Rashtrapati Bhavan’s Darbar Hall and Ashoka Hall: Their new names revealed

President Draupadi Murmu changed the names of the halls of Rashtrapati Bhavan on July 25, 2024. “Durbar Hall” now becomes “Ganatantra Mandap” and “Ashoka Hall” now becomes “Ashoka Mandap”. This choice fits with the plan to highlight Indian cultural beliefs and show how important India is as a republic.

Significance of renaming

The term “Darbar” was used to refer to the courts of Indian rulers when they were ruled by Britain. Its use ceased after India gained its independence. The new names emphasize the shift from colonial to republican identity, which emphasizes Indian ancestry.

History of Rashtrapati Bhavan

Rashtrapati Bhavan was built between 1912 and 1929 during the British Raj. It is now the official home of the Indian President and is a great example of how British and Indian architectural styles can work together. Edwin Lutyens made some important changes to the building.

Durbar Hall Overview

Important state functions such as civil and defence investiture ceremonies and important swearing-in ceremonies such as the swearing-in of India’s first government in 1947 were held in the Durbar Hall. The grand design of the hall with high marble walls and intricate chandeliers shows how important it is to Indian state functions. The design of the Durbar Hall has Mughal influence which can be seen in the marble jaalis and ornate pillars used as decoration. The hall still retains some of the features of its colonial past but has also been adapted to the needs of the modern Indian republic. It now has symbols representing the country.

Ashoka Hall Overview

Formerly a ballroom, Ashoka Hall is where foreign dignitaries are formally introduced and the national anthem is played at important events. Its design is a blend of Indian and Western styles, with chandeliers and colourful artworks being prominent. The art in Ashoka Hall is based on historical events, and Persian inspirations can be seen in the decorative elements and inscriptions on the fireplaces. This is another example of how Rashtrapati Bhavan’s design brings together different cultures.

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