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India.com
7 days ago
- General
- India.com
Gaya Is Now Gaya Ji...Check 10 Indian Cities Renamed In The Past And The Reason Behind The Same
photoDetails english 2909401 Updated:Jun 01, 2025, 02:12 PM IST Gaya Is Now 'Gaya Ji'... 1 / 11 A recent example is the renaming of Gaya in Bihar to "Gaya Ji." This movement is widespread, impacting both major cities and significant religious sites. The following provides an overview of some notable renaming and their underlying motivations. Gaya to Gaya Ji 2 / 11 The historic city of Gaya in Bihar, a significant pilgrimage site for hundreds of thousands of Hindu devotees annually, has officially been renamed 'Gaya Ji.' This change, recently approved by the state government, formalizes the name to reflect the deep reverence and spiritual importance already associated with the city, particularly in ancestral rituals. Gurgaon to Gurugram 3 / 11 In 2016, Gurgaon was officially renamed Gurugram, a change made to emphasize its mythological origins. Ancient texts suggest this land was a gift to Guru Dronacharya. While the city is now recognized for its rapid urban development, its new name serves as a reminder of its rich historical and cultural importance. Bombay to Mumbai 4 / 11 In 1996, Bombay was renamed Mumbai to honor the city's indigenous roots. The name "Mumbai" is derived from Mumba Devi, a local goddess revered by the Koli fishing community. This change also marked a significant step away from its colonial-era designation. Calcutta to Kolkata 5 / 11 In 2001, Calcutta was officially renamed Kolkata. This change was made to better align the city's name with its Bengali pronunciation and cultural identity. As a city renowned as India's intellectual hub, this renaming was part of a broader initiative to promote regional language and foster local pride. Mysore to Mysuru 6 / 11 In 2014, Mysore was officially renamed Mysuru. This change was made to better align with the Kannada language and to emphasize the region's rich mythological heritage. The name is deeply connected to the legend of Mahishasura and Goddess Chamundeshwari, who are central figures in local culture. Mangalore to Mangaluru 7 / 11 In 2014, the city's name officially transitioned from the Anglicized Mangalore to Mangaluru. This change, which stems from the goddess Mangaladevi, officially recognized the name long used by locals in the Kannada-speaking region. Bangalore to Bengaluru 8 / 11 In 2006, Bangalore, a city recognized globally for its thriving tech industry, was officially renamed Bengaluru. This change was enacted to honor the city's historical origins and revert to its original Kannada name, which dates back to the 9th century. Madras to Chennai 9 / 11 In 1996, Madras was renamed Chennai. This new name is believed to be connected to the ancient settlement of Chennapattinam. The change brought the city's identity in line with its Tamil heritage, as part of a broader initiative to shed British-era names. Pondicherry to Puducherry 10 / 11 In 2006, the Union Territory of Pondicherry was renamed Puducherry. Meaning "new town" in Tamil, this change better reflects the region's language and cultural identity. Despite the renaming, its charming French colonial architecture continues to be a defining feature. Orissa to Odisha 11 / 11 The renaming of Orissa to Odisha brought the state's official name in line with its authentic local pronunciation. The name 'Odisha' is derived from 'Odda Visaya,' an ancient term long used to describe the region. The former spelling, 'Orissa,' was an Anglicized version from the colonial era and didn't accurately reflect the local phonetics.
