Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced that the state government will soon send a formal proposal to the central government and Prime Minister to rename the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay as IIT Mumbai. The decision, he said, is intended to align the institute’s official name with the city’s identity and history.
During a recent public event, Fadnavis said the name “IIT Bombay” reflects an older, colonial-era identity of the city. Since Bombay officially became “Mumbai” in 1995, many institutions and places in the state have gradually adopted the new name. According to the Chief Minister, the time has come for the state’s premier educational institution to reflect that change too.
A Move Rooted in Cultural Identity
The proposed change is not just administrative but symbolic. For many in Maharashtra, “Mumbai” represents the cultural and linguistic heritage of Marathi speakers and the spirit of the city itself. “When the city’s name has changed officially, our top academic institutions should carry that identity forward,” Fadnavis said while addressing the audience.
State officials say the government will soon write to the Union Ministry of Education, requesting an official notification to rename the institute. The letter is also expected to be addressed to the Prime Minister’s Office for final approval. If approved, the name IIT Mumbai will replace IIT Bombay across all national records, documents, and educational references.
Expected Reactions and Debates
The proposed renaming is likely to spark a fresh wave of debate across academic and political circles. While some people welcome the move as a matter of regional pride and alignment with current nomenclature, others believe the existing name holds historical and international recognition that should be preserved.
IIT Bombay, founded in 1958, is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious technology institutes. Its alumni community spans across the globe, and many believe that “IIT Bombay” has become a brand known for excellence, innovation, and top-ranked education. Renaming it, some alumni say, might affect its identity in global academic networks.
However, proponents argue that institutions must evolve with time and reflect national and regional sentiments. Just like the Bombay Municipal Corporation became the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), and Bombay University became the University of Mumbai, IIT Bombay should follow the same path.
Official Process and Timeline
Once the state government submits the proposal, the central education ministry will review it and consult with relevant administrative authorities. The proposal must also go through IIT’s internal governing body for consideration before any formal renaming is approved.
The process could take several months as changes would affect a wide range of academic, administrative, and legal records, including research papers, degree certificates, logos, and website domains.
A senior state official mentioned that the government is prepared to assist with all procedural steps to ensure a smooth transition if the Centre approves the proposal. “Our goal is not to disturb the academic work but to ensure that the institution’s identity matches the city it represents,” the official added.
IIT Community’s Reaction
Initial reactions among IIT Bombay students and faculty have been mixed. Some students expressed pride at the idea, saying that “IIT Mumbai” feels more authentic to the city they live in. Others are concerned that frequent name changes may confuse international collaborators and digital databases.
Many professors have suggested that discussions with faculty and alumni should be held before the final decision. They believe that such consultation will help balance cultural emotions with institutional reputation and global perception.
Several alumni groups have already initiated online discussions about the move. While some welcome the idea under the slogan “Mumbai spirit, global excellence,” others prefer that the historic “IIT Bombay” tag remain untouched to preserve its branding consistency worldwide.
Political and Public Responses
Political analysts see this move as part of a larger trend of restoring local identity to places and institutions that still carry colonial-era names. Similar proposals have been made in other parts of India in recent years, including the renaming of cities, roads, and government institutions.
In Maharashtra, where regional identity holds strong political value, the decision may also have social and emotional significance. Many citizens believe this step reinforces local pride and acknowledges Marathi cultural heritage.
At the same time, public sentiment is expected to vary. Some residents of Mumbai see both names—Bombay and Mumbai—as deeply connected. Many feel that while “Mumbai” symbolizes local pride, “Bombay” evokes nostalgia linked to the city’s history, cosmopolitan ethos, and international image.
Looking Ahead
If the name change is approved, IIT Bombay will officially become IIT Mumbai, marking a new chapter in its distinguished history. This would also bring consistency with other top institutions in the city, such as the University of Mumbai and Mumbai Port Trust, which have already adopted the new name.
The Chief Minister has emphasized that this is not a political decision but a cultural correction. “We respect IIT Bombay’s global reputation. This step will only strengthen its bond with the city and its people,” he said.
Experts believe that beyond nomenclature, the focus should remain on maintaining IIT’s legacy of academic excellence, research innovation, and contribution to India’s technological growth. The renaming may serve as a reminder of how deeply rooted the institute is in the heart of Mumbai—India’s financial and cultural capital.
As the proposal reaches New Delhi for review, the discussion over IIT Bombay versus IIT Mumbai is set to capture national attention. Whether seen as a symbolic gesture or a matter of identity, the decision will mark an important moment in Maharashtra’s ongoing journey to preserve and promote its heritage.
