Mumbai, the City of Dreams, has a rich and diverse history that dates back centuries. From its transformation from seven islands to becoming India’s financial capital, Mumbai has witnessed colonial rule, trade revolutions, industrial growth, and significant historical events.
If you love history or are preparing for GK quizzes, competitive exams (UPSC, MPSC, SSC, Banking), or just want to test your knowledge, this Mumbai History Quiz is perfect for you!
📌 Historical GK Quiz on Mumbai: 15 Questions with Answers
1. What was the original name of Mumbai before the British renamed it Bombay?
✅ Answer: Bombaim (Portuguese name, derived from “Bom Bahia” meaning “Good Bay”)
2. How many islands originally made up Mumbai?
✅ Answer: Seven islands
3. Which European power controlled Mumbai before the British?
✅ Answer: Portuguese
4. In which year did the British East India Company take over Mumbai?
✅ Answer: 1661, as part of the dowry of Catherine of Braganza, who married King Charles II of England.
5. What is the name of Mumbai’s most famous railway station, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
✅ Answer: Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST), formerly Victoria Terminus.
6. Which famous movement led by Mahatma Gandhi was launched in Mumbai in 1942?
✅ Answer: Quit India Movement, launched at August Kranti Maidan (Gowalia Tank Maidan).
7. When did Bombay officially get renamed Mumbai?
✅ Answer: 1995
8. Who were the original inhabitants of Mumbai?
✅ Answer: The Koli fishing community, who worshipped Mumbadevi, after whom the city was named.
9. Which landmark was built to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to Mumbai?
✅ Answer: Gateway of India, built in 1911.
10. Which famous caves near Mumbai are a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
✅ Answer: Elephanta Caves
11. What was the first railway line in India, and when was it inaugurated?
✅ Answer: Mumbai to Thane, inaugurated on April 16, 1853.
12. Which Mumbai-based hotel was attacked during the 26/11 terrorist attacks?
✅ Answer: Taj Mahal Palace Hotel
13. Which famous marketplace in Mumbai was built in 1869 and is now called Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Market?
✅ Answer: Crawford Market
14. Which major explosion occurred in Mumbai’s docks in 1944, causing massive destruction?
✅ Answer: Bombay Dock Explosion
15. Which popular promenade in South Mumbai is called the “Queen’s Necklace”?
✅ Answer: Marine Drive
📚 Why Should You Take a Mumbai History Quiz?
✔ Helps you prepare for competitive exams like UPSC, MPSC, SSC, and Banking.
✔ Improves general knowledge for quizzes and discussions.
✔ Explores Mumbai’s historical journey from a fishing village to a metropolis.
✔ Enhances awareness of important historical events in India’s financial capital.
❓ FAQs About Mumbai History GK Quiz
Q1: Why was Bombay renamed Mumbai?
✅ Answer: The name was changed in 1995 to honor Mumbadevi, the goddess worshipped by the Koli community, the original inhabitants of the region.
Q2: Which are Mumbai’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
✅ Answer:
- Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST)
- Elephanta Caves
- Victorian Gothic & Art Deco Buildings
Q3: What were the original seven islands of Mumbai?
✅ Answer:
- Colaba
- Little Colaba (Old Woman’s Island)
- Mazagaon
- Parel
- Bombay Island
- Mahim
- Worli
These islands were later merged through land reclamation to form modern Mumbai.
Q4: Who built the Gateway of India, and why?
✅ Answer: It was built in 1911 to welcome King George V and Queen Mary during their visit to India.
Q5: What was Mumbai’s role in the Quit India Movement?
✅ Answer: Mumbai was the center of the Quit India Movement (1942), where Mahatma Gandhi called for British withdrawal from India at Gowalia Tank Maidan (August Kranti Maidan).
🎯 Final Thoughts
Mumbai’s history is rich with culture, trade, and political movements that shaped modern India. Whether you’re a history buff, a student, or preparing for exams, this Mumbai History GK Quiz is a great way to test your knowledge.
💬 How many questions did you get right? Share your score in the comments! 👇
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