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 a wave of name changes, shedding their colonial tags and embracing names rooted in local languages. Madras transformed into Chennai, Bombay into Mumbai, and Calcutta into Kolkata—a nod to the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of the nation.

The process of renaming goes beyond the superficial alteration of signs and maps. It delves into the essence of identity and heritage. Take, for instance, the transformation of Madras into Tamil Nadu in 1967—a change deeply personal and meaningful for an entire generation.

But why do names hold such influence over us? Beyond being mere labels, names bestow upon us a unique identity. They shape the perception others have of us and guide the way we see ourselves. A name is akin to a character in a book; it’s a foundation upon which we build the intricacies of our persona throughout our lives.

Names encapsulate more than just a tag or placeholder; they encapsulate the essence of who we are. They evoke thoughts, emotions, and memories associated with an individual. When we think of someone, their name is often the first thing that springs to mind, and all other details follow suit.

Names are deeply ingrained in culture and language, transcending geographical boundaries. They reflect history, values, and identity. In India, for instance, we see the country referred to as “Inthia” in Tamil, “India” in English, “Bharata” in Hindi and Kannada. This variety of names mirrors the diverse linguistic and cultural landscape of our nation. We should have one common and strong name to define our heritage and culture across languages. 

Reflecting upon the power of names leads us to question why addressing someone by their profession is considered impolite. Even in situations like prison, where numbers are used instead of names, there’s a subtle message conveyed—a dehumanizing reminder of societal roles.

In essence, names are not just linguistic constructs; they are imbued with personal and societal significance. They are the pillars of our identity, reflecting our rich heritage and cultural tapestry. They deserve reverence and careful consideration as they carry the weight of our history, shaping the narrative of who we are.