Page 9 - NIS English 16-31 August 2024.pdf

Freedom from the marks of slavery Current Affairs

President Droupadi Murmu has taken many such ‘Ashoka’ refers to Emperor Ashok, a symbol of unity
decisions, which have fostered the connection of and peaceful co-existence. The word also refers
common people with Rashtrapati Bhavan. to the Ashok tree which has deep significance
Rashtrapati Bhavan, the office and the residence in Indian religious traditions as well as arts and
of the President of India, is a symbol of the nation, culture. Renaming ‘Ashok Hall’ as ‘Ashok Mandap’
and an invaluable heritage of the people. Continuous brings uniformity in language and removes the
efforts are being made to make it more accessible traces of anglicisation while upholding the key
to people. There has been a consistent endeavor values associated with the word 'Ashok'. Earlier,
to make the ambience of the Rashtrapati Bhavan the Mughal Garden at Rashtrapati Bhavan was
reflective of Indian cultural values and ethos. Taking renamed Amrit Udyan.
this forward, two important halls of Rashtrapati
Bhavan - 'Durbar Hall' and 'Ashok Hall' have been Redefining the nation
renamed as 'Ganatantra Mandap' and 'Ashok Often, some changes become a part of our life
Mandap' respectively. 'Durbar Hall' has been the that may not look big to see or hear, but they bring
venue for important ceremonies and festivals like big changes in our thinking. Just like during the
presenting national awards. The word 'Durbar' refers freedom movement, small symbolic efforts like
to the courts and meetings of Indian rulers and the the spinning wheel and a handful of salt shook
British. After India became a republic, its relevance the foundations of British rule. History is witness
ended. But the name lingered. While the concept of that a thread of Khadi became the strength of the
'republic' has been deeply rooted in Indian society freedom movement, it broke the chains of slavery.
since ancient times, 'Ganatantra Mandap' became In the same way, now when India is redefining itself
an apt name for this venue. as a nation, it becomes the duty of the nation to
‘Ashok Hall’ was originally a ballroom. The word erase the symbols of slavery.
‘Ashok’ connotes someone who is “free from Let us know how the signs of slavery
all sufferings” or is “bereft of any sorrow”. Also, are being erased….

New India Samachar August 16-31, 2024 7