President Droupadi Murmu has renamed two significant halls in Rashtrapati Bhavan, formerly known as ‘Durbar Hall’ and ‘Ashok Hall,’ to ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Mandap’ respectively. This decision aims to align the ambience of the stately building with Indian cultural values and ethos.
“Rashtrapati Bhavan, the office and 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,” stated the Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The renaming is part of the BJP government’s ongoing efforts to remove colonial remnants from the country’s institutions. The term ‘Durbar,’ historically linked to the courts of Indian rulers and the British Raj, was deemed outdated in the context of a republican India. “‘Durbar Hall’ is the venue for important ceremonies such as the presentation of National Awards. The term ‘Durbar’ lost its relevance after India became a Republic, that is, ‘Ganatantra’. The concept of ‘Ganatantra’ is deeply rooted in Indian society since ancient times, making ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ an apt name for the venue,” the statement explained.
Originally a ballroom, ‘Ashok Hall’ has been renamed ‘Ashok Mandap.’ The name ‘Ashok’ symbolizes someone who is ‘free from all sufferings’ or ‘bereft of any sorrow,’ and also refers to Emperor Ashok, a figure of unity and peaceful coexistence. The National Emblem of India, the lion capital from Sarnath, is associated with Emperor Ashok. The term ‘Ashok’ also refers to the Ashok tree, which holds significant importance in Indian religious traditions, arts, and culture. The renaming to ‘Ashok Mandap’ aims to bring uniformity in language and eliminate traces of anglicisation while upholding the key values associated with the word ‘Ashok.’
This move is the latest in a series of steps taken by the BJP government to shed the country’s colonial legacy.
