Bengaluru Belongs to Kannadigas’: Man’s Rules for ‘Outsiders’ Ignite Controversy Online

A recent post by a karnataka resident has sparked a significant online debate after he addressed non-Kannada speakers arriving in Bengaluru, often referred to as the Silicon Valley of India. The man’s message claimed that anyone who does not speak or make an effort to learn kannada would be considered an “outsider” in the city. He further asserted that Bengaluru “belongs to Kannadigas.”

In his post on X, he wrote, “To everyone coming to Bengaluru: You will be treated as outsiders if you don’t speak kannada or make an effort to learn it. Write it down, share it around. We aren’t joking. Bengaluru belongs to Kannadigas, period.” The message, shared on september 6, has since gone viral with over 5.5 million views, and the numbers continue to rise. Many users have taken to the comments to voice their opinions.

Here’s how people have reacted:

“Lol. It only applies to Indians, I guess. If a foreigner comes, you guys will treat him like royalty no matter which language he speaks,” one user remarked.
Another comment read, “To all Kannadigas going to other states for work: You will not be treated as an outsider if you don’t speak their languages or make an effort to do so. Write it down, share it around. You will be treated as an indian anywhere.” This commenter emphasized that respect should be mutual, noting that learning a language takes time.
A third person added, “Yet you’re using English, an ‘outsider’ language, to publish this message. If you’re so committed, then stop using English. Write on social media in kannada and see how that impacts your language and state development.”
The post has generated a wide range of responses, highlighting the complex dynamics of language, identity, and regional pride in India.





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