In a significant move reflecting the state’s cultural and linguistic identity, the Kerala Assembly has passed a unanimous resolution to rename the state from “Kerala” to “Keralam”. This decision, made on June 24, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in the state’s history, as it aims to align the official name with the local pronunciation and traditional nomenclature.
Historical and Cultural Context
The term “Keralam” holds deep-rooted significance in the Malayalam language, which is the official language of the state. Historically, the word “Keralam” has been used by the local population to refer to their land. The name is believed to have originated from the ancient Chera dynasty, which ruled the region. The suffix “am” in Malayalam denotes a place or a land, thereby making “Keralam” a more linguistically and culturally appropriate name.
Legislative Process
The resolution was introduced in the Kerala Legislative Assembly by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. It received unanimous support from all political parties, showcasing a rare moment of unity in the assembly. The Chief Minister emphasized that the change was not just a linguistic correction but also a step towards preserving the cultural heritage of the state.
The resolution has been forwarded to the Central Government for approval. According to the Constitution of India, any change in the name of a state requires the assent of both the state legislature and the Parliament.
Reasons for the Change
- Cultural Identity: The name “Keralam” is more reflective of the state’s cultural and linguistic heritage. It aligns with the local vernacular and historical references.
- Linguistic Accuracy: In Malayalam, the term “Keralam” is widely used by the people, making it linguistically accurate. The current name “Kerala” is seen as an anglicized version of the original name.
- Preservation of Heritage: Renaming the state to “Keralam” is part of a broader initiative to preserve and promote the state’s cultural and historical identity.
Implications of the Change
If approved by the Central Government, the renaming will necessitate changes across various administrative, legal, and official documents. This includes updating maps, government records, and public signages to reflect the new name. Moreover, educational materials and state branding efforts will also need to be revised.
Public Reaction
The public reaction to the resolution has been overwhelmingly positive. Many residents feel that the name change is a long-overdue recognition of their cultural identity. Social media platforms have seen widespread support for the move, with hashtags like #Keralam and #ProudKeralite trending among users.
Local historian Dr. Radhika Menon stated, “This move by the Kerala Assembly is a significant step towards acknowledging and respecting the linguistic and cultural uniqueness of the state. It’s not just a change of name but a reclamation of our identity.”
Conclusion
The resolution to rename Kerala to Keralam is a historic decision that underscores the importance of cultural and linguistic identity in the modern world. As the proposal awaits approval from the Central Government, the people of Kerala are hopeful and proud of this step towards aligning their state’s official name with its historical and cultural essence.
This change not only respects the local vernacular but also strengthens the cultural heritage that the state of Keralam is proud of.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the full articles on The Hindu and India Today.
