Recently, India has found itself at the centre of a heated debate over the possible renaming of the country from ‘India’ to ‘Bharat.’ This development has not only stirred up political tensions but has also ignited a firestorm of reactions across internet on social media platforms
A Shift in Official Terminology
The controversy began with reports suggesting that the Central government had initiated the inclusion of the name ‘Bharat’ in official documents and communications. Notably, there has been no official confirmation from the ruling party regarding this proposed name change.
Rashtrapati Bhawan has sent out an invite for a G20 dinner on Sept 9th in the name of 'President of Bharat' instead of the usual 'President of India'.
— MODAK🥟 (@whothef_kyouare) September 5, 2023
Now, Article 1 in the Constitution can read: “Bharat, that was India, shall be a Union of Janapadas (States).” pic.twitter.com/rha6QGhZR5
One significant incident that fuelled these speculations was the issuance of invitations for a G20 dinner scheduled for September 9th. The official invitations, emanating from Rashtrapati Bhawan, the President’s official residence, referred to the head of state as the ‘President of Bharat‘ instead of the customary ‘President of India.’ This change in terminology left many pondering its implications.
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The Internet’s Reaction
The news of a potential name change sparked an immediate and passionate reaction on social media platforms. Users from all walks of life, including politicians, scholars, and the general public, took to various online platforms to express their opinions and concerns.
So the news is indeed true.
— Jairam Ramesh (@Jairam_Ramesh) September 5, 2023
Rashtrapati Bhawan has sent out an invite for a G20 dinner on Sept 9th in the name of 'President of Bharat' instead of the usual 'President of India'.
Now, Article 1 in the Constitution can read: “Bharat, that was India, shall be a Union of States.”…
The discussion on Twitter
One of the recurring themes in the online discussion was the connection between this move and the ongoing political dynamics in India. The ‘INDIA’ alliance, formed by more than two dozen opposition parties, has been a focal point of contention, with some speculating that the name change might be an attempt to counter this opposition coalition.
President of India to President of Bharat!
— Mannu (@mannu_meha) September 5, 2023
Just because the Opposition Alliance uses the name INDIA, they are changing the India name to Bharat?!
Insecurity at its peak🤦 pic.twitter.com/qmS694Wjfl
Others questioned the need for such a change, especially since the Indian Constitution recognises both the names as interchangeable names for the nation. A common sentiment echoed by netizens was, “Is there even a legal requirement for a name change resolution?
Is there even a legal need for any resolution for name change? The Constitution already says India, that is Bharat…
— Kajal K Iyer (@Kajal_Iyer) September 5, 2023
The online discourse also revealed a divide among the populace, with some individuals applauding the use of ‘Bharat,arguing that it signifies a return to India’s cultural roots and distances the country from colonial-era nomenclature. Conversely, many expressed concerns about the potential confusion and logistical challenges that a name change might pose, both domestically and internationally.
“Bharat is a Hindu land with Hindu culture where everyone has a bond. People should use the name Bharat instead of India.”-RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat pic.twitter.com/X4kBKRjgqZ
— Prof.N John Camm (@njohncamm) September 2, 2023
Reactions on Instagram
In the realm of social media, the reaction to the potential name change was as diverse as the platforms themselves. While Twitter users delved into detailed discussions, attempting to unravel the socio-political implications of this debate. They analysed the historical context and speculated on the government’s motivations behind such a move. Meanwhile, on Instagram, a different facet of the internet’s response emerged. Memes flooded the platform as users employed humour to digest the news.
Creative minds reimagined the titles of iconic Bollywood movies, replacing ‘India’ with ‘Bharat,’ offering a comical perspective on the potential name change. Moreover, Instagram users couldn’t resist the opportunity to highlight how certain Bollywood dialogues had seemingly anticipated this development by already using ‘Bharat’ instead of ‘India,’ playfully suggesting that the world of entertainment had a prescient touch when it came to linguistic trends.
As the debate rages on, it remains to be seen whether the Central government will provide official confirmation regarding the proposed name change. Until then, the internet will likely continue to buzz with discussions, speculations, and passionate reactions on this contentious issue that touches on both identity and politics in India.