PATNA, May 18 -- The decision to rename the historic city of Gaya as 'Gayaji' has evoked widespread emotions among locals, as it marks the culmination of a decades-long demand rooted in spiritual sentiment and cultural identity. The call for renaming dates back to 1971, when the Gayapal Samaj, along with local hoteliers and priests, launched a campaign urging the Bihar government and the Railway Ministry to reflect the city's sacred status by renaming the station to Gayaji Junction. For the people of Gaya, Friday's decision is more than a symbolic name change - it represents the fulfilment of a generational aspiration to restore the city's rightful stature in India's spiritual geography. However, the renaming appears to have served a broader purpose than just religious reverence. As locals pointed out, the existing International Air Transport Association (IATA) code for Gaya Airport -'GAY'- has long been considered inappropriate and embarrassing for a globally recognised pilgrimage site. In 2022, a campaign was launched to change the IATA code, with appeals reaching the media and even a Parliamentary panel. The Committee on Public Undertakings (CoPU), in its report tabled in Parliament, acknowledged the concerns and recommended a change, suggesting alternatives like 'YAG'. A senior district official who was posted in Gaya at the time confirmed that the Civil Aviation Ministry had also supported the proposal and had communicated the matter to Air India and other authorities. "Despite backing from multiple stakeholders, the issue got stuck for various reasons," the official said. "But with the recent renaming to Gayaji, there's renewed hope that the airport code will also be changed." Changing an IATA code, however, is not a simple process. "IATA codes are three-letter identifiers, and due to limited combinations, overlaps are possible. But in the case of Gayaji, we believe there is a strong case for reconsideration," said Anil Kumar, a social activist of Gaya. Prof. Siddhnath, also known as Munna Ji, a frequent flyer, emphasised the need for increased flight connectivity and a revised code. "Gaya is an international pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and Buddhists. While we respect all communities, a code like 'GAY' does not reflect the sanctity of the place. Now, after the renaming, there's a strong justification for a change." "Gaya means Vishnupad, and Vishnupad is the place that grants salvation to one's ancestors," said Shambhulal Vitthal, president of the Gayapal Samaj and the Shri Vishnupad Managing Committee. "This is not merely a name-it is a symbol of reverence. That's why we've been demanding this change since 1971." The state government had earlier written to the Centre in 2014 regarding the name change, but it wasn't until 2025 that it was officially approved. Welcoming the cabinet decision, senior BJP leader and Member of Parliament Ravi Shankar Prasad called it a moment of pride. "Renaming Gaya as Gayaji highlights the city's religious importance," he said....