The Meanings of Mumbai
Posted on February 21, 2009 - Filed Under History, Travel
Originally known as Bombay, the city of Mumbai is known as the financial capital of India. itis also the capital of Maharashtra and is part of the fifth most populous metropolitan area in the world. Long known as the entertainment and commercial capital of India, Mumbai has a strong cultural heritage that is reflected in the people and even the name of hs exotic yet modern city.
The city’s previous name was born in te 16th century. The original Portuguese settlers called the city by a number of names until settling on Bombaim. The spelling was changed to Bombay when the British took possession of much of India in the 17th century. The Bombaim spelling is still in use n Portuguese.
Even during its life as Bombay, the city was known as Mumbai or Mambai to Gujarati and Marathi speakers. Hindi and Urd referred to the city as Bambai. Mumbai derives from Mumba or Maha-Ama. It honors the Hindu goddess Mumbadvi and Aai or “mother” from the Marathi language.
The name of the city was officially changed to Mumbai in 1996, though it took over a decade for those outside India to begin using the name.
Mumbai is enjoying a bit of global celebrity due to the international popularity of the film “Slumdog Millionaire.” This is a welcome respite after last fall’s terrorist attacks on several landmarks and 5 star Mumbai hotels. The city has recovered from numerous wars, occupations, and terrorist attacks over the years. There is no doubt it will reclaim its former glory fairly quickly.
Related posts:
- Bollywood Mumbai
- The Markets and Malls of Mumbai
- Mumbai’s Shilpa Chavan
- Elephanta Caves of India
- Celebrating Ganesh in India
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