Which one of the following Indian cities was labelled as 'Urbs Prima in Indis' after the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 and its links with the world economy ?

The Latin phrase 'Urbs Prima in Indis' (The First City in India) was used to describe Bombay (now Mumbai) during the late 19th century. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 fundamentally altered global trade routes by providing a direct link between the Mediterranean Sea and the Indian Ocean. This made Bombay the closest major Indian port to Europe, drastically reducing shipping time and costs.

Consequently, Bombay became the primary hub for India's integration into the world economy, particularly through the export of raw cotton. This economic boom transformed the city's infrastructure and architecture, leading the British to label it the premier city of India. While Calcutta was the political capital, Bombay's commercial dominance and its role as the 'Gateway of India' earned it this prestigious title.