Odisha Renames Raj Bhavan to Lok Bhavan, Marking a Shift Toward People-Centric Governance
In a landmark decision, the Governor’s residence in Odisha, previously known as Raj Bhavan, has been officially renamed Lok Bhavan with effect from December 1, 2025.
The change, formalised through a notification from the Governor’s Secretariat, applies to both residences in Bhubaneswar and Puri.
The directive, issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, is part of a broader nationwide initiative to shed colonial-era nomenclature and adopt titles that resonate with India’s democratic ethos.
Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati welcomed the move, stating that the new name embodies transparency, accessibility, and a people-oriented administration.
“This initiative aligns with the vision of empowering citizens, strengthening governance systems, and ensuring inclusive growth.
Lok Bhavan will continue to serve as a platform for public engagement and consultation, now with a renewed focus on openness,” the Governor remarked.
The renaming reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s larger vision of decolonisation and citizen-centric governance.
Odisha now joins other states in rechristening their Governor’s residences, signalling a gradual shift toward indigenous names that highlight the principle of “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
