Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Saturday, 20 June announced that Mount Abu, the state's only hill station, will henceforth be known as 'Aburaj', framing the renaming as a restoration of cultural identity and a tribute to the sentiments of local residents and the saint community. The announcement was made at a thanksgiving gathering and a congregation of saints held in Sirohi district.

What the Chief Minister Said

Addressing the congregation, Sharma described the renaming as far more than an administrative act. 'The renaming of Abu Parvat to Aburaj is not merely a change of name. It is a mark of respect for our culture, heritage, public faith and the sentiments of saints and devotees,' he said.

Sharma linked the move to a broader national effort, stating that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, both the Centre and the state government are working to remove symbols associated with what he called a 'colonial and servile mindset' and to strengthen national self-confidence. He cited the renaming of Kartavya Path in New Delhi and several islands in the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago as comparable precedents.

Development Projects Unveiled in Sirohi

The Chief Minister's visit to Sirohi was not limited to the renaming announcement. Sharma inaugurated and laid foundation stones for 41 development projects worth over ₹74 crore in Sirohi district.

Of these, 16 projects valued at more than ₹37.50 crore were inaugurated, including the Shivganj Police Station administrative building, multiple sub-health centres, road infrastructure, and a Government Minority Boys' Hostel in Sirohi. Foundation stones were laid for 25 additional projects worth over ₹36.55 crore, covering the Sirohi Police Lines administrative building, a Working Women's Hostel, new sub-health centres, bus stands, and various road and public utility works.

Tourism and Heritage Vision

Sharma articulated a dual-track vision for the newly renamed destination. 'Our vision is guided by the principle of Heritage as well as Development. We are working to establish Aburaj as a leading destination for tourism, infrastructure and public welfare,' he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted yoga as India's ancient heritage and noted its growing global recognition. He announced that a special programme would be held at Aburaj on Sunday to mark International Yoga Day.

Who Was Present

The event drew wide participation from political and religious circles. Among those present were Minister of State for Panchayati Raj Ota Ram Dewasi, Minister of State for Industries and Commerce K.K. Bishnoi, Members of Parliament Madan Rathore and Lumbaram Chaudhary, MLA Samaram, and Mahant Pratap Puri, along with a large number of devotees and local residents. Several saints and religious leaders expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for restoring the name 'Aburaj' during the event.

With the renaming formalised and a major infrastructure push announced, the Rajasthan government's next steps will determine how swiftly 'Aburaj' transitions from announcement to administrative and tourism reality.