Name change is not an uncommon phenomenon in India. Over the course of its history, the country has witnessed various instances of individuals, communities, and even cities undergoing name changes. These changes have often been influenced by cultural, religious, political, and social factors. This article aims to explore the historical perspective of name changes in India, highlighting key instances and the underlying reasons behind them.
I. Pre-Independence Era:
Colonial Influence:
During the colonial rule of the British Empire, many Indian cities, towns, and landmarks were given anglicised names. This was done to facilitate administration and governance, and to establish British dominance over Indian territories. For example, Bombay was renamed Mumbai, Madras became Chennai, and Calcutta was changed to Kolkata.
Related – Process To Change Name Legally In India.
Cultural Revival:
The early 20th century witnessed a resurgence of cultural pride and nationalistic fervor among Indians. As a part of this movement, several individuals and organizations advocated for the restoration of traditional Indian names. This led to the renaming of prominent institutions and landmarks, such as the University of Travancore being renamed the University of Kerala.
II. Post-Independence Era:
Linguistic Reorganization:
Following India's independence in 1947, there was a growing emphasis on linguistic diversity and the recognition of regional languages. As a result, several states were reorganised on linguistic lines, and numerous cities and districts underwent name changes to reflect the dominant language spoken in the region. For instance, the state of Madras was renamed Tamil Nadu, and the city of Bangalore became Bengaluru.
Also Read – How To Get A Legal Name Change Certificate In India and Print Name Change In Gazette Of India?
Commemoration and Ideological Shifts:
Many name changes post-independence were motivated by the desire to honor national leaders, freedom fighters, and cultural icons. These changes aimed to preserve and promote the legacies of these individuals and their contributions to the nation. For example, the city of Allahabad was renamed Prayagraj, after the confluence of the holy rivers Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati, and the state of Orissa became Odisha to reflect the local pronunciation.
III. Recent Developments:
Religious Considerations:
In recent years, there have been instances of name changes associated with religious sentiments. For instance, the Uttar Pradesh government changed the name of Faizabad district to Ayodhya, citing the religious significance of Ayodhya as the birthplace of Lord Rama. Such changes often invoke debates and controversies due to their potential to polarize communities.
Decolonization and Cultural Assertion:
India's post-colonial identity has seen a resurgence of cultural assertion and the rejection of colonial legacies. This has led to the renaming of institutions and cities to reclaim indigenous identities. In 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs approved the renaming of the iconic Kolkata Port Trust to Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port, honoring the nationalist leader's contributions.
Conclusion:
Name changes in India have been a recurring phenomenon throughout history, driven by a variety of factors ranging from colonial influences to cultural revival, linguistic reorganisation, ideological shifts, and religious considerations. These changes reflect the dynamic nature of Indian society, its diverse heritage, and the continuous evolution of its identity. While name changes can evoke mixed reactions and stir debates, they play a significant role in shaping the country's historical narrative and preserving its cultural heritage. As India moves forward, it is essential to strike a balance between preserving tradition and embracing progress in the context of name changes, keeping in mind the diverse perspectives and sensitivities of its people.
Posted by Sam