India.com
14-05-2025
- Business
- India.com
10 Facts About Mumbai City You Must Know
The Indian city Mumbai carries the dual identities of being both the financial capital alongside its nickname as the 'City of Dreams' and its recognition as a global metropolitan powerhouse. Mumbai serves as a multicultural center which offers various possibilities together with distinct obstacles. The rapidly developing city features deep traditions which differentiate it from other metropolitan areas. The city of Mumbai contains important information which every resident and visitor should understand. 1. Mumbai Was Once Called Bombay Mumbai received its modern name relatively not long ago. From 1995 forward the official designation of the city became Mumbai although its former name Bombay remained prevalent. The governmental initiative to modify official names from colonial origin to native monikers included the name change. According to folklore 'Mumbai' originated from 'Mumba Devi' who performed as the main goddess for the Koli fishing community that first settled in this region. The city continues to be called Bombay by numerous people although the government changed the official name officially to Mumbai. 2. Mumbai Is Built on Seven Islands Mumbai rests upon the foundation of seven original islands named Colaba, Old Woman's Island (Little Colaba), Mahim, Parel, Mazagaon, Worli alongside the Isle of Bombay. Throughout many years numerous land reclamation efforts fused these separate islands into one continuous section of land which reflects the current Mumbai territory. British colonial authorities initiated this construction of new land through land reclamation actions that continue to extend Mumbai out into the Arabian Sea through contemporary developments. 3. The Financial Hub of India Mumbai functions as India's financial epicenter by generating 6.16% of the national GDP. RBI together with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) have their headquarters in this location. The city functions as the financial hub of India because it holds headquarters for numerous multinational corporations and financial institutions in addition to banks. 4. Home to Bollywood Mumbai holds an iconic relationship with Bollywood since this industry remains the largest film production organization worldwide. Film City exists in the Andheri suburb where Hindi film studios operate as a production center. Decreasing numbers matter because Bollywood generates more than 1,000 Bollywood films every year compared to Hollywood. Mercifully the Bollywood industry provides entertainment to many people as it enhances economic activity by helping job creation and bringing visitors to the region. 5. Dharavi: Asia's Largest Slum Dharavi stands as the largest slum in Asia situated at the center of Mumbai city. 2.1 square kilometers makes up the residential area in which more than one million people reside. Dharavi functions as a thriving micro-economy because its production system consists of various small independent businesses which produce pottery and textiles and create leather goods while also including recycling units. The community demonstrates powerful traits of enterprise and strength through tough times. 6. Gateway of India: A Symbolic Landmark The Khubchandani Hills landmark which began construction in ancient times became a well-known symbol of Mumbai. British authorities built this monument in 1924 to commemorate the royal visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India. The place now serves as a historical colonial attraction which draws thousands of annual visitors exploring Mumbai. After 1948 British forces used Gateway of India as their exit point when they departed from India thus concluding British occupation of this territory. 7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus: A UNESCO World Heritage Site Victoria Terminus received its formal name as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and it displays Victorian Gothic architectural elements integrated with traditional Indian design concepts. Central Railway operates from this headquarters whose construction was completed in 1887 according to design by British architect F.W. Stevens. The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization designated it as a World Heritage Site in 2004 because of its historical and architectural value which merited this recognition. 8. The City Never Sleeps The continuous operation of Mumbai activities throughout the day earned this city its famous designation as 'The City That Never Sleeps.' Life in Mumbai does not slow down even during nighttime because the urban area preserves constant activity through its local trains and dabbawalas and street food vendors. The city maintains continuous activity because it serves as a principal economic and cultural center which grants abundant opportunities day and night. 9. A Melting Pot of Cultures Mumbai stands out as a place which warmly welcomes different populations at an impressive level. Hundreds of thousands of Indian citizens relocate to this city to seize superior possibilities while introducing diverse cultural aspects and gastronomic delights. Marathi serves as the municipal language although Hindi, English, Gujarati, and other tongues circle throughout day-to-day usage throughout the city. The city celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi alongside Diwali, Eid and Christmas festivals with equal enthusiasm that reflects its broadminded character. 10. Environmental Challenges Amidst Urbanization The ongoing progress of Mumbai brings along major environmental problems for the city. Fast urban development and pollution together with climate rise have worsened monsoon season flooding in the city. Wastes dumped alongside river encroachment have harmed the Mithi River so critically that it now endangers environmental balance and community health in this area. Energy sector leaders develop projects to treat the Mithi River along with drainage system development programs in response to these issues. Conclusion Mumbai exists beyond its physical boundaries because it showcases aspirations along with the capacities to survive and represents the unification of various cultural traditions. Since emerging as an archipelago Mumbai has experienced remarkable developmental changes to become a worldwide metropolis. People study Mumbai because its numerous historical aspects and vibrant cultural richness together with its crucial economic position create an interesting subject of appreciation. The metropolis faces urgent matters which need sustainable solutions while addressing them. The ten facts reveal the essence of Mumbai as a unique metropolis which continues to affect many people through its struggle with contemporary urban challenges.
