Nalasopara | September 5, 2026
The Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation has discussed a proposal to rename Nalasopara as Shurparak Nagari, with Mayor Ajiv Patil indicating that the civic body is positively considering the demand and examining the legal process. A proposal is also being considered to rename the Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation itself as Shurparak, according to a report by Loksatta – Vasai-Virar.
The issue was raised during a recent general body meeting focused on preserving the historical heritage of the city and developing memorials and public structures. Opposition leader Manoj Patil called for a formal proposal to rename Nalasopara railway station as Shurparak Nagari and submit it to the state and central governments.
Mayor Ajiv Patil said the civic administration was positive about changing Nalasopara’s name and that legal aspects were being examined. He also said that the possibility of renaming the municipal corporation as Shurparak had been discussed earlier, during the tenure of a former state secretary identified in the report as Gaikwad. The current status of any earlier proposal was not specified.
Shurparak, identified in the report as the ancient name associated with present-day Nalasopara, is described as a historically significant settlement in Palghar district. The area is known for an ancient Buddhist stupa and is presented as having links to the region’s religious and maritime history. The report states that the settlement was once regarded as a major port and an important centre in western India.
The demand for renaming has been linked to the preservation and public recognition of this heritage. Manoj Patil said that people from across India come looking for Shurparak Nagari, but find little beyond the Nalasopara railway station associated with that name. He argued that the historical identity of the area should receive greater recognition.
The proposal would require action beyond a municipal discussion if it is to take effect. The report states that the state and central governments would receive the proposed name-change request. A change to the railway station’s name would also require consideration by the relevant railway and central authorities. No approval from either government, and no implementation date, was announced in the report.
The general body meeting also discussed the construction of memorials and public buildings dedicated to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Bharat Ratna Dr B R Ambedkar and other prominent figures. A proposal was additionally raised for memorials and statues of Narveer Chimaji Appa in Virar and Nalasopara.
The next step is the preparation and legal examination of the naming proposal before it is sent to the state and central governments. Until those authorities consider and approve the request, Nalasopara will continue to remain the official name used for the city and its railway station.
