Explanation: The question pertains to the current official names of four cities that have undergone significant name changes. Understanding these changes is crucial for students of Indian and world geography, as it reflects broader cultural and political shifts.
1. **Dar es Salaam to Dodoma**: Dar es Salaam, originally the capital of Tanzania, was renamed to Dodoma in 1996. This change was part of a political decision to move the capital from the coastal city to a more central location, reflecting a desire to decentralize power and promote national unity.
2. **Salisbury to Harare**: Salisbury, the former capital of Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), was renamed Harare in 1982. This renaming was a significant move towards decolonization and national identity, as Harare is a Shona name meaning "a meeting place" or "a gathering place."
3. **Madras to Chennai**: Madras, a city in India, was officially renamed Chennai in 1996. This change was part of a broader movement to rename cities with their traditional Tamil names, reflecting a resurgence of Tamil cultural identity and pride.
4. **Bombay to Mumbai**: Bombay, another city in India, was renamed Mumbai in 1995. This renaming was also part of a cultural and linguistic movement to use the Marathi name, Mumbai, which means "city of the goddess Mumbadevi."
These name changes are not just administrative; they are deeply rooted in the historical and cultural contexts of the regions. Understanding these changes helps in comprehending the broader socio-political dynamics of the countries involved. For students preparing for competitive examinations, it is essential to keep track of such changes as they often appear in questions related to geography and current affairs.
In summary, the correct answer is (A) Dodoma, Harare, Chennai, and Mumbai, as these are the current official names of the cities listed in the question.