Introduction

In recent times, there has been a growing debate regarding the name change of India to ‘Bharat’. ‘Bharat’ is a name that holds great significance in Indian culture, and some argue that changing the name of the country would better reflect its roots and identity. However, others are concerned about the potential drawbacks and implications of such a change. This research paper aims to delve into the debate surrounding the name change of India to ‘Bharat’. The paper will explore the historical significance of the name ‘Bharat’, the arguments for and against the name change, and the potential implications of such a change on India’s identity and international relations. By analyzing both sides of the debate, this paper seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of whether a name change for India to ‘Bharat’ is legally and constitutionally possible, and what the potential advantages and drawbacks of such a change may be.

What is the debate surrounding the name change of India to ‘Bharat’?

The name 'Bharat' holds great significance in Indian culture, and has been used for thousands of years. As the ancient name of India, it has been found in ancient Sanskrit texts [1]. The country has since been known by the name Bharat,and the use of the name has been ongoing for centuries [1]. It is seen as a way to instill a sense of pride in Indian nationality and to recognize the hard-fought freedom gained by Indian ancestors [1][2]. The significance of the name Bharat in Indian culture is further emphasized by the fact that the name remains the same regardless of the language [1]. The RSS chief has suggested that the name Bharat must be taken forward [1], while Mamata Banerjee has questioned the need to change the name of the country to Bharat,suggesting that Bharat is not significant in Indian culture [3]. Indian cities have also been renamed to identify with the Indian ethos [2]. While the name India is already known to the world [3], the time is ripe to recognize the country by its original and authentic name 'Bharat',as it is already called 'Bharat' in the Constitution itself [2]. The use of the name 'Bharat' instead of 'India' is seen as a way to instill a sense of pride in Indian nationality [2] and the term 'Bharat' is currently occupying central stage in India [3]. The name 'Bharat' has significant importance in Indian culture [3][1], and it is clear that India and Bharat should coexist [3].

What are the arguments for and against the name change of India to ‘Bharat’?

Hindu nationalists have argued that 'Bharat' is more authentic compared to 'India', citing its deeper cultural and religious roots [4][5]. Supporters of 'Bharat' argue that it is associated with India's ancient texts, and the name has endured despite centuries of foreign rule [5]. Kamalapati Tripathi, one of the strongest supporters of the name change, argued that the name 'Bharat, that is India' would be more appropriate [5]. He pointed out examples from various regions of India, citing the widespread use of the name 'Bharat' [5]. He argued that it would better represent the nation's rich history and culture, as well as its prestige [5]. Meanwhile, Das Seth Govind, another proponent of the name change, stated that 'India' is a relatively recent term [5]. He further argued that 'Bharat' has deep historical and cultural roots in ancient texts [5]. On the other hand, Arvind Kejriwal critiqued the renaming concept,calling it a joke and questioning whether BJP would replace 'Bharat' with something else in case the India alliance changes its name to Bharat [1]. Kejriwal suggested that BJP is thinking that their vote count will decrease so they should change the name of Bharat [1]. All three names, 'India', 'Bharat', and 'Hindustan', were in use long before British rule,and both names, 'India' and 'Bharat', have happily coexisted [4]. Therefore, the argument against the name change is that there is no need to erase 'India',while the argument for the name change to 'Bharat' is that it is one of the official names [4].

Arguments against the name change of India to ‘Bharat’

The debate over the name change of India to ‘Bharat’ has been ongoing for some time now, and supporters of the change believe that it will usher in a sense of nationalism and pride in the country [3]. However, opponents of the change argue that there is no real need to change the name, and that India and Bharat can coexist [3]. One of the strongest arguments against the name change is the fact that India is already a globally recognizable name, and erasing it from the constitution would require a constitutional amendment [3][8]. The Indian Constitution recognizes both India and Bharat as official names [8], and the government is not attempting to erase India, but rather emphasize Bharat [3]. This is because the latter evokes an image of the country through its Hindu communities rather than its wider diaspora [3]. Chief Justice of India S A Bobde dismissed a PIL seeking a name change, stating that India is already called ‘Bharat’ in the Constitution [9]. Hegde further argued that the constitution already provides for Bharat, and that it is only a change in nomenclature [8]. Top opposition leader Mamata Banerjee also questions the need for changing the name of the country from India to Bharat, pointing out that India is a name known to the world [3].

