Mumbai, formerly known as Bombay, has a rich history shaped by multiple colonial powers, including the Portuguese and the British. Originally a cluster of seven islands, it was developed into a major port city by the British East India Company in the 17th and 18th centuries. Over time, land reclamation projects transformed it into a single landmass, laying the foundation for its growth into a commercial hub. The city’s colonial past is reflected in its architecture, particularly in South Mumbai, where Victorian Gothic and Art Deco buildings dominate the skyline. Landmarks such as the Gateway of India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus stand as symbols of this era. The latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable example of Victorian Gothic architecture blended with Indian elements. Mumbai also played a significant role in India’s independence movement and later emerged as the country’s economic powerhouse. Its heritage is not just architectural but also industrial and cultural, reflecting its journey from a colonial port to a global metropolis.