BJP MP Urges Renaming Delhi to Indraprastha: A Move to Honor Ancient Indian Heritage

Praveen Khandelwal has also advocated for installing grand statues of the Pandavas throughout Delhi.

New Delhi:

On Saturday, Delhi BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal addressed a letter to Home Minister Amit Shah proposing that the national capital be renamed 'Indraprastha,' highlighting its "ancient roots." Khandelwal suggested that Old Delhi Railway Station should be renamed to 'Indraprastha Junction' and the international airport to 'Indraprastha Airport.'

The letter, which was also sent to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and other ministers, emphasized that such a change would better reflect the historical, cultural, and civilizational heritage of the city.

"Delhi's history spans thousands of years and embodies the essence of Indian civilization and the vibrant tradition of the city of 'Indraprastha,' established by the Pandavas," stated Khandelwal in his letter. He further recommended that impressive statues of the Pandavas be erected across the national capital.

"Placing statues of the Pandavas on the sacred land of Indraprastha would revitalize India's history, culture, and faith. This would serve as a reminder to the younger generation about India's rich heritage as a symbol of the Pandavas' ethics, righteousness, and courage. It will establish a connection with our glorious traditions," the BJP MP explained.

Khandelwal described Delhi as "not merely a modern metropolis, but the soul of Indian civilization."

He pointed out that while other historic Indian cities such as Prayagraj, Ayodhya, Ujjain, and Varanasi are reconnecting with their "ancient identities," Delhi should similarly be "respected in its original form." "This change represents not only historical justice but also an important step toward cultural renaissance. It would restore historical accuracy and demonstrate cultural respect," he added.

"Following Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of cultural renaissance: If the country is revitalizing ancient cities like Ayodhya, Kashi, and Prayagraj, why should Delhi be any different?" questioned the BJP MP.

Renaming Delhi to 'Indraprastha' would convey to future generations that India's capital is not just a center of political power but also a symbol of religion, ethics, and nationalism, according to Khandelwal's letter.

Last month, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) made a similar request, arguing that such a change would reconnect the city with its roots in ancient Indian history and the Mahabharata era. In correspondence with Delhi Culture Minister Kapil Mishra, the Delhi unit of the VHP urged that the national capital's name, along with Indira Gandhi International Airport and New Delhi Railway Station, be modified to reflect the city's "true cultural identity."

Previously, former minister Vijay Goel had requested the Delhi Chief Minister to change the English spelling from 'Delhi' to 'Dilli' in the new logo and all future government documents. He referenced other cities that had adopted their traditional names – Bombay to Mumbai, Calcutta to Kolkata, and Madras to Chennai.