BJP MP Calls for Delhi to be Renamed ‘Indraprastha,’ Citing Ancient Heritage
Praveen Khandelwal, a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament (MP) from Chandni Chowk, Delhi, has called for the capital city of India, Delhi, to be renamed ‘Indraprastha.’ He argued that Delhi is not merely a modern city but also the soul of Indian civilization.
Khandelwal stated that ancient cities like Varanasi, Prayagraj, Ujjain, and Ayodhya have preserved their ‘ancient identities,’ and Delhi should also be restored to that form. He believes this renaming would reflect the city’s ancient heritage and the roots of its civilization. He made this appeal in a letter sent to India’s Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday, as reported by NDTV and Anandabazar Patrika.
Proposals for Renaming and Monuments
In his letter, Khandelwal also proposed renaming the Old Delhi Railway Station to Indraprastha Junction and the Indira Gandhi International Airport to Indraprastha Airport. The letter was not only sent to Amit Shah but also to Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and other ministers.
He wrote: “Delhi’s history is thousands of years old. It carries the soul of Indian civilization and the vibrant heritage of the city of ‘Indraprastha.'”
Khandelwal also suggested installing massive statues of the Pandavas in the capital.
He said: “The installation of Pandava statues on the sacred land of Indraprastha will revive India’s history, culture, and beliefs. It will remind the new generation of India’s glorious tradition as a symbol of the Pandavas’ principles, justice, and courage.”
Justification for the Change
The BJP MP wrote that this change is not only an act of historical justice but also a significant step toward cultural resurgence. “It will restore our history and demonstrate respect for our culture.”
He questioned why ancient cities like Ayodhya, Kashi, and Prayagraj are being revitalized under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but Delhi is not.
He added: “Changing Delhi’s name will send a message to future generations that India’s capital is not just a center of power, but a symbol of religion, morality, and nationalism.”
This is not the first such demand; last month, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) made a similar plea in a letter to Delhi’s Culture Minister Kapil Mishra. Now, the BJP MP from Delhi has written directly to Amit Shah.
