In a significant move to reflect Indian cultural values and ethos, President Droupadi Murmu has renamed two prominent halls in Rashtrapati Bhavan. The historic ‘Durbar Hall’ is now ‘Ganatantra Mandap,’ and ‘Ashok Hall’ has been renamed ‘Ashok Mandap.’
The decision is part of an ongoing effort to make Rashtrapati Bhavan, the official residence and office of the President of India, more representative of Indian heritage. A statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan emphasized the aim to enhance the accessibility and cultural reflection of the stately building.
Historical Context and Significance
The term ‘Durbar’ traditionally referred to the courts and assemblies of Indian rulers and the British Raj. The Rashtrapati Bhavan statement noted that the term had lost its relevance after India became a republic. The new name, ‘Ganatantra Mandap,’ emphasizes India’s identity as a republic, rooted in the ancient Indian concept of ‘Ganatantra’ or republic.
Maintaining Historical Legacy
‘Ashok Hall’ has been renamed ‘Ashok Mandap,’ maintaining its historical significance associated with Emperor Ashoka, a symbol of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Government’s Broader Initiative
This renaming is the latest step by the BJP government in its ongoing effort to shed the remnants of India’s colonial past from public spaces and institutions. The press release clarified that terms like ‘Durbar’ are considered outdated in the context of India’s modern republican status.
Cultural Relevance
The renaming reflects a consistent effort to ensure that the Rashtrapati Bhavan mirrors Indian cultural values. It aligns with broader government initiatives to make Indian heritage and ethos more prominent in the nation’s symbols and public buildings.
Statements from Rashtrapati Bhavan
“Rashtrapati Bhavan, the office and the residence of the President of India, is a symbol of the nation and an invaluable heritage of 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,” the Rashtrapati Bhavan said in a statement.
Conclusion
The renaming of ‘Durbar Hall’ to ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Hall’ to ‘Ashok Mandap’ marks a significant step towards decolonizing the Indian presidential residence and reinforcing India’s cultural identity. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to celebrating and preserving India’s rich cultural heritage.
