Rajagopalachari's Bust Replaces Lutyens' at Rashtrapati Bhavan in Decolonisation Effort

President Droupadi Murmu unveiled a bust of Chakravarti Rajagopalachari, India's first and only Indian Governor-General, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, replacing the bust of British architect Edwin Lutyens. This move is part of the government's efforts to shed colonial-era symbols and promote Indian heritage. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described it as an act of 'mental decolonisation.' The decision has drawn mixed reactions, with supporters praising the emphasis on Indian figures and critics expressing concern over erasing colonial history. Rajagopalachari's legacy as a freedom fighter and statesman was highlighted during the event.