On July 25, Indian President Droupadi Murmu announced the renaming of two halls in the Rashtrapati Bhavan, the President's official residence. The ‘Durbar Hall’ and ‘Ashok Hall’ will now be known as ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Mandap’ respectively. This change represents Indian cultural values and ethos in the names of these prominent spaces.

Durbar Hall, historically used for important ceremonies such as the presentation of national awards, and Ashok Hall only reserved for special events, will be now referred to by their new names. The renaming is part of efforts to align the Rashtrapati Bhavan's environment with Indian heritage and cultural values.

Historical Context and Significance of Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall

In a statement, the Rashtrapati Bhavan explained the reasoning behind the renaming. "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 effort to make the ambience of the Rashtrapati Bhavan reflective of Indian cultural values and ethos," the statement read.

Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall
Image Source: संस्कृति विभाग

The term 'Durbar' was highlighted as one that referred to the courts and assemblies of Indian rulers and the British colonial administration. Following India’s transition to a Republic, the term has become less relevant. The new name, ‘Ganatantra Mandap,’ signifies the republic nature of the Indian state, aligning with the Hindi term for a republic, "Ganatantra."

For Ashok Hall, the move is aimed at removing "traces of anglicisation." The renaming to ‘Ashok Mandap’ aims to standardise the language and uphold the values associated with the name Ashok, without the influence of colonial terminology.

This renaming follows a pattern of similar changes in the Rashtrapati Bhavan. In January of the previous year, the Mughal Gardens were renamed as 'Amrit Udyan,' with the celebrations of India's 75th Independence Day. At the time, Rashtrapati Bhavan stated, "On the occasion of the celebrations of 75 years of Independence as 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', the President of India has given the Amrit Udyan to Rashtrapati Bhavan's Mughal Gardens." The garden is typically open to the public from February to March when the flowers are in full bloom.

Additionally, in 2022, the pathway from the Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate, formerly known as Rajpath, was renamed Kartavya Path. The central government explained it as: "It symbolises a shift from erstwhile Rajpath being an icon of power to Kartavya Path being an example of public ownership and empowerment."

These changes show efforts to decolonize public spaces, promoting a stronger connection with India's cultural and historical roots. The renaming of Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall is another step in the same direction, reflecting a commitment to preserving and promoting Indian values and heritage in the nation's most important public spaces.

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