Presidency cities in India in the early 19th century were Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras. These cities played a significant role in the British colonial administration and were important centers of trade and commerce during that time.

1. Bombay:
- Bombay, now known as Mumbai, was one of the major presidency cities in India during the early 19th century.
- It was an important center for trade and commerce, particularly in cotton and opium.
- The British East India Company established its headquarters in Bombay, making it a crucial administrative and commercial hub.
- The city had a diverse population, including Europeans, Indians, and other communities, which contributed to its cosmopolitan nature.

2. Calcutta:
- Calcutta, now known as Kolkata, was another presidency city during that period.
- It served as the capital of British India until 1911.
- Calcutta was a major port city and an important center for trade and administration.
- It was known for its intellectual and cultural activities, with many educational institutions, libraries, and literary societies being established in the city.
- The city also played a significant role in the Indian independence movement, with several nationalist leaders emerging from Calcutta.

3. Madras:
- Madras, now known as Chennai, was the third presidency city in India during the early 19th century.
- It was a major trading center, particularly in textiles and spices.
- Madras was known for its British colonial architecture, with buildings like the Fort St. George and the High Court of Madras being prominent landmarks.
- The city had a vibrant cultural scene, with various art forms, including Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam dance, flourishing in Madras.

These three presidency cities were important centers of British colonial power in India. They played crucial roles in the administration, trade, and cultural development of the country during the early 19th century. Each city had its unique characteristics and contributed significantly to the overall colonial presence in India.