The Largest City in India Before Independence: Kolkata

When discussing the cities of India before its independence in 1947, one city stands out as the largest and the heart of the country during the British colonial period: Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta. Kolkata was the most prominent city in India, with Mumbai (formerly known as Bombay) taking a distant second. Let's delve into the history and significance of these cities.

The Dominance of Kolkata (Calcutta)

Before the partition of India in 1947, Kolkata (then known as Calcutta) was unequivocally the largest city in the country. Its strategic and economic importance during the British colonial period made it a central hub. In fact, Kolkata served as the capital of British India until 1911, when the capital was shifted to Delhi. This shift, however, did not diminish Kolkata's significance as the largest and most populous city in the country.

Population Data and Insights

Insights into the demographics and urban landscape of India before independence can be found in the database released by the Census of India in 2017. This comprehensive resource provides data on the population of thousands of Indian cities since 1901. According to this data, in 1947, Kolkata asserted its dominance with a population of around 4.5 million. In contrast, Mumbai (Bombay) was a distant second in terms of population with a significantly smaller figure.

Significance During British Rule

During the British colonial period, Kolkata was not just the largest city but also played a crucial role in shaping the administrative, commercial, and cultural life of the country. Its status as the capital of British India until 1911 underscored its strategic importance. The city was the center of political and economic activities, and its rich cultural heritage continues to be celebrated even today.

Comparative Urban Landscape

While Kolkata was the largest city, Mumbai (Bombay) was still a vibrant and growing city. Mumbai's development during this period was oriented towards trade and industry, which made it a significant urban center in its own right. However, its population was far smaller compared to Kolkata at the time of independence and partition.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Kolkata in Indian History

The prominence of Kolkata before independence is a testament to its enduring cultural legacy and its role in shaping the future of modern India. Even after the partition and the subsequent independence of the country, Kolkata continued to be a focal point for culture, education, and politics. Its status as the largest city in India until a later period reflects its significance and the challenges it faced during the colonial era.

Related Keywords and Topics

Kolkata: The city's rich history and cultural significance during British rule Calcutta: The evolution and transition of the city's name Mumbai: Development of Bombay as a major urban center

For more detailed information on the urban development and demographics of India during this period, you can refer to the Census of India 2017 report.