Why did Surat decline as a major port in the 18th century?

The decline was due to the silting of the Tapi river and the rise of Bombay (Mumbai) as the preferred base for the British East India Company.

Why Surat was called Babul Mecca? (2001 PYQ)

ID: MED_MUG_2001_26 Ref: Standard Educational Reference

Which among the following ports was called Babul Mecca (Gate of Mecca) during the Mughal Period?

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Correct Option: D

Surat was known as 'Babul Mecca' (Gate of Mecca) during the Mughal period because it was the principal port from which Hajj pilgrims sailed to Mecca. It was also the empire's most vital center for international sea trade.