Raj Bhavan modifies and renames "Lok Bhavan"

A grand colonial building that once stood behind high walls and heavy gates has truly become the people’s home. In a historic move, the Ministry of Home Affairs has renamed all Raj Bhavans and Raj Niwas across India as “Lok Bhavan” and “Lok Niwas” with effect from November 25, 2025. In West Bengal, the iconic Raj Bhavan in Kolkata, which started its journey as “Jana Raj Bhavan” in 2023, will now permanently carry the name "Lok Bhavan". The change marks the end of the old “royal” tag and celebrates the idea that these grand houses belong to every citizen, not just the powerful.

The story began on March 27, 2023, when President Droupadi Murmu handed over the symbolic key of Raj Bhavan to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee at the request of Governor Dr C V Ananda Bose. From that day, the gates opened wide for common people. Students, farmers, artists, victims of violence, and survivors of natural disasters started walking in freely. Over the past three years, Lok Bhavan (then called Jana Raj Bhavan) rushed to help people during floods, riots, and personal tragedies, earning the trust of millions who once saw it only as a distant, scary palace.

The nationwide renaming aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat, where every institution feels close to the people. From North India to South India, every Governor’s house will now proudly display the name Lok Bhavan. In Kolkata, the change is extra special because West Bengal already showed the way with its people-first approach. The grand gates will stay open, the lights will keep burning for those in need, and the building will continue to serve as a warm home for every Indian heart.