Raj Bhavans renamed 'Lok Bhavans' across India in Modi govt’s service-oriented outlook

In a striking reflection of the Narendra Modi government’s push to recast the language and symbolism of Indian governance, at least eight states and one Union Territory have renamed their Raj Bhavans as “Lok Bhavan’, signalling a shift from colonial authority to citizen-centric service.

- ABHINANDAN MISHRA

The move is part of a broader effort championed by Prime Minister Modi, who has consistently sought to anchor public institutions in the ideas of seva (service) and kartavya (duty). Government buildings, central avenues and official residences have undergone symbolic rebranding during his tenure, with names reframed to project responsibility rather than privilege.