In a landmark decision, the Odisha Governor’s residence, hitherto known as Raj Bhavan, has been officially renamed “Lok Bhavan” with immediate effect.
The change was formalised through a notification issued by the Governor’s Secretariat on Monday.
The renaming follows a directive from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. Accordingly, the two official residences of the Governor — Raj Bhavan in Bhubaneswar and Raj Bhavan in Puri — will now be referred to as Lok Bhavan, Bhubaneswar; and Lok Bhavan, Puri, respectively, for all official purposes from 1st December 2025.
Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati welcomed the decision, stating that the new name “Lok Bhavan” embodies the spirit of a people-oriented administration. “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,” the Governor remarked.
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… pic.twitter.com/HV0wQcR2s5
— Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati (@DrHariBabuK) December 1, 2025
The renaming is being seen as part of a larger nationwide effort to shed colonial-era nomenclature and adopt titles that resonate with India’s democratic ethos and the principle of “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
With Odisha joining the list of states that have rechristened their Governor’s residences, the term “Raj Bhavan” is gradually being replaced by more indigenous and citizen-centric names across the country.
