BJP parliamentarian Praveen Khandelwal is championing a cultural revival by petitioning Home Minister Amit Shah to restore Delhi’s ancient name, Indraprastha. Rooted in mythology and backed by science, the demand seeks to realign the capital with its Mahabharata origins.
Historical texts portray Indraprastha as the Pandavas’ grand capital on the Yamuna’s banks, a description that aligns seamlessly with modern Delhi’s landscape. Archaeological digs at Purana Qila reveal artifacts from around 1000 BCE, including pottery associated with the epic’s timeline, solidifying the site’s ancient credentials.
Khandelwal contends that while ‘Delhi’ emerged later in history, Indraprastha captures the essence of India’s timeless civilization. To make this legacy tangible, he proposes erecting Pandava statues in the Purana Qila complex, turning history into a living exhibit.
Extending his campaign, the MP has urged Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to rally legislative support through an assembly resolution. He points to successful renamings of other cities like Mumbai from Bombay and Prayagraj from Allahabad as models for this patriotic endeavor.
The letter requests expert input from historians and archaeologists to kickstart the process. In an era where cultural heritage faces erosion, Khandelwal’s push could redefine how India honors its foundational stories, fostering a deeper national identity.