Background:
The city of Prayag, located in present-day Uttar Pradesh, has great religious significance in Hinduism as it is the site where the rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati meet. The city was known as Prayag in ancient times, meaning "place of sacrifice."

Naming by Akbar:
Emperor Akbar, known for his policy of religious tolerance and promotion of unity among diverse religious communities, visited Prayag in 1575. Impressed by the spiritual and historical significance of the city, he decided to rename it to Allahabad, meaning "city of Allah." This renaming was part of Akbar's efforts to create a sense of unity among Hindus and Muslims in his empire.

Reasoning:
Akbar's decision to rename Prayag as Allahabad was not only a symbolic gesture of religious inclusivity but also a strategic move to foster harmony among his subjects. By associating the city with Allah, revered by Muslims, Akbar aimed to show respect towards the Muslim population while also acknowledging the city's sacredness to Hindus.

Impact:
The renaming of Prayag to Allahabad by Emperor Akbar had a lasting impact on the city's identity and cultural landscape. The name Allahabad continued to be used for centuries, reflecting the syncretic ethos of Indian society where multiple religious traditions coexist.

Legacy:
Despite the recent official change of the city's name back to Prayagraj in 2018, the historical significance of Allahabad as a symbol of religious harmony and unity remains ingrained in the city's heritage. The legacy of Akbar's renaming of Prayag stands as a testament to the power of inclusive policies in fostering social cohesion.