India

Tamil Nadu: Residents protest ‘Hindi imposition’ with kolam and graffiti; videos go viral

A screengrab of the video showing kolams outside houses in Mayiladuthurai, Tamil Nadu.

Mayiladuthurai: In a unique demonstration against the government of India’s alleged imposition of Hindi, residents of Mayiladuthurai staged a protest by drawing vibrant kolams at their doorsteps. The intricate designs carried strong messages, including slogans like “Long Live Tamil” and “Do Not Impose Hindi on India.”

Kolam is a type of rangoli, especially in South India. Kolam is a traditional art form that involves drawing geometric patterns on the floor using coloured flour, chalk, or white stone powder.

The protest reflects growing concerns over linguistic identity in Tamil Nadu, where opposition to Hindi imposition has historically been a sensitive issue. Residents used the traditional art form of kolam to voice their resistance while reinforcing their cultural pride.

The demonstration comes amid ongoing debates over language policies in the country, with Tamil Nadu continuing to advocate for the preservation and promotion of regional languages.

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