Allahabad Name Change: Why Prayagraj Replaced Allahabad and What It Means

When Allahabad, a historic city in Uttar Pradesh, India, known for its Mughal legacy and legal heritage. Also known as Prayagraj, it has been called by both names for centuries officially became Prayagraj in 2018, it wasn’t just a government decision—it stirred up memories, emotions, and deep-rooted attachments. For over 400 years, the city carried the name given by Emperor Akbar in 1583, blending Persian and Islamic influence into its identity. But the name Prayagraj? That’s older. Much older. It traces back to ancient Vedic texts, where Prayag, the sacred confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers was already a center of pilgrimage and spiritual power. The renaming didn’t erase Allahabad—it layered history on top of history.

The change wasn’t random. It reflected a broader push to reclaim indigenous names across India. But for many, especially those who grew up with the name Allahabad, it felt like losing a piece of their past. Lawyers, students, and families who had lived there for generations still say “Allahabad” out of habit, pride, or nostalgia. The city’s famous courts, colleges, and cricket grounds didn’t suddenly change their signs. Even today, you’ll hear both names used interchangeably on the streets, in newspapers, and in family stories. Meanwhile, official documents, maps, and government websites now use Prayagraj. The Allahabad Development Authority, the body responsible for urban planning and infrastructure in the region now operates under the new name, but its work—improving roads, managing housing, upgrading public spaces—stays the same. The city didn’t move. Only the label did.

What’s interesting is how the renaming didn’t erase the city’s character. Prayagraj is still the “Boston of India” for its top law schools and academic culture. It’s still called the “California of India” by those who remember its grassroots innovation. And it’s still known as “Mini India” because of its mix of languages, religions, and traditions. The Kumbh Mela, the world’s largest religious gathering, held at the Triveni Sangam continues to draw millions—not because of what the city is called, but because of what it represents. The name change didn’t alter the ghats, the temples, or the chai stalls. It just added another chapter to a story that’s been unfolding for millennia.

Below, you’ll find articles that dig into every angle of this shift—from the historical roots of both names to how locals still use them today, what it means for tourism, and why the old name still lingers in everyday speech. Whether you’re curious about the politics behind the rename, the cultural impact, or just want to know which name to use when you visit, you’ll find clear, grounded answers here.