The government has renamed the iconic Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall in Rashtrapati Bhavan, known for hosting numerous ceremonial functions. Durbar Hall will now be called Ganatantra Mandap, and Ashok Hall has been renamed Ashok Mandap.
The new name Ganatantra Mandap reflects the shift from the term 'durbar', historically associated with the courts of Indian rulers and the British colonial administration, which lost relevance after India became a Republic, or 'Ganatantra'. The name 'Ganatantra' underscores India's long-standing democratic traditions, making it a more appropriate designation.
Similarly, Ashok Hall's renaming to Ashok Mandap aims to remove anglicized traces while maintaining cultural significance. The name 'Ashok' represents freedom from suffering and sorrow and refers to Emperor Ashok, symbolizing unity and peaceful coexistence. This name also ties to the National Emblem of India, the lion capital of Ashok from Sarnath, and holds importance in Indian religious and cultural traditions.
The government stated that these new names better reflect India's historical and cultural identity while upholding its democratic values.
