Governor Bagde described the renaming as a step to align the state’s highest constitutional office with India’s democratic ethos. “In a democracy, the people are supreme. The new name reflects public aspirations and embodies the spirit of the Constitution, which begins with ‘We, the people of India’,” he said.
Before Rajasthan, eight other states had renamed their Raj Bhavans as Lok Bhavan. In Union Territories, the RajBhavan is known as Raj Niwas, and similar renaming initiatives are reportedly underway to adopt the name Lok Niwas.
Following the official change, all government-related stationery, documents, and records bearing the name Raj Bhavan will be updated to Lok Bhavan. The signboards and nameplates at the premises are also being replaced. Even the official social media accounts of the Raj Bhavan have been rebranded to reflect the new name.
The renaming initiative is part of a broader effort to shed colonial legacies and reinforce the principle of public sovereignty in India’s governance. Officials say the move is intended to make the institution more accessible in symbolism to the citizens it represents.
As the process of updating administrative materials continues, Rajasthan joins a growing list of states prioritising democratic symbolism in government institutions. Observers note that such steps, though largely symbolic, are significant in shaping public perception and reinforcing civic values.
The state administration has confirmed that the transition, including physical and digital updates, will be completed in the coming weeks.
