Shashi Tharoor’s Witty Take as Union Cabinet Approves Kerala’s Name Change to Keralam

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor offered a characteristically witty reaction to the proposed name change of Kerala on Tuesday, sparking conversation across political and cultural circles. Commenting on the move, Tharoor humorously questioned what would happen to commonly used terms such as “Keralite” and “Keralan” for the “denizens” of the newly proposed “Keralam”.

His remarks came shortly after the Union Cabinet cleared a proposal to officially alter the name of the southern Indian state.

Union Cabinet Approves Proposal to Rename Kerala as ‘Keralam’

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the proposal to change the name of Kerala to Keralam. The decision aligns with efforts to restore traditional and locally rooted names that better reflect linguistic and cultural heritage.

The move has drawn attention nationally, with political leaders, historians, and citizens weighing in on the cultural significance of the proposed change.

Next Step: Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026

Following the Union Cabinet’s approval, the President of India will now refer a draft legislation titled the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill, 2026 to the State Legislative Assembly of Kerala. This step is mandated under the proviso to Article 3 of the Constitution of India, which requires the President to seek the views of the concerned state legislature before any alteration of a state’s name.

The Kerala Assembly’s response will play a crucial role in determining the final outcome of the renaming process.

Cultural and Linguistic Significance of ‘Keralam’

The name Keralam is deeply rooted in the Malayalam language and local usage, making it a culturally resonant alternative to the anglicised Kerala. While administrative and legal procedures will take time, the proposal has already ignited public debate around identity, language, and tradition.

Shashi Tharoor’s light-hearted comment has added a relatable and human dimension to the discussion, reflecting how such changes impact not just governance, but everyday language and identity.

What Lies Ahead

If approved by the Kerala Legislative Assembly and subsequently enacted by Parliament, the state will officially be known as Keralam. The transition would involve updates across government records, signage, official communication, and legal documents.

As the process unfolds, the proposal remains a significant moment in India’s ongoing efforts to embrace indigenous nomenclature and cultural authenticity.