Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s recent proposal to rename Bengaluru’s beloved ‘Namma Metro’ as ‘Basava Metro’ in honor of the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna has sparked a lively debate among the city’s residents. The Chief Minister expressed his intention to recommend this change to the central government, noting that while he would have made the announcement himself for a state-government-led project, this requires central approval.
Siddaramaiah highlighted Basavanna’s timeless principles of equality and coexistence, stating that he personally follows these values and even took his oath as Chief Minister on Basava Jayanti. He aimed to honor Basavanna’s vision of equality through this proposed renaming.
However, the suggestion has met with considerable pushback on social media. Many Bengalureans expressed their deep connection to the name ‘Namma Metro,’ considering it a vital part of the city’s identity. Suggestions were made to perhaps name the city’s second airport after Basavanna instead, or to incorporate his teachings within the metro stations through displays and writings, rather than altering the metro’s brand.
Criticism also extended to the move being perceived as political maneuvering or an attempt to appease specific communities. Some users even suggested renaming the metro after Shankar Nag, a cultural icon. The sentiment from many was clear: focus on practical improvements like reducing metro fares rather than symbolic name changes.
The debate underscores a common sentiment that while honoring historical figures is important, it should not come at the expense of established city identity or by diverting attention from pressing operational and economic issues facing the metro system.