The Rajasthan government has officially renamed two historic British-era landmarks in Ajmer. The Foy Sagar lake is now called Varun Sagar, while the King Edward Memorial Bhawan (KEM) has been renamed Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih. The Ajmer Municipal Corporation issued the renaming orders, completing the process. It highlights Rajasthan’s efforts in preserving cultural heritage and promoting Indian traditions.
Renaming of Foy Sagar to Varun Sagar
- Foy Sagar Lake, built in 1892 as part of a famine relief project, was constructed by British engineer Foy.
- Until 1995, before the Bisalpur Dam was built, Ajmer relied on this lake for drinking water.
- The lake was later neglected and remained dry for years.
- Now, 132 years later, the lake is renamed Varun Sagar after Lord Varun, the Hindu god of water.
- Plans are in place to build a statue of Lord Varun and a ghat where people can sit and offer prayers.
- The Sindhi community considers the lake’s water sacred and worships it.
Renaming of King Edward Memorial Bhawan to Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih
- The King Edward VII Memorial Bhawan (KEM) was built in 1912-1913 to provide affordable accommodation for pilgrims visiting Ajmer and Pushkar.
- The State Government’s Gazette Notification (September 2014) declared it an old monument.
- The 113-year-old building, located on Ajmer’s Railway Station Road, has been renamed Maharishi Dayanand Vishrant Grih.
- The renaming honors Maharishi Dayanand Saraswati, as he attained nirvana in Ajmer.
Significance of Name Change
- Reflects Rajasthan’s initiative to honor Indian heritage by replacing colonial-era names.
- Recognizes Hindu cultural and spiritual figures, aligning with historical and religious sentiments.
- Restores historical and religious significance to Ajmer’s landmarks.
- Enhances public engagement with the lake and rest house, promoting cultural and spiritual tourism.