“One does not travel to discover new landscapes, but to have new experiences and meet new people… and maybe get gloriously lost in the labyrinthine alleys of a Mumbai local.”
Ruskin Bond ( with a touch of creative license;) )
Mumbai’s lifeline, the local train network, is a symphony of sights, sounds, and… station announcements? While we might tune out the robotic “Agli station” pronouncements during our daily commutes, these station names hold a treasure trove of stories waiting to be unearthed. So, ditch the destination woes for a minute, and let’s embark on a fun etymology expedition through some of these iconic stations!
1. Churchgate: Where the Past Met the Tracks
Our first stop is Churchgate, a station named as a historical homage. Back in the day, this bustling hub was guarded by a grand “Church Gate,” one of three entrances to the Fort area. Though the gate itself was demolished in the 1860s, its legacy lives on, a reminder of the city’s rich past. Fun fact: Did you know the first train from Churchgate departs at a saintly hour of 4 AM? Talk about dedication!
2. Charni Road: Grazing Grounds or Borrowed Name?
Charni Road throws up two interesting theories for its name. The first is a literal translation of “Charni” meaning “grazing land.” Apparently, the area was once a haven for cattle and horses, earning its name quite literally. The second theory suggests “Charni” or “Chendni” was borrowed from a locality near Thane, where many residents migrated to Girgaum, bringing their hometown’s name with them. Moo-ve over cattle theory, we like the idea of friendly neighborhood migration better!
3. Matunga: Where Elephants Once Roamed
Hold onto your trunks, history buffs! Matunga’s name is believed to be derived from the Marathi word “matang,” meaning elephant. Legend has it that around the 12th century, this area housed the mighty tuskers of Raja Bhimdev’s army. While the elephants might have moved on, the name remains, a testament to the region’s fascinating past.
4. Goregaon: The Milky Way (or Was it a Family?)
Goregaon’s name sparks a playful debate. Some believe it’s named after the politically prominent Gore family, while others claim it translates to “white village” (gore-gaon) due to its historical significance as a milk-producing hub. Udderly fascinating, isn’t it? Regardless of the origin, Goregaon’s name evokes a sense of both power and pastoral charm.
5. Nalasopara: A Port City Steeped in History
This station boasts a name steeped in ancient lore. Nalasopara is believed to be the successor of “Shurparaka” or “Sopara,” one of India’s oldest port towns, dating back over a millennium! Some scholars even suggest it might be the legendary “Ophir” from the Bible’s Book of Kings. Talk about a station with serious historical cred!
6. Kandivali: A Quarry Cut Above
Kandivali, once known as Khandolee, might have derived its name from “khand,” meaning a sharp projection of rock. This theory aligns perfectly with the presence of historical stone quarries in the area. So, the next time you’re at Kandivali station, remember, you might be standing on a geological landmark!
7. Kurla: From Crabs to Concrete Jungle
Our last stop is Kurla, a bustling station with a surprising etymology. The name originates from “kurli,” the local term for crabs, which were apparently abundant in the area’s marshes before it became a bustling suburb. Who knew this concrete jungle was once a haven for these fascinating crustaceans?
So, the next time you find yourself on a Mumbai local, take a moment to appreciate the stories woven into the very names of the stations. After all, a little history never hurt anyone, especially when it’s delivered with a dash of fun!