Yes, many Indians still refer to Mumbai as Bombay, as the name Bombay was used prior to its official renaming in 1995. The term may be used interchangeably by people based on personal preference or historical familiarity.
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Yes, many Indians still refer to Mumbai as Bombay, even though the city’s name was officially changed in 1995. This continued usage of the term “Bombay” can be attributed to various reasons such as personal preference, historical familiarity, and cultural significance. Being a native Indian with practical knowledge and experience, I can provide more insights into this topic.
The decision to rename Bombay as Mumbai was made in 1995, with the aim of reclaiming the city’s pre-colonial identity. The name “Mumbai” is derived from the patron goddess “Mumba Devi” of the original inhabitants of the region, the Koli fishing community. The change in name was seen as a way to honor the city’s rich cultural heritage and foster a sense of local identity.
However, despite the official renaming, the usage of “Bombay” continues to persist among various sections of society. This is primarily because the term “Bombay” was deeply ingrained in the popular consciousness for many decades prior to the renaming. It was the name used during the British colonial period and was widely recognized around the world. Due to this historical familiarity, many older residents, as well as those who grew up before the renaming, still use the term “Bombay” out of habit or sentimental attachment.
Additionally, personal preference plays a role in the continued usage of “Bombay.” Some individuals simply find the name more appealing or easier to pronounce, and therefore, choose to stick with it. There is a certain charm and nostalgia associated with the name, which resonates with many people.
To provide further context, here are some interesting facts about Mumbai and the name change:
- Mumbai is the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra and is the financial, commercial, and entertainment hub of the country.
- The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times and has experienced various cultural influences, including Portuguese and British colonial rule.
- The renaming of Bombay to Mumbai was part of a larger movement to rename several Indian cities to reflect their local identities and cultural heritage.
- The name change was not without controversy, as it faced opposition from some sections of society who believed it was unnecessary or aimed at appeasing political sentiments.
- The change in name officially took effect on March 1, 1996, and all government agencies and institutions were mandated to use the new name in their official communications.
In conclusion, while Mumbai is the official and widely accepted name of the city, many Indians still refer to it as Bombay. This is a result of historical familiarity, personal preference, and cultural significance attached to the name. Ultimately, the choice of using either term may vary based on individual preferences, but both names refer to the vibrant and bustling metropolis on the western coast of India.
To quote renowned journalist and author Mark Tully, who has extensively covered Indian culture and society: “Names are very important in India because the name often carries a great deal of national pride and identity. Bombay or Mumbai, it is the same great city!”
Video related “Do Indians still call Mumbai Bombay?”
The video delves into the reasons behind the name change from Bombay to Mumbai. It explains that Mumbai is an older name for the city, derived from the temple of the Kali goddess, while Bombay was given by Portuguese explorer Gasper Correa and later anglicized. The name change in 1995 was a way for the political party in Maharashtra to celebrate the city’s heritage. This change is part of a larger trend in India, with other cities undergoing name changes as well.
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Slate also said "The push to rename Bombay was part of a larger movement to strengthen Marathi identity in the Maharashtra region." While Mumbai is still referred to as Bombay by some of its residents and by some Indians from other regions, mention of the city by a name other than Mumbai has been controversial.
In addition, people ask
Do people in Mumbai still call it Bombay?
As a response to this: That name is believed to be an Anglicized version of the city’s name from when it was occupied by the Portuguese — "Bom Bahia," which means "good bay." Both Bombay and Mumbai are now used interchangeably by locals during casual conversation.
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Also asked, Should I say Mumbai or Bombay?
The older name of “Bombay” was changed to “Mumbai” in recent years, many people across the world are used to old name “Bombay”, therefore they still call Mumbai as Bombay.
Why is Mumbai no longer called Bombay? As an answer to this: The city’s official name change, to Mumbai from Bombay happened when regional political party Shiv Sena came into power in 1995. The Shiv Sena saw Bombay as a legacy of British colonialism and wanted the city’s name to reflect its Maratha heritage, hence renaming it to pay tribute to the goddess Mumbadevi.
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Then, Is it illegal to call Mumbai Bombay? Well, it really won’t make a difference. Those who call it Bombay, will continue to do so and those who prefer Mumbai, will continue to call it that. Just that the official name on signboards or in public places would get changed causing no difference whatsoever to the common man/woman/child.