Names of iconic Ashok Hall, Durbar Hall in Rashtrapati Bhavan changed

The names of two iconic halls at the Rashtrapati Bhavan were changed on Thursday (July 25) from ‘Durbar Hall’ and ‘Ashok Hall’ to ‘Ganatantra Mandap’ and ‘Ashok Mandap’ respectively.

"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 the Indian cultural values and ethos," the president's secretariat said in a statement.

Why change names?

It said that President Droupadi Murmu was pleased to rename two of the important halls where ceremonial functions are held.

'Durbar Hall' is the venue of important ceremonies and celebrations such as the presentation of National Awards.

"The term 'Durbar' refers to courts and assemblies of Indian rulers and the British. It lost relevance after India became a Republic, that is, 'Ganatantra'. The concept of 'Ganatantra' is deeply rooted in Indian society since the ancient times, making 'Ganatantra Mandap' an apt name for the venue," the statement said.

Ashok Hall

'Ashok Hall' was originally a ballroom.

"The word 'Ashok' connotes someone who is 'free from all sufferings' or is 'bereft of any sorrow'," the statement said. Also, 'Ashoka' refers to Emperor Ashok, a symbol of unity and peaceful co-existence, it said.

"The national emblem of the Republic of India is the lion capital of Ashok from Sarnath. The word also refers to the Ashok tree, which has deep significance in Indian religious traditions as well as arts and culture. Renaming 'Ashok Hall' as 'Ashok Mandap' brings uniformity in language and removes the traces of anglicisation while upholding the key values associated with the word 'Ashok'," it said.