Patna: The debate over renaming Bakhtiyarpur has gathered fresh momentum, with a new proposal calling for the town to be renamed “Fateh Vihar” in honour of Baba Fateh Singh, the youngest son of the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh.
The demand comes days after the Bakhtiyarpur Municipal Council submitted a proposal to the Bihar government seeking to rename the town. Local residents have also staged demonstrations in support of changing its name.
While the Municipal Council has proposed “Magadh Dwar” as the new name, another section of society has suggested naming the town after freedom fighter Pandit Sheel Bhadra Yajee. The latest proposal adds another dimension to the ongoing discussion.
Why Is ‘Fateh Vihar’ Being Proposed?
Supporters of the proposal argue that the town should be named after a figure remembered for courage and sacrifice rather than after Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji, the 12th-century military commander after whom Bakhtiyarpur is believed to be named.
They contend that honouring Baba Fateh Singh would provide an inspiring historical reference for future generations while reflecting India’s cultural heritage.
Who Was Baba Fateh Singh?
Baba Fateh Singh was the youngest son of Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru.
According to Sikh history, Baba Fateh Singh and his elder brother Zorawar Singh were executed at a young age after refusing to renounce their faith. They were allegedly bricked alive on the orders of the Mughal administration at Sirhind.
The Government of India observes Veer Bal Diwas every year on December 26 in memory of the sacrifice of the two young Sahibzadas.
Historians Link Proposal To Cultural Heritage
A Patna based historian said India is increasingly recognising historical personalities who symbolise courage, sacrifice and national heritage.
He argued that places associated with historical figures who inspired society should be commemorated through public institutions and place names.
Referring to Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khilji, Dr Singh said historical accounts associate him with the destruction of several centres of learning in Bihar and Bengal, including Nalanda, Odantapuri and Vikramshila.
Tourism Argument
Supporters of the proposal also believe that renaming Bakhtiyarpur as Fateh Vihar could strengthen Bihar’s religious and cultural tourism.
They point out that Patna Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Gobind Singh, attracts Sikh pilgrims from across India and abroad. Many devotees travelling to Guru Nanak Sheetal Kund Sahib in Rajgir pass through Bakhtiyarpur.
According to proponents, naming the town after Baba Fateh Singh could further strengthen its association with Sikh heritage.
Government Yet To Take Decision
The Bihar government has not yet taken a decision on the Municipal Council’s proposal or the various suggestions that have emerged regarding the town’s name.
With proposals ranging from Magadh Dwar and Fateh Vihar to Pandit Sheel Bhadra Yajee, the discussion over Bakhtiyarpur’s identity is expected to continue in the coming weeks.
