A fresh political discussion has begun after BJP MP Praveen Khandelwal proposed renaming Delhi as “Indraprastha.” He has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, saying the change would reconnect the national capital with its ancient civilisational roots.
The Chandni Chowk MP argued that the name “Delhi” reflects only a later phase of the city’s history. According to him, restoring the older name would better represent India’s deep cultural heritage. This is the second time in recent months that he has raised the demand.
Khandelwal said the epic Mahabharata describes Indraprastha as a grand city built by the Pandavas on the banks of the Yamuna — a geography that closely matches present-day Delhi.
He also cited findings from excavations at Purana Qila by the Archaeological Survey of India, which some scholars believe indicate ancient settlement layers in the area. Supporters of the proposal say these references strengthen the historical link between modern Delhi and the legendary Indraprastha.
Historians generally believe the name Delhi evolved over centuries. During the Tomar dynasty, the city was known as Dhillika. Later, in the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal periods, it became Dehli or Delhi.
Khandelwal said that while these medieval names are part of history, they do not reflect the city’s earliest identity. Renaming the capital, he argued, would highlight India’s ancient legacy and strengthen cultural pride.
No official decision has been announced yet, and any name change would require approval through formal government processes.
Copyright © © 2022 Copyright. All Rights Reserved with Arth Parkash