What are the potential drawbacks of changing the name of India to ‘Bharat’?

Despite the positive connotations of the name, the idea of changing India to Bharat does have its detractors. Seth Govind Das was one such opponent,who argued that "India, that is, Bharat" was not a suitable alternative [10]. He suggested that "Bharat known as India also in foreign countries" might be a better option [10]. The text does not provide any information on the potential drawbacks of changing the name of India to Bharat [10]. However, it can be speculated that potential drawbacks could include confusion among international audiences, as the name 'India' is more widely recognized than 'Bharat.' Additionally, the change could be seen as an unnecessary expense, as the name 'India' is already printed on currency, passports, and other official documents. It could also be argued that the name 'India' is a part of the country's global identity and that changing it could undermine India's reputation as a global power. Ultimately, the implications of changing the name of India to Bharat remain to be seen.

How would the name change affect India’s international relations?

The name Bharat is an ancient Sanskrit word that is believed to have originated from early Hindu scriptures [10]. All three names were in use long before British rule. The bill proposes to change the name of India to Bharat, which is also known as Hindustan. But there is no information provided in the text about how the name change would affect India's international relations [10]. It is possible that India's name change to Bharat could have a positive effect on India's international relations. The change could help to strengthen ties with its neighbors, since the name Bharat has a deep and proud history in the region. Furthermore, the name change could help to create a more unified identity for the people of India, fostering a sense of national pride and patriotism. On the other hand, the name change could also have a negative impact on India's international relations. It could lead to confusion among other countries that do not recognize the term Bharat, and it could also create tension between India and other countries that may have a different view of India's history and culture. Ultimately, the name change could have both positive and negative effects on India's international relations, and it is impossible to know what the outcome will be without further information.

Arguments in favor of the name change of India to ‘Bharat’

Proponents of the name change of India to ‘Bharat’ argue that India is linked to the country's colonial past, while Bharat is linked to its ancient history [11]. One of the main proponents is the far-right Hindu nationalist group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, which is seen as the BJP’s ideological parent [11]. Singh's argument is that Bharat is not a new name; if the constitution already provides for Bharat, then there is no change, just a change in nomenclature [8]. This is evident in Article 1 of the Indian constitution, which refers to "India, that is Bharat, is a union of states" [8]. Seth Govind Das, a member of the BJP, argues that changing to the name Bharat does not mean looking backwards, but it is more fitting to the country's history and culture, and will not prevent the country from progressing [7]. Furthermore, Das emphasizes that the speaker wants scientific inventions to be encouraged in the country [7]. Consequently, the debates ended with the addition of 'Bharat' to Article 1(1), which signifies a name change of India to 'Bharat' [7]. Historians have also noted that the name India is millenia old and is linked to the Indus river, which was home to one of the world’s oldest civilizations [11]. This counters the debunked claim that India was coined by the British colonizers [11]. Therefore, the arguments in favor of the name change of India to ‘Bharat’ have historic, cultural and progressive implications.

How would the name change benefit India’s international relations?

The name change of India to Bharat has the potential to benefit India’s international relations. Its usage is inclusive, as the term is used across languages and dialects, and does not exclude anyone.As such, it is seen as a unifying factor that unites Indians from all parts of the country.It is believed that the use of the term 'Bharat' might have a positive effect on India's international relations. When India is referred to as Bharat, it is likely to help other countries view India more favorably.Additionally, it might help to improve India's standing in the international community.Furthermore, the name Bharat can help create an image of a strong, unified nation that is capable of facing global challenges.In addition, it could create a sense of pride in Indian nationality, as it is not only perceived as a proud symbol of unity but also as an emblem of India's history and culture.This could lead to a better understanding of India in the international community and could lead to improved diplomatic relations.The name Bharat may also lead to increased trade and investment opportunities for India, as well as increased tourism.Thus, the name change from India to Bharat has the potential to benefit the country's international relations.

