The Power of Names: Unveiling Identity and Culture
Names are powerful labels, bestowed upon us not by our own choosing, but by others in our lives. Be it our given names, the names we assign to pets, or even the names of places, they shape our perception and identity in profound ways. Consider our own names—typically chosen by our parents at birth, they carry significant meaning and history. In a similar vein, the names we give to our furry companions or cherished toys reflect our affection and sense of connection. Yet, names aren’t confined to personal domains alone. Throughout history, conquerors and invaders have wielded the power to rename lands and cities, altering the cultural fabric of the inhabitants. This renaming is both a reflection of authority and an attempt to exert influence over the conquered people. In a broader perspective, the renaming of cities and regions holds symbolic significance. It signifies a reclamation of cultural identity and pride. Rewinding the clock to about three decades ago, cities in India underwent ...