Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is known for its local train network. This network not only connects millions of passengers in the city, but is also an important part of Mumbai’s identity. Recently, the Maharashtra government has decided to change the names of seven major local railway stations in Mumbai. This decision has been taken with the aim of honoring the cultural and historical heritage of the city and strengthening local identity. The purpose of these new names is to remove the names of the British-era and highlight local history, religious importance and cultural heritage.
Let’s know the new names of these stations and the reason behind them.
Changed stations and their new names
In the table below, old and new names of those seven stations are given:
| Old name | new name |
| Currey Road Station | Lalbaug |
| Sandhurst road | Dongri (Dongri) |
| Marine Lines | Mumbadevi |
| Charni road | Girgaon (Girgaon) |
| Cotton Green | Kalachowki (kalachowki) |
| Dockyard road | Mazgaon (mazgaon) |
| King’s Circle | Tirthankar Parswanath |
Reason for changing name
1. Removing the legacy of British-era.
Many stations in Mumbai were built during the British rule and their names were also in English. The name often referred to the colonial mentality of that time. These names have been given priority to local culture and history.
2. Promoting local identity
New names reflect local regions, religious places and historical importance. As:
- Mumbadevi: The name is taken from the patron Devi Mumbadevi Temple in Mumbai.
- Lalbagh: This region is known for its famous Ganapati festival and Marathi culture.
- Tirthankara Parshwanath: This name has been given honoring the 23rd Tirthankara Parshwanath ji of Jainism.
3. Religious and cultural importance
New names of many stations are inspired by religious places or cultural heritage, which reflect the diversity and rich tradition of Mumbai.
Station reenming process
The decision was taken by the Government of Maharashtra, in which Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Minister Chandrakant Patil played an important role. This proposal was unanimously passed in the State Legislature and will now be sent for approval of the Central Government.
This is not the first time the names of stations in Mumbai have been changed. Even before this, the names of many prestigious stations were changed, such as:
- Victoria Terminus (VT) → Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT)
- Elphinston Road → Prabhadevi
- Oshiwara → Ram Temple
Impact of Mumbai local station reenming
1. Effect on passengers
However, new names can initially create confusion for passengers, but these changes will be accepted over time. The railway administration has indicated that new names will be updated on all platforms, indicators and digital displays.
2. Local pride
These changes will increase a sense of pride among the local residents as they honor their regional history and identity.
3. Impact on tourism
New names associated with religious places like Mumbadevi and Tirthankara Parshwanath can attract tourists.
historical background
The process of changing the names of stations in Mumbai is not new. The process began in 1995 when Bombay was renamed to Mumbai. After this, many other places and stations were also reproduced:
- Allahabad → Prayagraj
- Hushangabad → Narmadapuram
- Babai → Makhan Nagar
Important facts
- The proposal was approved by the Maharashtra government in March 2024.
- These changes will apply to western, central and harbor lines.
- The state government has sent this proposal for the approval of the central government.
Summary
Mumbai local station reenming is an important step that exposes the cultural heritage and local identity of the city. These changes will not only increase the spirit of pride among the Mumbaikars but will also preserve the historical heritage of the city.
Disclaimer:
This article is written with the objective of providing information. The station reenming process currently depends on the approval of the central government.
