From Pages to Platforms: Epic Indian Train Names Inspired by Literature!

Table of Content: 

• Godan Express

• Gitanjali Express

• Kaifiyat Superfast Express

• Ganadevta Express

• Kamayani Express

• Hate Bazare Express 

• Tutari Express 

Raise your hand if train journeys are more than just a mere means of transportation for you. Undeniably, train odysseys are the most preferable transportation mode by Indians because of the ultimate comfort and affordability it renders to passengers. Not only this, the scenic routes on train rides truly enrich our travel experiences which is another wonderful reason to choose train journeys for transportation. Do you know that there exists some interesting Indian train names inspired by literary works? If you haven’t discovered this yet, let’s dig into the invaluable insights with the help of this post. 

Some Indian trains are not merely carriers but storytellers, each bearing a name that adds a rich layer of cultural significance, connecting passengers with the literary masterpieces after which they are named. Below are some popular train names based on literature that you should know. 

1. Godan Express

Named after Munshi Premchand's poignant novel "Godan," this train connects Mumbai and Gorakhpur, traversing the heartland of India where Premchand's stories are set. The novel, which translates to 'the gift of a cow,' is a profound narrative that critiques the socio-economic injustices faced by the rural poor. Riding the Godan Express train, passengers might find themselves reflecting on the enduring themes of human struggle and resilience that Premchand so masterfully depicted in his work. 

2. Gitanjali Express

Bridging the cities of Mumbai and Kolkata, the Gitanjali Express pays homage to Rabindranath Tagore's "Gitanjali," a collection of poems that earned him the Nobel Prize in Literature. The train's journey mirrors the spiritual and philosophical journey undertaken in Tagore's poems, which contemplate life's deepest questions and the nature of God. As the landscapes slide by, passengers aboard the Gitanjali Express are invited to ponder the poetic beauty that defines Tagore’s work.

3. Kaifiyat Superfast Express

Linking Delhi and Azamgarh, the Kaifiyat Express is named after the celebrated Urdu poet Kaifi Azmi, known for his passionate love poems and fervent social and political commentary. The term "Kaifiyat" denotes a condition or state of being, capturing the essence of Azmi's reflections on existential themes. As the train speeds through the cities and countryside, it symbolically carries with it the poet's legacy of challenging the status quo and inspiring a state of introspection among its passengers.

4. Ganadevta Express

The Ganadevta Express, operating between Howrah and Balurghat, is named after Tarashankar Bandopadhyay’s novel "Ganadevta". This novel explores the life of a rural hero during the British Raj, delving into themes of societal change and human valour. The train thus serves as a mobile homage to Bandopadhyay's exploration of human virtue and the quest for justice, offering passengers a connection to these powerful narratives as they journey through the very landscapes that inspired them.

Suggested Read: 20 Types of Indian Railways: From Luxury to Mail!

5. Kamayani Express

Connecting Allahabad and Mumbai, the Kamayani Express takes its name from Jaishankar Prasad’s Hindi epic "Kamayani." The poem uses characters from Vedic literature to explore complex themes of human emotions, philosophy, and the interplay of nature and civilization. Aboard the Kamayani Express, passengers embark on a journey akin to that of the poem’s protagonist, Manu, navigating the floods of existential inquiries and emerging with insights just as the landscapes shift outside their windows.

6. Hate Bazare Express 

Named after the famous Bengali novel "Hate Bazare" by Banaphool, the Hate Bazare Express connects Kolkata with Saharsa. The novel, translating to "Daily Market," explores the myriad facets of human relationships and societal norms through its vivid portrayal of everyday life in Bengal. The train, serving a route deeply embedded in the cultural milieu that inspired the novel, offers its passengers not just a journey through physical spaces but also a glimpse into the vibrant bazaars and the bustling life that are integral to the story.

7. Tutari Express 

The Tutari Express train, running between Mumbai and Kolhapur, is named after the Marathi word "Tutari," a traditional horn instrument used in Maharashtra to herald significant events or celebrations. This train symbolises a call to explore the rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty of Maharashtra. As passengers travel towards Kolhapur, known for its historical sites and religious festivals, they are metaphorically invited by the tutari's call to participate in the celebration of Marathi tradition and history, making each journey a culturally enriching experience.
 

The Bottom Line! 

In summary, the tradition of naming trains in India after literary works transforms each journey into a narrative exploration, bridging the literal and literary landscapes. The above-mentioned interesting Indian train names inspired by literary works do more than transport passengers from one city to another. They carry them across the realms of history, culture, and philosophy, enriched by the stories they commemorate. For travellers and literature enthusiasts alike, a ride on any of these trains is not just a passage through space, but a journey through the depths of Indian literary heritage, making every trip a profound experience in storytelling.