Mangaluru: A movement to rename Dakshina Kannada as Mangaluru district is gaining momentum, especially across social media and among leaders from various political parties and civil groups.
Yet, critics argue the move is largely symbolic, doing little to resolve pressing issues like growing communal divides, rising youth unemployment, and migration for better job opportunities.
Supporters point to the deep-rooted heritage of the name ‘Mangaluru.’ Ancient inscriptions from Maruturu in Andhra Pradesh and the Alupa dynasty (598–599 CE) refer to the region as Mangalapura — a name that has evolved but retained historical relevance.
They claim that ‘Dakshina Kannada’ lacks national recognition, while ‘Mangaluru’ is already a well-known identity — used in the names of the international airport, port, railway stations, industries like MRPL and MCF, and major educational hubs. A name change, they believe, would reflect the region’s cultural and economic center.
Before the states were reorganized linguistically, this region was part of South Canara under the Madras Presidency. In 1957, it was known as the Mangalore constituency until 2008, when it became Dakshina Kannada post-delimitation.
Historian Tukaram Poojary backs the renaming, also calling for Tulu to be included in the Constitution’s 8th Schedule. Political figures such as Ivan D’Souza and Vedavyasa Kamath argue the name aligns with historical and local identity, not imposed colonial-era terms.
However, some, like Muneer Katipalla, view the proposal as unnecessary, emphasizing larger issues need attention.
Mangaluru Renaming Drive Gains Steam, Sparks Debate