Pune: Demand to Rename Pimpri-Chinchwad as ‘Jijau Nagar’ Sparks New Chapter in Maharashtra’s Name Change Debate

Pimpri Chinchwad, 11th July 2025: The debate over renaming prominent places in Maharashtra has intensified, with BJP MLC Uma Khapre demanding that Pimpri-Chinchwad be renamed as Rajmata Jijau Nagar, invoking the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s mother. This comes amid the ongoing political storm over the proposal to rename Pune Railway Station after Peshwa Bajirao, a demand raised by BJP MP Medha Kulkarni.

Speaking in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, MLC Uma Khapre raised the renaming issue and also submitted a formal representation to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. She reiterated that Pimpri-Chinchwad, a city with a rich historical and cultural identity, should honor Rajmata Jijabai—the mother of Shivaji Maharaj and a revered figure in Maharashtra’s history.

This proposal echoes earlier appeals by Bhakti-Shakti Pratishthan, a local organization that has long campaigned for renaming Pimpri-Chinchwad to ‘Jijau Nagar’.

Pune Railway Station Name Row Continues
Meanwhile, the controversy over renaming Pune Junction Railway Station after Peshwa Bajirao I continues to escalate. BJP MP Medha Kulkarni’s demand drew sharp criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups. Prominent historian Shrimant Kokate countered with a demand to name the station after Rajmata Jijau instead.

The issue took a dramatic turn when Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) launched a poster campaign in Pune, targeting Kulkarni’s proposal. Banners reading “Kothrudcha Bai, if you are so keen on changing names, then rename Budhwar Peth as ‘Mastani Peth’!”

appeared across the city—an apparent jibe referencing Mastani, the beloved of Peshwa Bajirao.

Pune city, known for its deep-rooted Maratha heritage, is home to Shaniwar Wada, the historic seat of the Peshwas. Citing this legacy, MP Kulkarni had said that renaming the station would be a tribute to Bajirao’s contribution to the Maratha empire.

However, the opposition has accused the BJP of attempting to stoke emotional and political sentiments ahead of upcoming civic elections. The war of words between parties is now spilling onto the streets and into the state legislature.