Unveiling of C Rajagopalachari's Bust
In a symbolic move to distance itself from colonial vestiges, President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of C Rajagopalachari, India's first and only Indian governor general, at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This replaces the bust of Edwin Lutyens, the architect of New Delhi.
Significance
- Rajagopalachari expressed mental decolonization by placing portraits of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa and Mahatma Gandhi in his room at Government House, promoting the idea of internalized self-rule or Swaraj.
- The event aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to move away from a colonial mindset, as referenced in his "Mann ki Baat" address.
Recent Changes in Rashtrapati Bhavan
Granth Kutir Library
- Rashtrapati Bhavan library now includes 2,300 books and manuscripts in 11 classical languages, replacing speeches of Lord Curzon and works of William Hogarth with Indian texts like the Puranas, Vedas, and Upanishads.
Commemorative Portraits
- British ADC portraits were replaced by portraits of 21 Param Vir Chakra awardees, reflecting national military honor.
Renaming of Halls
- Durbar Hall and Ashok Hall have been renamed to Ganatantra Mandap and Ashok Mandap, respectively, to better reflect Indian cultural values.
Amrit Udyan
- Previously known as the Mughal Gardens, now renamed "Amrit Udyan", the garden is spread over 15 acres and is inspired by Mughal garden styles.
Conclusion
These changes at Rashtrapati Bhavan aim to embrace India's heritage, reflecting a broader initiative to shed colonial influences and emphasize Indian cultural and historical identity.
