Bhubaneswar, Dec 1 ( LatestNewsX ) — Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati of Odisha has officially renamed the state’s governor’s residences. According to a notice from the Governor’s Secretariat released on Monday, the former Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar and the one in Puri will now be called Lok Bhavan, effective 1 December 2025.
“Pursuant to Letter No. 7/10/2025 (Part)-M&G dated 25 November 2025 of the Ministry of Home Affairs (CS Division), Government of India, Raj Bhavan, Bhubaneswar and Raj Bhavan, Puri are renamed as Lok Bhavan, Bhubaneswar and Lok Bhavan, Puri respectively with effect from 1st December 2025 for all official purposes,” the notification read.
The change signals a broader shift in Odisha’s administrative image, with the governor’s office incorporating a name that reflects a more people‑centric ethos. Sources confirmed that Kambhampati acted on a directive issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs.
In a post on his X handle, the governor said, “Happy to share a meaningful milestone for Odisha as Raj Bhavan is now Lok Bhavan, a name that truly reflects the aspirations of our people. Inspired by the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and guided by the Ministry of Home Affairs, this change reinforces our commitment to transparency, accessibility, and a stronger public connect.”
He went on to explain that the new designation underscores an intent to deepen public engagement and promote inclusive governance. “This initiative aligns with the broader vision of empowering citizens, strengthening governance systems, and ensuring inclusive growth. Lok Bhavan will continue to serve as an important platform for public engagement and consultation, now with a renewed focus on openness and accessibility for all,” he added.
Odisha joins several other states that have begun shedding colonial‑era names for gubernatorial residences in favor of titles that resonate with the populace. The renaming follows a recent instruction from the Union Home Ministry, which asked all states and union territories to rename governors’ official homes as Lok Bhavan and lieutenant governors’ homes as Lok Niwas to move away from colonial terminology.
Many states and union territories are already at various stages of implementing the directive.
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