BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal has called for renaming Delhi to ‘Indraprastha’ to reconnect with the city’s ancient roots. Khandelwal emphasized that the current name does not fully represent the capital’s deep historical and cultural significance. He suggested installing statues of the Pandavas at Purana Qila to honor the city’s ancient heritage.
Highlighting India’s rich civilizational legacy, Khandelwal stressed the importance of reflecting the country’s historical and cultural roots in the national Capital’s name. He pointed to archaeological evidence suggesting that present-day Delhi aligns with the location of ancient Indraprastha, the capital established by the Pandavas in the Mahabharata. Khandelwal proposed that renaming Delhi to ‘Indraprastha’ would reinforce India’s connection to its ancient past and promote cultural continuity.
Khandelwal cited excavations at Purana Qila by the Archaeological Survey of India, revealing ancient settlements dating back to around 1000 BCE. He argued that the name ‘Delhi’ originated relatively late and lacks a strong representation of the city’s deep civilizational identity. The MP highlighted the importance of historical accuracy and cultural preservation in renaming cities, referencing recent changes in other Indian cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Prayagraj.
Khandelwal emphasized that the name ‘Indraprastha’ is already widely recognized in various institutions and locations across Delhi. He viewed the proposed renaming as a significant step towards reaffirming India’s civilizational identity, fostering national pride, and showcasing the country’s ancient heritage globally. The MP urged Home Minister Amit Shah to consider the proposal in consultation with experts to honor and preserve India’s rich civilization.
