A New Era for Varanasi: 50 Localities to Shine with Traditional Names

In a major development, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation is considering a proposal to rename 50 city areas, including names like Aurangabad and Khalispur. The proposal includes renaming Aurangabad as "Narayan Dham" and Khalispur as "Brahmateerth," among others. The move is to revive traditional Hindu names and cultural heritage in areas traditionally named after Mughal personalities.

The proposal has been backed by different Hindu groups and high-profile figures such as Jagatguru Rambhadracharya, who last month lobbied for these changes in Banaras Hindu University. Reform supporters say the renaming would pay respect to the city's historic past and eliminate reminders of historical Islamic occupiers. Other name changes on the cards are Kazzakpura to "Anarak Teerth" and Ambia Mandi to "Amareshwar Tirtha."

The move has set off a debate on cultural restoration vs. historical preservation. The decision would be taken in an executive meeting of the Municipal Corporation after taking suggestions from scholars and public representatives. This comes ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, with Varanasi being the PM's constituency, making it that much more politically and culturally important.

Sources: Deccan Herald, OpIndia