The seemingly simple act of renaming the southern state of Kerala to its native name ‘Keralam’ by the state assembly is layered with cultural and political significance. This change reflects a deeper shift in cultural expression and identity, transitioning from one class to another. The move, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of the Communist Party, has sparked discussions among political analysts, cultural activists, and civil society.
The Political Undertones
Renaming Kerala to Keralam is not just a linguistic correction but a strategic political maneuver. Vijayan’s announcement on June 24, during the passing of the resolution for the second time, emphasized the need for the name change to be recognized in the First Schedule of the Constitution. “This Assembly requests the Centre to take immediate steps to amend it as ‘Keralam’ under Article 3 of the Constitution and have it renamed as ‘Keralam’ in all the languages mentioned in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution,” said Vijayan. The resolution, first passed in August last year, had been reviewed by the Union Home Ministry, which suggested some technical adjustments.
Cultural Identity in Transition
The renaming of Kerala to Keralam is part of a broader movement to reclaim native names and assert cultural identity. Over the years, Kerala has seen several cities undergo name changes: Quilon became Kollam, Cannanore turned into Kannur, Trivandrum was renamed Thiruvananthapuram, and Cochin transformed into Kochi. More recently, the small island once known as Anjengo was renamed Anjuthengu, meaning ‘five coconut trees’, reflecting its historical and cultural roots.
A Symbol of Cultural Expression
The name change from Kerala to Keralam symbolizes a shift in cultural expression from one class to another. It represents a reclaiming of local heritage and identity, aligning with similar changes happening across the country. This movement highlights the importance of recognizing and honoring native names and cultural histories, moving away from colonial and anglicized versions.
Political Implications
The timing of this resolution is significant, coinciding with a period of heightened political activity in the state. The move by Vijayan and the Communist Party is seen as a strategic effort to solidify their cultural and political influence. By championing the name change, Vijayan is appealing to regional pride and identity, which could have far-reaching implications for the political landscape in Kerala.
Historical Context
The renaming initiative is part of a larger trend across India, where many cities and regions have reverted to their indigenous names. This trend is not only about correcting historical inaccuracies but also about asserting cultural independence and pride. For instance, Bombay became Mumbai, Madras was renamed Chennai, and Calcutta turned into Kolkata. These changes reflect a broader desire to reclaim cultural heritage and linguistic authenticity.
The road from Kerala to Keralam is paved with cultural identity and political strategy. The renaming of the state is more than a simple administrative change; it is a profound assertion of cultural pride and regional identity. As the state moves forward with this new name, it sets a precedent for other regions to follow, emphasizing the importance of cultural expression and political symbolism in contemporary India.
The renaming of Kerala to Keralam is a reflection of the state’s rich cultural heritage and its ongoing journey towards reclaiming and celebrating its native identity. This change, while seemingly simple, carries significant cultural and political weight, marking a new chapter in the history of the region.
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