General Information

Is Allahabad and Prayagraj Same?

Maharshi Kushwaha
Is Allahabad and Prayagraj Same?

If you’ve ever searched “Allahabad” on Google Maps and then saw “Prayagraj,” you’re not alone. Many people still ask: Is Allahabad and Prayagraj same? Some think it’s a new city, while others believe it’s a political change or just a spelling issue. The truth is simple but important: Allahabad and Prayagraj are the same city, just with different names used in different time periods.

This guide will explain everything clearly: the real meaning of both names, when and why the name changed, what locals call it today, and what you should write in forms, tickets, and official documents. We’ll also cover common confusion like “Allahabad University name” and “district vs city name.” By the end, you’ll understand the full story in a simple way, without myths or confusion.

Is Allahabad and Prayagraj same?

Yes, Allahabad and Prayagraj are the same city in Uttar Pradesh, India.

  • Prayagraj is the official name used today.

  • Allahabad is the older name used for many years.

So, if someone says they are going to Allahabad, they are talking about Prayagraj.

Why is Prayagraj so famous?

Prayagraj is one of India’s most important historic and religious cities. It is famous for:

  • Triveni Sangam (meeting point of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati)

  • Kumbh Mela and Magh Mela

  • Ancient Hindu traditions and pilgrimage routes

  • Major institutions like University of Allahabad

  • Freedom movement history and national leaders connected to the city

Because the city has deep ancient roots, the name “Prayagraj” is strongly connected to its older identity.

Meaning of Allahabad

The name Allahabad was given during the Mughal period.

It is commonly linked to Emperor Akbar, who renamed the city in the 16th century. Many historians connect it to the idea of “City of Allah” (God), and it became widely used in administration, official records, and later during British rule.

For a long time, Allahabad became the most recognized name nationally and internationally.

Meaning of Prayagraj

The word Prayagraj has ancient meaning:

  • Prayag means “place of sacrifice” or “place of offerings”

  • Raj means “king”
    So Prayagraj means “King of Prayags”, which means the most important holy confluence place.

In Hindu texts and traditions, Prayagraj is considered one of the most sacred pilgrimage locations because of the Sangam.

When did Allahabad become Prayagraj?

The official name change happened in October 2018, when the Uttar Pradesh government renamed Allahabad district as Prayagraj.

After this:

  • Government documents started using Prayagraj

  • Railways, airports, and maps began updating the name

  • Many boards and official signs changed gradually

So, if you’re asking “When did Allahabad change to Prayagraj?” the simple answer is 2018.

Why was the name changed?

The main reason given for the change was to restore the city’s older cultural and historical identity.

Supporters of the change said:

  • Prayagraj is the ancient name linked to Indian heritage

  • It matches the city’s religious importance

  • It reflects traditional identity of the Sangam city

Some people still prefer the name Allahabad because they grew up with it. That is why both names are still used in daily life.

Do people still call it Allahabad?

Yes, many people still say Allahabad in casual conversation.

Even today you’ll hear:

  • “Allahabad jaa rahe hain”

  • “Allahabad University”

  • “Allahabad High Court”

  • “Allahabad station” (many still call it this)

This is normal, because names don’t change in people’s habits overnight.

But officially, the city is Prayagraj.

What is the correct name to use today?

It depends on where you are using it.

In official work

Use Prayagraj

  • Aadhar, PAN, passport forms

  • Government applications

  • Property documents

  • Court and administration documents

In informal use

You can use either:

  • Prayagraj

  • Allahabad

Both are understood.

Allahabad district and Prayagraj district confusion

A lot of confusion happens here.

Earlier:

  • District name: Allahabad

  • City name: Allahabad

Now:

  • District name: Prayagraj

  • City name: Prayagraj

So yes, district and city both use Prayagraj officially.

Allahabad University name still has Allahabad, why?

Good question. Some famous institutions still have the older name because:

  • They were established long before 2018

  • Their legal and branding identity is already fixed

  • Name changes for universities and courts require separate approvals

That’s why you still see:

  • University of Allahabad

  • Allahabad High Court

Even though the city is now Prayagraj.

This does not mean they are different places. It is still the same location.

Prayagraj Junction and Allahabad Junction

Earlier, the main railway station was widely known as Allahabad Junction.

After renaming:

  • It became Prayagraj Junction

Also:

  • Allahabad City station was renamed Prayagraj Rambagh

  • The airport name now includes Prayagraj

So if you book tickets:

  • You should type Prayagraj to avoid confusion

  • But if your older ticket or memory says Allahabad, don’t worry, it’s the same

Is Prayagraj a new city?

No. Prayagraj is not a new city.
It is the same historic city that existed for centuries. Only the official name was updated.

Think of it like this:

  • Same city

  • Same people

  • Same culture

  • New official name

What should tourists search on Google?

If you are traveling, search using Prayagraj because most online listings are updated now.

Example searches:

  • Prayagraj tourist places

  • Prayagraj hotels near Sangam

  • Prayagraj railway station

  • Prayagraj airport

But if you search Allahabad, Google will still show Prayagraj results because it recognizes both.

Real-world examples to clear confusion

Here are simple examples:

  • Someone says “Allahabad Sangam”
    They mean Triveni Sangam in Prayagraj

  • “Allahabad Kumbh Mela”
    This is Kumbh in Prayagraj

  • “Allahabad to Varanasi train”
    It’s Prayagraj to Varanasi now in official records

  • A student says “Allahabad University”
    The university is in Prayagraj, name stays the same

Quick summary for forms, tickets, and documents

If you are filling a form

Write: Prayagraj

If you are talking to locals

Say: Allahabad or Prayagraj, both work

If you are booking travel

Use: Prayagraj in apps and websites

FAQs about Allahabad and Prayagraj

Is Allahabad and Prayagraj same city?

Yes. Allahabad and Prayagraj are the same city. Prayagraj is the official name since 2018.

Why was Allahabad renamed to Prayagraj?

The name was changed to restore the city’s ancient identity connected to Prayag and the Sangam.

When did Allahabad become Prayagraj?

The renaming happened in October 2018.

Is Allahabad still used officially?

No, government records mostly use Prayagraj now. But older institution names still include Allahabad.

Is Allahabad University in Prayagraj?

Yes. The university is located in Prayagraj, but the institution name remains University of Allahabad.

What is Prayagraj called in old times?

Prayagraj is considered an ancient name connected to Hindu traditions and pilgrimage history.

Is Prayagraj only the Sangam area?

No. Prayagraj is the full city and district, including Civil Lines, Katra, George Town, Naini, Jhunsi, and more.

Conclusion

So the final answer is clear: Allahabad and Prayagraj are the same city. The difference is only in the name. Allahabad was used widely during Mughal and British times, while Prayagraj is the older cultural name that became official again in 2018. Locals may still say Allahabad out of habit, and some institutions still carry the old name, but officially and on records, the city is Prayagraj.

If you’re a resident, student, or traveler, remember this simple rule: use Prayagraj for official work and online bookings, and don’t worry if people still call it Allahabad. Both names lead to the same historic, beautiful Sangam city.

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