Mumbai to Delhi

Plans for the reclamation scheme in the south of Bombay from 1911.

1893 - The original islands of Bombay connected by bridges and causeways built as part of the Hornby Vellard Project.

1816 - "The island of Bombay, reduced from the original survey, undertaken by order of government." The map shows Bombay during the major reclamation work of the Hornby Vellard Project.

1750 - Map of Bombay before the start of the Hornby Vellard reclamation project that began in 1782.

The location of the original Seven Islands of Bombay that were merged to form the island of Salsette.

This map shows Greater Mumbai on Salsette. Two smaller islands were not included in the reclamation project, seen here to the south east of Mumbai.

The city of Mumbai is located at the tip of the island of Salsette, while to the north lies the residential area of Greater Mumbai.

Mumbai is nestled amongst the hills of Salsette. Many of the hills were demolished and used to reclaim land between the seven islands.

The coast of Salsette is indented with numerous inlets, many of these would have been the original joints between the seven islands

Much of Mumbai is built on reclaimed land. Reclamation continued until well after India gained independence in 1947, but was restricted by government in the 1970s.

This satellite image of Mumbai shows areas of land reclamation on the northeast and north sides of Salsette Island.

Salsette Island is the result of an extensive land reclamation project that joined seven islands together.

The Bandra Worli Sea Link View bridge connects the island of Worli with Mumbai.

c. 1890 - "Railway Station, Bombay". The station is an iconic symbol of colonial architecture in Mumbai.

The southern tip of Mumbai is home to the financial centre of the city, its ports and Mumbai Harbour.

Mumbai train station is an excellent example of the Victorian Gothic style architecture that can be seen across Mumbai, originating from the British colonial era.

c. 1905 - "Lendwa Fort Gate, Bombay, with elephant spikes to prevent elephants from battering them down".

The contrasting architectural styles reflects Mumbai's varied history as a powerful financial and commercial centre.

The Gateway of India and the famous Taj Mahal Palace hotel greet vessels as they arrive at Mumbai Harbour.

1883 - "Telegraph Office - General Post Office - Public Works and Secretariat in Bombay". The building was designed by British architect John Begg in 1902.

Mumbai is the commerce capital of India, home to many of the important organisations and companies that operate from the city.

The Imperial Towers in Mumbai are the tallest skyscrapers in India, at 249 metres high.

Mumbai is home to the largest number of skyscrapers in India, reflecting its importance as an economic centre.

The Gate of India represents the entrance to Mumbai at Mumbai Harbour. Built to commemorate the visit of King George V in 1911, it was completed in 1924.

1883 - "Great India Peninsula Railway Terminus in Bombay - Maharashtra - West India".

Jawaharlal Nehru Port is Mumbai’s major port, handling around 60% of India’s total containerised cargo.

A wall of Bollywood film posters. In the region of 800 Bollywood films are made in Mumbai each year.

Mumbaikars celebrate a wedding with music and dancing in the streets.

A family celebrate the festival of Holi in Mumbai. The city welcomes all cultures and festivals which are celebrated by all regardless of their religion.

Mumbai celebrates many festivals from different cultures and is known for its colourful festivities.

Bollywood films are famous for their elaborate dance scenes and bright colours.

Bollywood performances are replicated across the world and influences music and films across the globe.

A new Bollywood film on show at a Mumbai cinema, the heart of the Indian film industry.

Bollywood films have influenced many aspects of Indian culture, including music.

Leading actors film a scene at the Bandra Bandstand in Mumbai.

A Mumbai street set up for filming for a new Bollywood film.

Dancers perform in the streets during filming for the Bollywood film 'Dance Baby Dance'.

Bollywood posters are found across India, reflecting the influence the films have on Indian culture.