What are the potential advantages of changing the name of India to ‘Bharat’?

Virender Sehwag, an Indian international cricketer, has welcomed the prospect of changing the name of India to 'Bharat', stating that it is India's original name [12]. Sehwag believes that this name change would rid India of a name given by the British,and would restore India's original name [12]. In addition, Sehwag has expressed his support for the potential name change [12]. 'Bharat' is one of the two official names for India according to its constitution,and referring to India as 'Bharat' is a way to connect with the country's ancient Hindu past [12]. While the potential advantages of changing the name of India to 'Bharat' are numerous, there are also arguments for and against making this change. On the one hand, it can help to unite the country and honor its heritage. On the other hand, it can be seen as a way to erase the country's British colonial past. Whatever the outcome, changing the name of India to 'Bharat' could have a major impact on the nation and its citizens.

History of the Name ‘Bharat’

The origin of the name Bharat is embedded in the ancient Hindu mythology and literature. [13] The name is derived from the term 'Bhārata' which appears in the official Sanskrit name of the country, Bhārata Gaṇarājya. [13],,,,,,, [14], The term 'Bhārata' is a verbal noun of the Sanskrit root bhr- meaning 'to bear/to carry' and it also means 'one who is engaged in search for knowledge'. [14],, The Vayu Purana states that conquering the whole of Bhāratavarṣa makes one celebrated as a samrāta. [14] In the Mahabharata, the Bharatas are mentioned as one of the original tribes of the Aryavarta. [14] The name Bharata symbolizes a nation of King Bharat's descendants. It is also used to refer to the Indian subcontinent since ancient times [15] and the word 'varsa' means a division of the earth or a continent in the context of the name Bharatavarsha. In the Sanskrit epic, a larger region of North India is encompassed by the term [14] and the earliest recorded use of Bhārata-varṣa is in the Hathigumpha inscription of King Kharavela. [14] The name of King Bharata’s empire has been called as Bharatavarsha which means Bharata’s land. [16] Thus, the name Bharat is deeply entrenched in Indian culture and has been used to refer to the Indian subcontinent since ancient times.

What is the historical significance of the name ‘Bharat’?

The significance of the name "Bharat" is deeply rooted in Indian history and cultural heritage. It has been used by different rulers over time, with the earliest known references to the name appearing in the Rig Veda and the Mahabharata [17]. The term is commonly used in literature, poetry, songs and various cultural expressions to evoke a sense of national pride and tradition [17]. The Constitution of India uses both "Bharat" and "India" to refer to the country, thus acknowledging the historical and cultural significance of both names [17]. "Bharat" remains an important part of India's cultural and linguistic identity and is used to contrast India's past and present, and to signify a sense of national pride. The name "Bharat" is also linked to Hindu mythology, with its main character, Bharata, being the son of King Dushyanta and Shakuntala. This connection has given the name "Bharat" an extra layer of cultural significance, as it is associated with traditional Indian values such as brotherhood, harmony and service to society. Overall, the name "Bharat" is an embodiment of India's history, culture, language and traditions, and is used to signify a sense of national pride.

How has the name ‘Bharat’ been used in India’s past?

The Mahabharata is a Hindu epic that is one of India's two greatest epics. It is said that King Bharata, the Chakravarti, was the forebearer of the entire land and is credited with giving the subcontinent its name [15]. The Mahabharata is the source of the name Bharat, Bharata, and Bharatvarsha, which all refer to the same land and have been in use since the Puranic period [18]. King Bharata, who was the son of Dushyant and Shakuntala, is the father of the name Bharata [19]. He was the Great Emperor who, being the original conqueror of the entire subcontinent, gave it the name Bharat, as it is known today [16]. It has been used to refer to the subcontinent for centuries [17]. According to Mahabharata, India was called Bharatvarsha, meaning 'the land of the descendants of the Bharatas', after the legendary King Bharata [20]. The name Bharat is also a shortened form of Bharatvarsha after the king [21]. Consequently, Bharat has been a part of India's history and culture for a long time, and is closely linked to the Indian subcontinent.

