Archive · 30 Nov 2025
West Bengal renames Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan
The government of West Bengal has changed the name of its official residence, Raj Bhavan, to Lok Bhavan.
This change was made to show that the building now represents the people.
The governor, CV Ananda Bose, officially made the change by removing the word 'Raj' and putting 'Lok' in its place.
The president of India gave a symbolic key to the chief minister, marking the start of this new era.
The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier given a notice about this change, and it has now been put into effect.
Historically, Raj Bhavan was known as Government House during the British era and was renamed after Independence to reflect its role as the governor's residence.
West Bengal's Raj Bhavan has been renamed Lok Bhavan.
Governor CV Ananda Bose officially made the change by replacing the word 'Raj' with 'Lok'.
The president of India handed over a symbolic key to the chief minister on March 27, 2023.
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notification about the name change on November 25, 2023.
The changes are being implemented with immediate effect, including updating all letterheads and official documents.
- Who
- West Bengal Governor CV Ananda Bose and the Ministry of Home Affairs
- What
- Renaming of Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan
- When
- March 27, 2023 (implementation), November 25, 2023 (notification)
- Where
- Kolkata, West Bengal, India
- Why
- To symbolize a shift towards a people's Raj Bhavan, as per the Ministry of Home Affairs' directive
Government and Governor's Perspective
Historical Context
Name Change
Government and Governor's Perspective
The government and governor view the name change as a symbolic shift towards a people's Raj Bhavan, making it more accessible to the public.
Historical Context
Historically, Raj Bhavan was known as Government House during the British era and was renamed after Independence to reflect its role as the governor's residence.
- Location
- Kolkata, West Bengal
- Renamed Buildings
- Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan
- Governor
- CV Ananda Bose
- Date of Renaming
- March 27, 2023
- Notification Date
- November 25, 2023
- Historical Name
- Government House
- Symbolic Key Ceremony
- March 27, 2023
- Governors Conference
- 2024
Sources
West Bengal renames Raj Bhavan as Lok Bhavan in presence of Governor CV Ananda Bose
Bengal’s Raj Bhavan gets a new name, Governor Bose oversees removal of name plaque
Governor Bose renames Bengal Raj Bhavan as Lok Bhavan following Centre’s directive
Guv CV Ananda Bose renames Raj Bhavan as Lok Bhavan
