Mumbai

Mumbadevi temple

Mumbai 03-2016 94 Kanheri Caves

Hajiali

Madh-fort3

Mumbai 03-2016 72 Flora Fountain

AMH-6748-NA Two views of the English fort in Bombay

Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra. It is the most populous city in India and the seventh most populous city in the world, with a population of approximately 20 million. Mumbai lies on the west coast of India and has a deep natural harbor.

History[edit | edit source]

Mumbai's history dates back to ancient times. The area was originally a conglomeration of seven islands on the Konkan coastline, which over time were joined to form the island city of Bombay. The city was ceded to the Portuguese Empire in 1534 and later to the British East India Company in 1661. Under British rule, Bombay became a major trading port and a center for the Indian independence movement.

Geography[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is located on the Konkan coast on the west of India and has a deep natural harbor. The city covers an area of 603.4 square kilometers. The city is divided into two distinct regions: Mumbai City district and Mumbai Suburban district, which together form the Greater Mumbai area.

Economy[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is the financial, commercial, and entertainment capital of India. It is also one of the world's top ten centers of commerce in terms of global financial flow. The city houses important financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, and the National Stock Exchange of India. Mumbai is also home to Bollywood, the Hindi-language film industry.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is a melting pot of cultures and communities. The city is known for its diverse population, with people from all over India and the world residing here. The primary language spoken is Marathi, although Hindi, English, and other Indian languages are also widely spoken.

Culture[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is known for its vibrant culture, which includes a mix of traditional and modern influences. The city hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and fairs. Some of the major festivals celebrated in Mumbai include Diwali, Holi, Eid al-Fitr, and Christmas. The city is also famous for its street food, nightlife, and shopping districts.

Transportation[edit | edit source]

Mumbai has a well-developed transportation network. The Mumbai Suburban Railway is one of the oldest and most extensive urban rail networks in the world. The city is also served by the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport and the Mumbai Metro. Public buses operated by the Brihanmumbai Electric Supply and Transport (BEST) provide extensive coverage across the city.

Education[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Mumbai, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, and the Tata Institute of Social Sciences. The city also has numerous schools, colleges, and research institutions.

Healthcare[edit | edit source]

Mumbai has a robust healthcare system with numerous public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical research centers. Some of the notable hospitals include the Tata Memorial Hospital, the King Edward Memorial Hospital, and the Lilavati Hospital.

Tourism[edit | edit source]

Mumbai is a major tourist destination, known for its historical landmarks, beaches, and cultural sites. Some of the popular tourist attractions include the Gateway of India, Marine Drive, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, and the Elephanta Caves.