Kolkata’s iconic Fort William — a centuries-old symbol of British colonial power — just shed its imperial name, reborn as Vijay Durg in a bold nod to India’s heritage. The Indian Army’s Eastern Command, which calls the fort home, dropped a video this week cementing the change, part of a sweeping push to scrub colonial labels from landmarks. Gone are tributes to forgotten colonizers; in their place, gates and buildings now bear names rooted in India’s history and military valor. After all, why let a fort that once secured British rule keep a name that doesn’t reflect the blood, sweat, and sacrifice of those who truly built — and now protect — this land?
Fort William Becomes Vijay Durg: A Historic Shift
For over two centuries, Fort William has stood as an emblem of British military power in India. The British East India Company constructed the fort in 1696 and named it after King William III of England.The fort was instrumental in the colonial period and served as a major military base.
However, with India moving towards decolonisation, the decision to rename Fort William to Vijay Durg is a monumental step.Vijay Durg means “Fort of Victory,” a reference to India’s power, courage, and victory over colonial occupation.
The decision is part of a broader trend of reclaiming Indian history that has been occurring in cities and institutions over the past few years.
Why Was Fort William Renamed Vijay Durg?
The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg is not just a superficial change—it represents a deeper nationalistic sentiment. Here are the primary reasons behind this transformation:
1. Decolonisation of Historical Landmarks
- India has been steadily moving away from colonial-era names and reinstating its own historical and cultural identity.
- Other major name changes include:
- Rajpath renamed to Kartavya Path in Delhi.
- Aurangzeb Road renamed to Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Road.
- Allahabad renamed to Prayagraj.
2. Honoring Indian Soldiers
- Fort William served as a British military base, but today, it stands as the headquarters of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army.
- The name Vijay Durg embodies the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of India’s armed forces.
3. Reviving Indian Heritage
- Many historical landmarks in India still bear British names, keeping a colonial legacy alive.
- Renaming them with Indian names restores a sense of national pride and heritage.
4. Symbol of India’s Military Strength
- The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg sends a strong message of India’s self-reliance and sovereignty.
- It showcases the country’s commitment to recognizing its own military power instead of carrying remnants of its colonial past.
What Other Buildings and Gates Have Been Renamed?
As part of this initiative, not just Fort William but several buildings and gates within the fort have also been renamed. These renames are yet to be completely revealed, but they are part of the Indian Army’s broader task of Indianising historically important locations.
Sources say that this renaming drive is an attempt to eliminate British influences from India’s military past and pay tribute to Indian warriors who have contributed to the country’s defense forces.
Public Reactions to Fort William’s Renaming
The renaming of Fort William to Vijay Durg has sparked widespread reactions from different sections of society:
1. Indian Army and Veterans
- Several army officials and veterans have come out in support of the name change, referring to it as a long-overdue decision.
- A retired Indian Army officer stated, “This renaming is not just about changing a name; it’s about acknowledging our history and honoring our soldiers.”
2. Historians and Scholars
- Historians feel that maintaining colonial-era names is also necessary to know India’s past.
- Others are in favor of the decision, stating that history has to be rewritten from an Indian point of view.
3. General Public
- Many Indians have taken to social media to celebrate the decision.
- Hashtags like #VijayDurg, #IndianArmy, and #Decolonisation have been trending online.
A Step Towards Retaking India’s Heritage
The Fort William renaming to Vijay Durg is a part of a larger nationwide movement to recapture India’s forgotten heritage. This is in line with similar efforts by the Indian government, which has been renaming roads, railway stations, and cities that once bore British or Mughal names.
Other Important Name Changes in India
- Victoria Terminus → Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
- Connaught Place → Rajiv Chowk
- Prince of Wales Museum → Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya
- Teen Murti Chowk → Teen Murti Haifa Chowk
- Dalhousie Road → Dara Shikoh Road
Each of these renamings represents a step towards decolonising India’s identity and reinforcing its rich historical and cultural legacy.