The Kerala assembly on Monday once again passed a resolution to change the state’s name to ‘Keralam’. Although a similar resolution was passed in 2023, it did not receive the Centre’s approval.
The Journey of Keralam
The Aikya Kerala movement in the 1920s advocated for a separate state for Malayalam speakers. This led to the formation of a state for Malayalam speakers in 1956. The state’s original name in its native language was Keralam, which was later changed to Kerala in the eighth schedule of the Constitution.
The term ‘Keralam’ has various historical connotations. Some theories link it to the Chera dynasty, suggesting that the term evolved from ‘Chera-alam’ (land of the Cheras) to ‘Kera-alam’. Another interpretation is that ‘Keralam’ means the land of coconuts, with ‘kera’ being the local term for coconuts, as mentioned in the book “Culture and Media: Ecocritical Explorations” by P.S. Sachindev.
During the Chera dynasty’s rule over the regions now known as Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Malayalam emerged as a distinct language from Tamil, blending with various regional dialects. This linguistic evolution fostered a unique cultural identity among Malayalam-speaking communities, eventually leading to the establishment of the state of Kerala.
The Process of Renaming Kerala to Keralam
The new resolution awaits the Centre’s approval once again. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has requested that the name be changed to Keralam in all languages listed in the eighth schedule of the Constitution and in all official records.
The push for renaming the state has been ongoing for many years. In 2010, then Chief Minister VS Achuthanandan, along with other legislators, raised the issue, but a resolution could not be passed. Changing a state’s name requires Parliament’s approval, which is a complex process. For instance, Orissa was renamed Odisha in 2011 under the Orissa (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2010. West Bengal has also attempted to change its name to ‘Paschim Banga’ in 2011 and 2016, but the Centre rejected the proposal in 2020.
The demand for renaming the state to ‘Keralam’, as it is known in Malayalam, has garnered support from both the ruling party and members of the opposition.
According to ANI, Indian Union Muslim League MP, ET Muhammed Basheer, remarked, “Instead of Kerala, it is better to have Keralam. That is the proper terminology.”