Debunking the Stereotypes: Why My Name Matters

Every day, as a SEOer, I receive countless messages on Quora, ranging from greetings, personal inquiries, to seeking advice. However, there is one question that consistently pops up: why I add my surname Naidu to my name. This question is often accompanied by assumptions about my religious and social identity. In this article, I will explain why this name matters to me and how it reflects my values of equality and pride.

Why People Ask About My Surname Naidu?

Every week, at least three times, someone asks why I add Naidu to my name. These messages reveal a misunderstanding of caste and religious identity. People often assume that by adding a surname, I am promoting inequality and showing pride in a specific social or religious group. However, this is far from the truth.

Understanding the Legacy of India's Caste System

India's caste system, a complex social hierarchy, has deep roots in history. In times when specific professions like doctors, engineers, soldiers, and teachers were not recognized, people were categorized based on their caste. This system was man-made and evolved over centuries. Today, it is crucial to understand that caste is neither a measure of intelligence nor a badge of honor. It is merely a historical identity, used to identify the kind of work individuals did in ancient times.

The Role of Religion in Modern Society

When I was asked to consider M.S. Swaminathan's view, I noticed a pattern. The name Swaminathan is a Hindu name, which implies a deep connection with religion and cultural heritage in multiple languages. This reflects the promotion of religious identities through various names. However, I argue that adding a caste name, like Naidu, does not equate to promoting inequality. It is a simple way to express pride in my ancestors and my identity.

Protecting Cultural Heritage and Language

Every message questioning my actions also includes comments about my mother tongue and cultural heritage. Some people warn me to teach my kids Tamil, as I reside in Tamil Nadu, while others criticize the idea of teaching Indian languages to children. This debate highlights the tension between preserving traditional languages and embracing modern education. I believe that maintaining our mother tongue, whether it's Tamil, Telugu, or any other Indian language, is crucial for our cultural identity.

Personal Experiences of Identity and Equality

When I added the surname Naidu, it faced initial resistance. My Quora account was flagged several times, which only reinforced my decision to keep it. Understanding the historical context, I explained that castes were used to indicate work roles and are no longer relevant in contemporary society. I shared my own experiences, where I witnessed a school parent demanding that children learn Japanese or French as a second language over Tamil, which they consider a foreign language.

The Real Issues Behind Caste and Religion

Many arguments against caste and religion overlook the real issues of inequality and discrimination. Honour killings, for instance, occur due to various reasons including religion, caste, and social status. Adding Naidu, is not a symbol of pride, but a reminder of my ancestors' achievements. I am proud of my Kamma Naidu heritage, and I feel a deep connection to my ancestors who fought for our land.

Quoting Past Ancestors and Future Generations

Kamma Naidus, Balija Naidus, Eediga Naidus—these terms are merely historical references to job roles. My pride in being a Kamma Naidu stems from the legacy of my ancestors, not from a desire to create divisions. I urge everyone to treat people equally, regardless of their caste, religion, or gender.

Ramu, Irfan, Peter, Tamilsilais, Diya, Sharma, Sukumar, Ray, Arjun, Reddy, and Shankaram Pillai—these names are not about division; they are about unity and pride in being a part of a diverse, rich cultural heritage.

Let us all strive for a future where identities are not defined by religion, language, or gender, but by our shared humanity. Only then can we achieve true equality.

Conclusion

While adding the surname Naidu may appear contentious, it is a way for me to express pride in my roots and ancestors. This is not about promoting inequality but about recognizing the historical significance of my heritage. By embracing our diverse identities, we can work towards a more equitable and harmonious society.

Call to Action

Let us all treat every individual as an equal, regardless of their background. Promote unity and respect for all identities. If you can, share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Together, we can make a difference.