Rashtrapati Bhawan: Another Hall Gets Renamed in Modi Government; Check the New Names

In another name-changing decision taken during the tenure of the Modi Government, two halls of the Rashtrapati Bhawan got their names changed. President Droupadi Murmu has renamed two significant Rashtrapati Bhavan halls, ‘Durbar Hall’ and ‘Ashok Hall’, as ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Mandap’ respectively. 

The decision was made to ensure that the grand building will now reflect Indian cultural values and traditions with these new names. Previously, the government had renamed the Mughal Garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan to 'Amrit Udyan.'

What Did the Rashtrapati Bhawan Say?

The Rashtrapati Bhavan, serving as both the office and residence of the President of India, symbolizes the nation and is an invaluable heritage of the people. Continuous efforts are being made to make it more accessible to the public. There has been a consistent effort to ensure that the ambiance of the Rashtrapati Bhavan reflects Indian cultural values and ethos, according to a statement from the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The statement further added, "Accordingly, President Droupadi Murmu is pleased to rename two of the important halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan – namely, ‘Durbar Hall’ and ‘Ashok Hall’ – as ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Mandap’ respectively.”

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Why the Name ‘Ganatantra Mandap’?

"Durbar Hall" is the place in the Rashtrapati Bhawan where important events and celebrations of the country, including the presentation of National Awards, take place.

• The name "Durbar" refers to courts and assemblies of Indian rulers and the British.
• It became outdated after India became a Republic, known as 'Ganatantra.'
• The concept of 'Ganatantra' has deep roots in Indian society from ancient times.
• Renaming the venue to 'Ganatantra Mandap' is considered appropriate.

Why the Name ‘Ashok Mandap’?

Originally known as Ashok Hall, Ashok Mandap was a ballroom. According to the statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhawan, the hall was named ‘Ashok’ because:

• The term "Ashok" means "free from all sufferings" or "bereft of any sorrow."
• The name "Ashoka" also refers to Emperor Ashok, symbolizing peace and harmonious coexistence.
• Moreover, Ashok's lion capital from Sarnath is the National Emblem of the Republic of India.
• Furthermore, the term ‘Ashok’ relates to the Ashok tree, which holds great significance in Indian religious traditions, arts, and culture.
• Renaming "Ashok Hall" to "Ashok Mandap" maintains the important values of "Ashok.

The statement further adds, "Renaming 'Ashok Hall' as 'Ashok Mandap' maintains the important values associated with the word 'Ashok' while bringing uniformity in language and eliminating any indications of anglicization.

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