Then, it went to the British East India Company. During the mid-18th century, Bombay became a major trading town. It became a strong place for the Indian independence movement during the early 20th century. When India became independent in 1947, the city was put into Bombay State. In 1960, following the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, a new state of Maharashtra was created with Bombay as the capital. It was renamed Mumbai in 1996.^[3]

Economy

Mumbai generates more than 6% of India's GDP.^[4] It accounts for 25% of industrial output, 40% of sea trade, and 70% of capital transactions to India's economy.^[5] The Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India and many Indian companies and multinational corporations are in the city. It also has the Hindi film and television industry, known as Bollywood.

Public transport in Mumbai

The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport is Mumbai's public transport service.

Tourist Attractions in Mumbai

Visit the Gateway of India
Watch the Sunset on Marine Drive
Drive across the Bandra-Worli Sea Link
Take Pictures of the Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai
Visit the Kanheri Caves

Mumbai Media

The Mumba Devi Temple, from whom the city of Mumbai may derive its name.
The Haji Ali Dargah was built in 1431, when Mumbai was under the rule of the Gujarat Sultanate.
The Madh Fort, built by the Portuguese, was one of the most important forts in Salsette.
Flora Fountain, built in Neo Classical and Gothic Revival style in 1864, depicts the Roman goddess Flora.
Two views of the English fort in Bombay, c. 1665
Ships in Mumbai Harbour (c. 1731). Mumbai emerged as a significant trading town during the mid-18th century.
Municipal Corporation Building, Mumbai in 1950 (Victoria Terminus partly visible on far right)
Hutatma Chowk in the night time
Satellite image of Mumbai