Rashtrapati Bhavan Renames Durbar And Ashok Halls: Embracing Indian Heritage

President Droupadi Murmu renamed 'Durbar Hall' to 'Ganatantra Mandap' and 'Ashok Hall' to 'Ashok Mandap' in Rashtrapati Bhavan, aiming to reflect Indian cultural values and ethos.

President Droupadi Murmu has renamed two significant halls in Rashtrapati Bhavan. 'Durbar Hall' is now 'Ganatantra Mandap', and 'Ashok Hall' is 'Ashok Mandap'.

The change aims to reflect Indian cultural values and ethos within the stately building.

Photo Credit: rashtrapatibhavan.gov.in

"Rashtrapati Bhavan, the office and residence of India's President, symbolises the nation and is an invaluable heritage for the people. Continuous efforts are being made to make it more accessible to people. There has been a consistent endeavour to make the ambience of the Rashtrapati Bhavan reflective of Indian cultural values and ethos," stated Rashtrapati Bhavan, as reported by Hindustan Times.

Reflecting Indian Cultural Values

The term 'Durbar' refers to courts of Indian rulers and the British Raj, losing relevance after India became a republic. "'Durbar Hall' is the venue for important ceremonies like National Awards presentations. The concept of 'Ganatantra’ is deeply rooted in Indian society since ancient times, making 'Ganatantra Mandap’ an apt name," explained the statement.

The renaming aligns with the BJP government's efforts to eliminate colonial remnants from India. The press release highlighted that 'Durbar' lost its significance post-republic era, hence the new name reflects India's republican values.

Significance of Ashok

'Ashok Hall' was originally a ballroom. The word 'Ashok’ signifies someone free from suffering or sorrow. It also refers to Emperor Ashok, symbolising unity and peaceful coexistence. The National Emblem of India features Ashok's lion capital from Sarnath, as reported by Hindustan Times.

The statement elaborated that renaming 'Ashok Hall’ as 'Ashok Mandap’ brings uniformity in language while removing traces of anglicisation. It upholds key values associated with 'Ashok', including its significance in Indian religious traditions, arts, and culture.

This move by President Murmu aims to ensure that Rashtrapati Bhavan's environment resonates with India's rich cultural heritage. By renaming these halls, there is an effort to align more closely with traditional Indian values and historical context.