Tracks of History: The Fight to Rename Mumbai Central After Nana Shankarsheth

Image Source: Swarajya

The renaming of Mumbai Central railway station after philanthropist and Mumbai architect Jagannath "Nana" Shankarsheth is still in limbo despite sanction by the Railway Ministry as well as the Maharashtra state government. Activists in favor of renaming made an announcement on April 16, the day of Indian Rail Transport Day, calling for action by July 31—Shankarsheth's death anniversary—or else they will rename the station themselves.

Legacy of Nana Shankarsheth: Dubbed the "Architect of Mumbai," Shankarsheth played a pivotal role in introducing railways to India, being co-founder of the Great Indian Peninsula Railway (GIPR). He also made significant contributions to education, urban planning, and social reform.
Approval Roadblocks: The suggestion to rename Mumbai Central has been stuck with the Union Home Department since 2020, having already got state and Railway Ministry approvals.
Protests Planned: The Jagannath Shankarsheth Namkaran Sangharsh Samiti has threatened to intensify its agitation if nothing is achieved by July 31.
Public Debate: Historians propose a combined name such as "Jagannath Shankarsheth Mumbai Central" to maintain historic neutrality and pay tribute to his contributions.

This saga in progress showcases the intricacies of maintaining heritage while conforming to contemporary recognition. As tensions build, supporters remain committed to immortalizing Nana Shankarsheth's legacy.

Source: Mid-Day, Indian Express, Wikipedia.