The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg marks a significant shift in India’s efforts to reclaim its historical and cultural identity while honouring its military heritage.This decision aligns with the broader movement of removing colonial-era legacies and replacing them with names that reflect India’s rich history, valour, and sovereignty.
Here are the main reasons behind this renaming: –
Honoring Military Valour and Victory:
The name Vijay Durg translates to “Fort of Victory”, symbolizing India’s military strength, resilience, and strategic excellence. Fort William, as the headquarters of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army, has been a pivotal base for India’s defence forces. The renaming signifies a tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers who have defended the nation’s borders. By adopting the name Vijay Durg, the armed forces reaffirm India’s commitment to military supremacy, preparedness, and national security. The term “Vijay” (Victory) resonates with the Indian Army’s victorious legacy that includes 1971 war fought under command and control of HQ Eastern Command. The victory in 1971 war fought against Pakistani forces is celebrated every year in December as Vijay Diwas. Hence the Fort was renamed Vijay Durg after Vijay Diwas.
A Step Towards Decolonization:
Since independence, India has taken gradual steps to remove colonial imprints from its institutions, cities, and historical sites. Fort William was built by the British in 1696 and named after King William III of England, making it a symbol of colonial rule. Renaming it to Vijay Durg aligns with the larger national movement to replace British-era names with Indian heritage.
Other similar renaming efforts include:
• Calcutta → Kolkata
• Rajpath → Kartavya Path (Path of Duty)
• Victoria Terminus → Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
• Allahabad → Prayagraj
• Dalhousie Road → Dara Shikoh Road
• Andaman & Nicobar Islands → Sri Vijaya Puram.
• Gurgaon → Gurugram
• Kitchener House → Manekshaw House
Strengthening Nationalism and Cultural Identity: –
The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg is deeply connected to the nationalistic movement that aims to revive India’s lost heritage. Many places in India still bear names given by colonial rulers, which fail to represent the country’s true cultural and historical identity. By choosing an indigenous name, the government reinforces the idea that India must celebrate its own heroes, history, and traditions rather than carry forward remnants of British rule. This move resonates with the broader sentiment of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) and ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’, which commemorate India’s progress since independence.
Symbol of Military Heritage and Future Readiness: –
Fort William has been a symbol of India’s military preparedness for centuries.
As the headquarters of the Eastern Command, it has played a key role in India’s defence strategies, including: –
• The 1962 Indo-China War
• The 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War
• Counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast
Conclusion:
The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg is a bold step towards reclaiming India’s cultural and military legacy. It honours the valor of Indian soldiers, eliminates colonial symbols. This move strengthens national identity, military heritage, and strategic significance, ensuring that India’s history reflects its own achievements rather than its colonial past. With this renaming, India asserts its self-reliance, pride, and commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty, marking a new chapter in the country’s journey towards a stronger and more self-defined future.
(Edited by Pratyusha Mukherjee, Sr.Broadcast Journalist, British Media and Editorial head, Defence& Sports, NE India Broadcast)
Also read:
A STRONG APPEAL TO INDIAN GOVERNMENT TO CHANGE THE NAME OF DURAND CUP
