In a recent development that has caught the attention of the public and stirred up conversations on social media, the Gujarat state government has taken the decision to rename the exotic fruit known as dragon fruit. The new name chosen for this fruit is ‘Kamalam’, which has led to a mix of reactions online, with some expressing their criticism under the hashtag #SanskariFruitSabzi.
Rationale Behind Renaming Dragon Fruit
The Chief Minister of Gujarat has explained that the renaming of dragon fruit to ‘Kamalam’ is based on the fruit’s appearance. According to the minister, the outer shape of the dragon fruit bears resemblance to a lotus, which is known as ‘Kamal’ in Sanskrit and various Indian languages. The word ‘Kamalam’ is also associated with the lotus and is considered an auspicious symbol in Indian culture. The move to give the fruit a local name is partly due to the fact that it is being cultivated by farmers in regions such as Navsari and Kutch within the state.
Patenting the Name ‘Kamalam’
The Gujarat state government has not only changed the name but also applied for a patent for the newly named ‘Kamalam’ fruit. This step was announced during the inauguration of the Chief Minister Horticulture Development Mission, which is a program aimed at boosting horticulture in the less productive areas of the state. By patenting the name, the state aims to create a unique identity for the fruit that is increasingly being grown locally.
The Horticulture Development Mission
The Chief Minister Horticulture Development Mission launched by the Gujarat government is a scheme designed to promote the growth of horticulture in the state, particularly in regions where traditional agriculture has been unproductive. The mission includes various initiatives to support farmers and increase the production of fruits and vegetables, thereby contributing to the state’s agricultural diversity and economy.
Public and Political Reactions
Despite the government’s assertion that the renaming of dragon fruit to ‘Kamalam’ is a non-political move, the decision has been met with skepticism and ridicule on various social media platforms. Many users have taken to Twitter to express their dissent, using the hashtag #SanskariFruitSabzi to mock the rechristening. The renaming has sparked a debate over the necessity and implications of changing the names of fruits, with some viewing it as unnecessary and others seeing it as a way to promote local culture.
In conclusion, while the Gujarat government’s decision to rename dragon fruit as ‘Kamalam’ has been justified by cultural references and the encouragement of local agriculture, it has also opened up discussions on the role of politics in cultural and agricultural matters. Whether this renaming will stand the test of time or be remembered as a fleeting controversy remains to be seen.
