Union Education Minister Suggests Renaming156-Year-Old Ravenshaw University In Odisha

Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan has proposed renaming Ravenshaw University, one of Odisha's oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Speaking at a program on Self-Governance Day in Cuttack, Pradhan shared his personal opinion on the matter, suggesting that the university's name no longer reflects the values and heritage of Odisha.

“There is a need for a name change. What did Ravenshaw, after whom the university is named, do during the famine hurt Odias. It is a matter of pride,” Pradhan stated during his address. He highlighted that the university is named after TE Ravenshaw, who served as the Commissioner of Odisha during the devastating famine of 1866.

Pradhan criticized the historical figure, pointing out that the famine led to widespread suffering and loss of life among the Odia people. “Many Odia people were killed in the famine. The calamity had occurred due to the administrative failure of the British authorities including TE Ravenshaw. Why should a prestigious university of Odisha be named after the British Commissioner? The intellectuals of Odisha should think over this,” he added.

Established in 1868 during British rule, Ravenshaw College was initially founded in Cuttack and later granted autonomous status in the 1990s. In 2006, it was upgraded to a unitary university. Over its long history, the institution has earned a reputation for excellence and has produced numerous notable figures across various fields.

Pradhan’s suggestion has sparked a conversation about the historical legacy of educational institutions and their names. The discussion is likely to continue as the people of Odisha, including intellectuals and historians, consider the implications of this proposed change.