In recent times, we see a growing trend — many Hindus dropping their caste titles from their names, believing that doing so will erase the divisions among us. But the real question is — will those who have always wanted to divide Hindus stop there? Absolutely not.
The truth is, caste was never the enemy. The real poison is the mindset — the feeling of being “upper” or “lower.” Both are wrong. And unless we address this deeper problem, merely dropping a surname or caste title will solve nothing.
Understanding the Real Spirit of Hinduism
Hinduism was never about “only one.” It is built on diversity, acceptance, and harmony in many forms — many gods, many paths, many philosophies, and yes, many communities.
Our core mantra has always been:
“Unity in Diversity.”
Caste, when originally structured, was a system of responsibilities, duties, and skills. It represented the legacy of our ancestors, not a hierarchy. It was never intended to create discrimination, but rather to preserve and pass on knowledge, tradition, and social order.
Caste Is Identity, Not Inequality
Let us ask honestly:
Does a person become lesser by the name they carry?
Absolutely not. Your caste, like your surname or your language, is just a part of your ancestral identity.
Just as every person considers their own mother the greatest, even if she isn’t the most beautiful or educated, in the same way, one’s caste is also like a mother — yours is dearest to you, and others’ are to them.
The answer lies not in denying our roots, but in mutual respect.
Pride Is the Answer, Not Shame
When people remove their caste titles thinking it will end discrimination, they forget — those who truly want to see Hindus divided will find other ways. Today it’s caste, tomorrow it could be region, language, or ideology.
The problem is not caste. The problem is the injected thought that one is higher and another lower.
One of my friends, Satish S. Pulayar, uses “Pulayar” — a Scheduled Caste title — proudly with his name. He hasn’t erased it. Instead, he wears it with honour and strength. His confidence is a source of inspiration to many others who share his heritage.
Don’t Run From Your Name — Rise With It
We don’t need to erase our caste. We need to elevate it.
Let your name be a symbol of transformation.
Do something remarkable for society, and let your community see what greatness can come from among them.
When someone sees a successful, compassionate, respected person proudly using a caste title, it becomes a spark in their heart:
“If he/she can do it, so can I.”
Let us not force anyone — if you don’t wish to use your caste title, that’s your personal choice.
But if you do want to, do it with pride and purpose.
Whether you keep it or not, your roots remain the same, your ancestors remain the same.
One Hindu Society, Many Glorious Branches
This is not a call to divide. It’s a call to reclaim unity by respecting diversity.
Let each community take pride in their contribution, in their lineage, and in their role in this great civilisation.
Let us not fight caste — let us fight the discrimination attached to it.
Let us not reject our names — let us rise with them.
Let us be proud Hindus, proud of our past, committed to our present, and united for a better future.
Together, let’s build a society of peace, strength, and compassion — where every name, every caste, and every heart stands tall.