Implications of the Name Change

Changing the name of India to ‘Bharat’ could have far-reaching implications. Firstly, it would be a symbolic gesture of embracing the nation's ancient culture and traditions.Additionally, it would be a way to break away from colonial rule and the legacy of empire.Such a move would also serve as a reminder of India's varied history and its desire to be an independent nation.Furthermore, it could be a unifying force for the country, helping to bridge divisions between north and south, east and west, and different cultural and religious groups.On the other hand, such a change could also be seen as an attempt to erase India's past and the contributions of its people,potentially leading to a sense of alienation for those who identify themselves with the current name. It might also create confusion in international circles,as India is well-known and widely used in many international contexts. All in all, changing the name of India to ‘Bharat’ would be a bold move that could potentially have both positive and negative repercussions.

How would the name change affect India’s identity?

The name change of India to Bharat has been gaining traction in the recent past. The current name Bharat is believed to have been in use since the Vedic era, and is seen as an expression of the pride of Indian nationality.This name change has prompted a sense of patriotism among the citizens, and is seen as a way to make them feel connected to their past.The use of the name Bharat is not limited to a certain language. It is used in all languages in India and is seen as a unifying factor.The term Bharat is being used increasingly in India, and it is believed that it will help in fostering a sense of national pride amongst its citizens.The name Bharat is also being used as an alternative to India in official documents and other official communication.The term Bharat is also being used in the Indian Constitution as the official name for the country.This name change has the potential to alter India's identity and will also help in unifying the country. It will also help in promoting the idea of a unified India, both internally and externally.The name Bharat has been in use for centuries, and it is believed that it will bring about a sense of pride in Indian nationality.The term Bharat will also help in promoting the idea of a unified India and will help in strengthening the nation's identity.Thus, the name change from India to Bharat is likely to have a major impact on India's identity and will help in unifying the nation.

What would be the impact of changing the name of India to ‘Bharat’ on public opinion?

The debate of changing the name India to ‘Bharat’ has been a long-standing one. It is often argued that while the name India is a colonial legacy, Bharat is more closely associated with the country’s ancient culture and its traditions.The name Bharat is derived from an ancient Sanskrit word, believed to be first used in Hindu scriptures.All three names – India, Bharat and Hindustan – were in use long before the British rule.Furthermore, the term Bharat is more widely accepted by the international community and is used by world organisations such as the United Nations.Despite this, the proposed name change to ‘Bharat’ is likely to have a major impact on public opinion. It is likely to be seen as a symbolic move that could potentially unify the country, while also providing a sense of pride and honour to its citizens.Moreover, the new name could trigger a sense of nationalistic pride, which could result in increased patriotism. On the other hand, some believe that the name change could have a negative impact on public opinion, with some citizens feeling that the country is making a move towards Hindutva nationalism.In conclusion, changing the name of India to Bharat will likely have a major impact on public opinion. While the move could potentially unify the nation, it is also likely to have an effect on some citizens who feel that the move is a step towards Hindu nationalism.

The debate over changing the name of India to Bharat is a complex issue with both supporters and opponents. Proponents argue that the name 'Bharat' is deeply rooted in Indian culture and traditions, and that it will help in promoting a sense of national pride. The term 'Bharat' is already used in the Indian Constitution as an official name of the country. Supporters believe that changing the name to 'Bharat' will help erase India's British colonial past and promote a unified India both internally and externally. However, opponents argue that there is no real need to change the name, and that India and Bharat can coexist. They also suggest that the name change could have a negative impact on public opinion and create confusion in international circles. Moreover, some opponents argue that the name change could lead to a move towards Hindutva nationalism and erode India's secular identity. The controversy over the name change is needless, as 'Bharat' is already one of the official names for India. In conclusion, while changing the name of India to Bharat has its advantages, it is important to consider the potential negative impacts and to proceed with caution. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential effects of the name change on public opinion and India's international relations.

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