The iconic Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan has been renamed ‘Ganatantra Mandap.’ It is traditionally used for important ceremonies and celebrations such as the presentation of National Awards.
- Ashok Hall, originally designed as a ballroom, will now be known as Ashok Mandap.
- According to the press release, name changes were carried out to align with India’s rich cultural heritage.
- According to the release, the term ‘Durbar,’ referring to an imperial court, became outdated after India transitioned to a republic, or ‘Ganatantra.’
- The concept of ‘Ganatantra’ is deeply rooted in Indian society since ancient times, making ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ an apt name for the venue.
- Renaming Ashok Hall to Ashok Mandap was intended to bring uniformity in language and remove traces of anglicization while upholding the key values associated with the word.
