Rashtrapati Bhavan Renames 'Durbar Hall' and 'Ashoka Hall' as Ganatantra Mandap and Ashoka Mandap

Tags: National News

Rashtrapati Bhavan, the office and residence of the President of India, represents national heritage and is dedicated to showcasing Indian cultural values.

An Overview of the News

• Efforts are ongoing to enhance the accessibility and cultural reflection of Rashtrapati Bhavan.

• President Droupadi Murmu has approved the renaming of two significant halls in Rashtrapati Bhavan:

  • Durbar Hall is now renamed as Ganatantra Mandap.

  • Ashok Hall is now renamed as Ashok Mandap.

Reasons for Renaming:

• Ganatantra Mandap:

  • Durbar Hall was used for ceremonies and national awards.

  • The term "Durbar" refers to the courts of Indian rulers and British colonial assemblies.

  • "Ganatantra" means republic, reflecting India's democratic ethos, making it a fitting name.

• Ashok Mandap:

  • Ashok Hall was originally a ballroom.

  • The term "Ashok" symbolizes freedom from suffering and unity, associated with Emperor Ashok and the National Emblem of India.

  • The name "Ashok Mandap" aligns with Indian cultural and religious significance and removes traces of anglicisation.