Rename Delhi ‘Indraprastha’: BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal to Amit Shah

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 1st Nov: Delhi BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal has formally written to Home Minister Amit Shah urging that India’s national capital — Delhi — be renamed Indraprastha, arguing that the city’s historic identity has been lost and the change would restore its ancient civilisational roots.

Khandelwal cited the city’s origins as the Pandavas’ capital in the Mahābhārata. In his letter, also shared with Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and central ministers, he proposed renaming key landmarks such as Old Delhi Railway Station to “Indraprastha Junction” and the international airport to “Indraprastha Airport”. He also called for the installation of statues of the Pandavas in prominent locations of Delhi to reconnect citizens with their heritage.

According to the letter, the renaming is more than symbolic — it is an act of historical justice and cultural restoration. “Delhi’s history not only dates back thousands of years but embodies the soul of Indian civilisation,” the MP wrote. He stated that just as other ancient cities have reclaimed original names, Delhi too should return to its “original form.”

Khandelwal also said that such rebranding could benefit tourism and the economy, giving Delhi a unique identity rooted in heritage. He emphasised the move is consistent with the Government of India’s vision of cultural renaissance under PM Narendra Modi.

While officials at the Ministry of Home Affairs have not yet issued a reaction, the letter adds to a growing series of demands for renaming cities and landmarks across India to reflect ancient roots and cultural identity.