Explanations:The city of Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a significant urban center located in the eastern part of India. It was established by the British East India Company in the 17th century as a trading post and has since grown to become one of the largest and most important cities in India. The city is situated on the banks of the Hooghly River, which is a distributary of the Ganges River. The Hooghly River flows into the Bay of Bengal, which is a large body of water that forms the northeastern part of the Indian Ocean.
The Bay of Bengal is a crucial geographical feature for understanding the location of Kolkata. It is a marginal sea of the Indian Ocean, bounded by India and Bangladesh to the west and north, and Myanmar (Burma) and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the east. The Bay of Bengal is one of the largest bays in the world and is an important waterway for maritime trade and transportation.
The British East India Company chose the location of Kolkata for several reasons. The site was strategically advantageous for trade, as it provided access to the rich hinterland of Bengal and the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta. The Hooghly River offered a natural harbor, which was essential for the company's maritime activities. The fertile land around the city also supported agriculture, which was important for the company's economic interests.
It is important to note that the other options provided in the question are incorrect. Mumbai, located on the western coast of India, is situated on the Arabian Sea, not the Bay of Bengal. Chennai, located on the southeastern coast of India, is also near the Bay of Bengal, but it is not the city that the British East India Company built as a port city. The correct answer is "Bengal," as Kolkata is located in the state of West Bengal, which borders the Bay of Bengal.
Understanding the geographical context of Kolkata is essential for comprehending its historical and economic significance. The city's location on the Bay of Bengal has played a crucial role in its development as a major port and commercial center. This knowledge is important for students studying Indian geography and history, as well as for those preparing for competitive examinations that cover these topics.