It is well known that Mumbai was known as Bombay before being renamed in December 1995. What was the name given to Bombay by the Portuguese before it passed into the hands of the British?

The Portuguese named Bombay as 'Bom Bahia,' which means 'Good Bay' in Portuguese, when they acquired these islands in the 16th century. This name reflected the excellent natural harbor that made Mumbai strategically important for maritime trade. The British later anglicized 'Bom Bahia' to 'Bombay' when they gained control of the territory.