Hathi Than: Shahjahanpur Neighborhood's Name Sparks Controversy, Residents Demand Change

• The 'Hathi Than' neighborhood in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh, is at the center of a name change controversy.
• Historically, the area was where Afghan army elephants were raised and kept, hence the name 'Hathi Than' ('Than' meaning animal dwelling place).
• Shahjahanpur was settled during Afghan rule, with many areas named after Afghan tribes and Nawab Bahadur Khan's family.
• Residents now find the name 'inappropriate' and socially uncomfortable, leading to demands for a new, dignified name.
• The area, historically significant and located near Jalal Nagar on the Garra River, is now densely populated.