Priyanka Gandhi Comments on Renaming of Iconic Halls at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the Modi government's renaming of Rashtrapati Bhavan's 'Durbar Hall' and 'Ashok Hall' to 'Ganatantra Mandap' and 'Ashok Mandap' respectively. She remarked that there is no concept of 'Durbar' but a concept of 'Shehanshah'. A Presidential statement justified the renaming, highlighting the term's historical irrelevance post India's Republic status.

Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday took a swipe at the Modi government over the renaming of Rashtrapati Bhavan's 'Durbar Hall' and 'Ashok Hall'. She stated that there is ''no concept of 'Durbar''' for them but a ''concept of 'Shehanshah''' instead.

The prominent venues, previously used for ceremonial functions, were renamed 'Ganatantra Mandap' and 'Ashok Mandap' accordingly on Thursday.

''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 ancient times, making 'Ganatantra Mandap' an apt name for the venue,'' a statement issued by the President's Secretariat elaborated.

Asked about the development, Priyanka Gandhi -- who was leaving Parliament with her brother Rahul Gandhi -- told reporters in Hindi, ''There is no concept of 'Durbar' but a concept of 'Shehanshah' … Interesting.'' 'Durbar Hall' is the venue of important ceremonies and celebrations such as the presentation of national awards.

(With inputs from agencies.)