Khultabad to be Renamed ‘Ratnapur’ A Cultural Reclamation Move by Maharashtra Government

In a significant move aimed at reviving pre-Mughal heritage and identity, the Maharashtra government has announced the renaming of the historic town Khultabad to its original name, Ratnapur. This decision was declared on April 8, 2025, by the State’s Social Justice Minister Sanjay Shirsat, reflecting the ongoing initiative by the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance to restore the original cultural and historical names of places altered during the Mughal period. Khultabad, located in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar district, is not only known for its scenic and spiritual significance but also for housing the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, along with the graves of his son Azam Shah and Asaf Jah I, the founder of the Hyderabad Nizam dynasty.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

Official Renaming

• Khultabad will be renamed to Ratnapur.
• The name change is presented as a restoration of historical identity rather than a political act.

Historical Significance

• Originally known as Ratnapur, the name was changed during the Mughal era.
• The town is approximately 25 km from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad).

Aurangzeb’s Tomb Controversy

• The site houses Aurangzeb’s grave, along with the tombs of Azam Shah and Asaf Jah I.
• Shiv Sena and BJP leaders have called for removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb from the list of protected monuments.
• Minister Sanjay Shirsat described Aurangzeb as a “tyrant who tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.”

Proposed Developments

• Plans are underway to construct a memorial for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj in Khultabad.
• This is seen as a step to highlight the valour and legacy of the Marathas.

Political and Cultural Context

• Part of the statewide movement to replace Mughal and colonial names.
• Aurangabad was renamed Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.
• Osmanabad was renamed Dharashiv.
• The move reflects a larger cultural and political strategy to “reclaim heritage” and revive Maratha identity.