Feb 24 • 13:23 UTC 🇮🇳 India Aaj Tak (Hindi)

Why is the name of Kerala being changed? Read the story behind Keralam

The Indian central cabinet has approved the proposal to change the state's name from Kerala to Keralam, reviving a long-standing discussion on its linguistic identity.

The Indian central cabinet has recently approved the change of the state name from Kerala to Keralam. This renaming initiative is a continuation of the state's long-standing discussions regarding its identity and linguistic heritage. The name Keralam aligns with the state's native Malayalam language, and it reflects a broader movement advocating for the recognition of regional languages and their significance in expressing cultural identity. The proposal has garnered considerable interest among netizens, highlighting the contemporary relevance of linguistic identity in governmental discussions.

The Kerala Legislative Assembly had passed a resolution on June 24, 2024, to push for the name change, emphasizing that the name Keralam is rooted in Malayalam. The assembly noted that Kerala was established on a linguistic basis on November 1, 1956, which is also celebrated as Kerala Piravi Day. This historical context underscores the importance of the name change as part of a larger narrative that acknowledges the legitimate demands of Malayalam-speaking populations who have long sought recognition and representation through language.

After a prolonged discussion and consideration of various views, the decision to rename Kerala reflects a greater emphasis on linguistic identity in the framework of Indian federalism. The change is not merely a superficial alteration but signifies a recognition of local languages' significance and the cultural roots they represent. The ongoing debate and eventual implementation of this name change may inspire similar movements in other states, creating a ripple effect in the ongoing dialogue between language, culture, and identity in India.

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