Many of India's airports honour legends who shaped our history. Test your knowledge of the country's airports and the famous figures they were named after.
Yes, that's Guwahati airport and its name honours Gopinath Bordoloi, Assam’s first chief minister post-independence. He played a pivotal role in safeguarding Assam’s territorial integrity within India during a volatile political era.
The airport at Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, is named for Bilasa Devi Kevat, a legendary fisherwoman celebrated in Chhattisgarh folklore for her courage and dedication. Kevat's story symbolises the fearlessness and resilience of ordinary individuals.
One of the most popular figures of Jharkhand is tribal freedom fighter and folk hero Ulihatu-born Birsa Munda, whose statue stands at one of Ranchi's main chowk. It is not surpising that the airport takes his name too. He led the Munda rebellion against British oppression and is revered for his efforts to preserve tribal culture and rights.
Shimoga's aiport commemorates Kuvempu, a distinguished Kannada poet and writer awarded the title Rashtrakavi or National Poet. His literary works enriched Kannada literature and promoted universal human values.
The legendary monarch of the Paramara dynasty in Malwa now in present-day Madhya Pradesh, Raja Bhog lends his name to Bhopal airport. A savant he is remembered for his scholarship and patronage of the arts, architecture, learning, contributing significantly contributing to local culture.
Tripura was once ruled by Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur. He was the visionary last king of Tripura. The maharaja spearheaded modernisation efforts, including educational reforms and urban planning. Agartala airport took his name.
Rebel Poet of Bengal was Kazi Nazrul Islam for whom Durgapur airport is named. Nazrul's revolutionary poems, songs and writings inspired anti-colonial movements and championed social justice.
Amristar airport celebrates Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh guru and the founder of the city. His leadership and spiritual teachings greatly influenced the growth of Sikhism and the development of Amritsar too.
The iconic freedom fighter of Odisha, Veer Surendra Sai was remembered when Jharsuguda airport was named for him. He led a prolonged resistance against British colonial forces, advocating for tribal rights and justice.