Option d is the correct answer Surat was called Babul Mecca (Gate of Mecca) because the pilgrimage to Makka started from Surat. It is an important seaport in the history of the world, during the medieval period. Important Tips The city of Surat: The origin of the city can be traced to the old Hindu town of Suryapur during 1500 - 1520 A.D., which was later colonised by the Brigus or the King from Sauvira on the banks of River Tapi. In 1759, The British rulers took its control from the Mughals till the beginning of the 20th century. The city is located on the river Tapi and has about 6 km long coastal belt along the Arabian Sea. Due to these reasons, the city emerged as an important trade centre and enjoyed prosperity through sea trade in the 16th, 17 th and 18 th centuries.