India, a land of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, is home to several vibrant cities serving as the states’ capitals. Indian state capitals reflect its rich history and cultural heritage. Unravelling these state capitals’ origins and significance provides fascinating insights into the tapestry of India’s past.
Do you wish to know what each India capital name signifies? This article explores the etymology and symbolism behind the names of five prominent capital cities in India.
Delhi
Delhi is the capital of India, which holds a significant place in the annals of history. The name “Delhi” finds its roots in various historical sources. One popular theory suggests that the term originated from the word “Dhillika,” which refers to a city built by the Tomar Rajputs in the 8th century. Another theory proposes that the name Delhi is derived from the Prakrit word “Dhilli,” meaning “threshold” or “gateway.” Delhi’s name encapsulates its role as a cultural and political crossroads, representing the confluence of diverse influences throughout history.
Mumbai
Mumbai, the financial powerhouse and capital of Maharashtra, has a name that carries an intriguing history. The city’s original name was “Bombay,” which is rooted in Portuguese. The Portuguese called the city “Bom Bahia,” meaning “good bay”, due to its natural harbour. Over time, the name evolved to “Bombay” during the British colonial era. In 1995, the city was renamed Mumbai, which draws inspiration from the goddess Mumba Devi, the patron deity of the original inhabitants, the Koli fishing community. The renaming aimed to restore the city’s indigenous identity, emphasising its cultural roots and reclaiming its heritage.
Kolkata
The city of West Bengal is Kolkata, and its name reflects its historical significance and cultural heritage. The city was formerly known as Calcutta, an anglicised version of its original name, Kalikata. The term “Kalikata” can be broken down into two components:
- “Kali”
- Referring to the Hindu goddess “Kali” and “Kata.”
- Meaning “landing stage” or “quay” in Bengali
Legend has it that the city was established after the goddess Kali’s triumph over a demon in the area. Thus, Kolkata’s name symbolises its deep-rooted association with worshipping the divine feminine and its status as an important spiritual centre.
Chennai
The capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, has a name that embodies its ancient history and cultural legacy. The term “Chennapattanam” is believed to have originated from the Tamil words “Chennai,” meaning “beautiful,” and “Pattana,” meaning “town” or “settlement.” The name signifies Chennai’s reputation as a city of beauty, renowned for its scenic beaches, temples, and traditional Tamil architecture. Chennai also pays homage to its colonial past, as it was anglicised as “Madras” during British rule before being officially renamed in 1996.
Bangalore
Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka, has a name that combines ancient and modern influences. The etymology of “Bengal uru” is uncertain, but one popular theory suggests that it is derived from the words “benda kaalu” and “our,” meaning “boiled beans” and “town”, respectively. According to the legend, an old woman offered a meal of boiled beans to a wandering Hoysala king, who was so pleased with her hospitality that he named the town “Bengaluru” in her honour. Another theory indicates the name is derived from Kannada words “benda kaalu” and “honour,” meaning “boiled beans” and “fountain”, respectively, referring to a story where a town was founded around a boiling mud fountain.
Conclusion
Each India capital name holds the essence of the country’s rich history, cultural tapestry, and linguistic diversity. Each capital’s name tells a unique story from the ancient city of Delhi, representing crossroads and gateways, to Mumbai’s transition from Bombay, embracing its indigenous roots. Kolkata’s association with the goddess Kali and Chennai’s depiction of beauty and tradition showcase these cities’ spiritual and artistic heritage.
