Durbar Hall becomes Ganatantra Mandap at Rashtrapati Bhavan

The iconic Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall in Rashtrapati Bhavan, known for hosting various ceremonial functions, have been renamed Ganatantra Mandap and Ashok Mandap, respectively. The Durbar Hall, used for presenting national awards, now bears a name that aligns with India's republican values, as explained by the government in an official statement.

The term 'durbar', associated with the courts and assemblies of Indian rulers and the British, is considered outdated post-independence, while 'Ganatantra' (Republic) reflects India's long-standing societal traditions.Similarly, renaming Ashok Hall to Ashok Mandap aims to bring "uniformity in language and remove traces of anglicisation" while preserving the core values associated with the name Ashok. The government highlighted that 'Ashok' signifies being free from sorrow and is linked to Emperor Ashok, symbolizing unity and peaceful coexistence.

The name also references the Ashok tree, significant in Indian religious traditions and culture. The changes underscore a move towards embracing and highlighting India's cultural and historical roots in the names of these significant venues.