The National
27-03-2025
- The National
Four hidden gems to visit in Mumbai, from Sheev Killa to Pancham Puriwala
Mumbai is a city of many contradictions, perhaps reflected by its many names over the centuries – from Maiambu, a reference to locally worshipped deity Mumba Devi, to the colonial-era Boon Bay and Bombay. Officially renamed Mumbai in 1995, India's finance capital and home to the thriving Bollywood film industry also has plenty to see and do for history buffs, foodies and culture vultures. Some landmarks – from the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre to the award-winning Masque restaurant – make headlines regularly, while others thrive quietly in the background, visited only by a knowing few. It is these hidden gems that discerning travellers are seeking out, and here are some to visit. Sheev or Sion, derived from the Marathi word for 'boundary', is a district that houses one of the oldest forts from colonial-era Bombay. Sion Hillock Fort, or Sheev Killa, was built in the 1670s by Gerald Aungier, who was the Governor of Bombay. It separated land owned by the British East India Company from the Portuguese-controlled Salsette Island (now the Thane and Mira-Bhayander areas). The fort is about 500 metres from Sion train station, and its watchtower and a remaining cannon can be accessed via a flight of stone steps. The view from the top is a study in contrasts, with one side offering a glimpse of Mumbai's oil refineries and salt pans, and the other looking out on to the contemporary glass facades and high-rises of Bandra-Kurla Complex, punctuated by the Bandra-Worli Sealink bridge. While the fort's role as a bastion of defence appears clear, the site also has a concrete maze. The purpose of the maze, however, remains a mystery, especially since its walls are barely 120cm tall so only pose a challenge for children to find their way out. The fort can be accessed via a stroll through the lush Jawaharlal Nehru garden, and it is free to enter. Roll-on, roll-off (or ro-ro) cargo ships that ferry passengers and their vehicles are the best way to get to Alibaug, a coastal town across the Arabian Sea from the Mumbai mainland. The car ferry can be caught from the air-conditioned port of Bhaucha Dhakka on the eastern seafront of Mumbai. It docks at Mandwa, the town made famous by Amitabh Bachchan's blockbuster movie Agneepath. While the 60-minute ride (priced from 420 rupees) affords photo opportunities featuring the city skyline and a rising or setting sun, it's worth spending a night or a weekend in the main town of Alibaug. Dubbed the Miami of Mumbai, it offers some of the area's cleanest beaches and boasts several celebrities' homes, including those of actor Shah Rukh Khan and cricketer Virat Kohli. In recent years, both Mandwa and Alibaug have become gourmet destinations, too, serving fresh seafood in the coastal Malvani and Goan styles. Must-try restaurants include Boardwalk by Flamboyante on Mandwa jetty and The Backyard Cafe in Varsoli village, close to the main town, plus Mayoor Bakery, which has been serving artisanal breads since the 1970s. Chef Moshe Shek also runs culinary classes at A World Away, an organic farm in the hamlet of Awas, which is particularly popular with Mumbai's 'ladies who lunch'. Larger groups can book out a minimum of 10 rooms at Mansion House, a 25-room boutique resort by Sasawane beach, renowned for its quaint decor and exceptional service. One of Mumbai's oldest restaurants, built in the colonial era, Pancham Puriwala is in the Fort area of South Bombay. It began as a grab-and-go stall, which expanded to a two-storey, bricks-and-mortar restaurant once the Victoria railway terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus) was built in the 1880s, bringing millions of migrants to Mumbai. For more than 175 years, the humble joint run by six generations of its founder Pancham Sharma's family has dished out piping hot plates of puri bhaji, a North Indian delicacy made of deep-fried wheat flour served with spiced and curried potatoes – and now priced at 35 rupees a plate. The quick-service restaurant has big sharing tables, so it's not uncommon to eat your meal alongside university students and taxi drivers. Puri bhaji aside, the restaurant also serves a mean thali (from 135 rupees) – a platter filled with vegetables, pulses, lentils and sweetmeats, which can be refilled on demand. Seasonal mango juice, aam ras, is also on the menu, while the chole bhature, pumpkin bhaji and shahi paneer are other dishes worth sampling. The haunt of Mumbai's Kolis or fishing community, Worli is one of the seven islands that originally made up Mumbai, much of which has now been connected and expanded by land reclamation. Despite its financial and industrial prowess, the city still provides a livelihood for the Kolis, who set off in their trawlers in the wee hours each morning to bring in the catch of the day. A tour of Worli Village allows you to watch the fishermen return home, to clean and dry their haul before the women take it to market. You can also stroll around the vibrant fishing dock, sample freshly cooked fried snacks and Mumbai's famous 'cutting chai' (so named because of the half-sized glasses it's served in), and learn about the city's maritime heritage. In the afternoon, when the market shuts for siesta time, head to the nearby Worli Fort, Golfa Devi temple or Japanese-Buddhist Nipponzan Myohoji temple. Should you prefer to visit with a tour guide, prices start from 750 rupees for a group of five, although – as with most purchases in mercantile Mumbai – haggling is highly recommended.
