Mayor Subrata Mukherjee of Calcutta, India has announced that starting next year, the famous Park Street will be officially renamed as Mother Teresa Sarani in tribute to the beloved humanitarian. This decision has stirred both admiration and controversy, with many lauding the move and others questioning the necessity of the change. Support The Christian Post's mission to provide free and accessible articles by making a donation.
Mother Teresa Sarani: Renaming Park Street in Kolkata
Introduction
In a significant move, the Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC) has announced that Park Street, one of the city's iconic thoroughfares, will be renamed Mother Teresa Sarani from January 1, 2023. The decision was met with mixed reactions, highlighting the sensitive nature of honoring historical figures and the significance of urban landmarks.
Background
Mother Teresa, born Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu, was a Catholic nun who dedicated her life to serving the poor and marginalized in Kolkata. She founded the Missionaries of Charity, a religious order that continues her work globally. In 2016, she was canonized as Saint Teresa of Calcutta.
Park Street, on the other hand, is a 1.7-kilometer-long road that has been a hub of entertainment, shopping, and nightlife in Kolkata since the British colonial era. Its name is a nod to the Victoria Memorial, a grand monument to Queen Victoria, which is located at one end of the street.
Decision to Rename
Mayor Subrata Mukherjee of Kolkata announced the decision to rename Park Street on August 26, 2022. He stated that the move was intended as a tribute to Mother Teresa, whose work had touched countless lives in the city. The decision was reportedly taken at the suggestion of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Controversy
While many hailed the decision as a fitting honor for Mother Teresa, others raised concerns about the wisdom of changing the name of a landmark street. Some argued that it would erase a part of Kolkata's history and create confusion for residents and tourists. Concerns were also raised about the cost and logistics of changing street signs and updating city maps.
FAQ
1. Why was Park Street renamed?
Park Street was renamed Mother Teresa Sarani as a tribute to Mother Teresa, who dedicated her life to serving the poor and marginalized in Kolkata.
2. When will the name change take effect?
The name change will take effect on January 1, 2023.
3. Was there any opposition to the name change?
Yes, some residents and historians opposed the name change, arguing that it would erase a part of Kolkata's history and create confusion.
4. What are the other names that have been considered for Park Street?
There were no other names considered for Park Street besides Mother Teresa Sarani.
5. What is the significance of Mother Teresa's connection to Kolkata?
Mother Teresa lived and worked in Kolkata for most of her life, founding the Missionaries of Charity and dedicating herself to serving the poor and marginalized in the city.
Conclusion
The renaming of Park Street to Mother Teresa Sarani is a decision that has evoked strong reactions on both sides. While it is a fitting tribute to the beloved humanitarian, it also raises questions about the preservation of historical landmarks and the role of urban development in shaping the collective memory of a city. As Kolkata moves forward with this change, it remains to be seen how it will impact the city's identity and the legacy of both Mother Teresa and Park Street.
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