A social media post calling for non-Kannada speakers residing in Bengaluru to be treated as outsiders has reignited a long-standing debate about language and identity in the city. The post, which has gone viral on X (formerly Twitter), declared that “Bengaluru belongs to Kannadigas” and threatened those who don’t speak Kannada with being treated as outsiders.
The post, shared by user ‘Manju’ on September 6, has garnered over 5.5 million views and thousands of comments. The message sparked a wave of reactions, with many social media users criticizing the post’s divisive tone while others expressed support for the sentiment.
Those who opposed the post argued for mutual respect and understanding, emphasizing the difficulty of learning a new language quickly. Some pointed out their positive experiences in Bengaluru, where they had not encountered discrimination for their lack of Kannada fluency.
On the other hand, some users agreed with the post’s sentiment, highlighting the importance of preserving Kannada language and culture. They argued that newcomers should make an effort to learn the local language as a sign of respect for the city and its people.
The debate surrounding the post highlights the complex issue of cultural identity, language, and inclusion in a rapidly evolving city like Bengaluru. As the city becomes increasingly diverse, navigating these issues becomes crucial for fostering a sense of belonging and harmony among its residents.
