Kochi: Malayalam writer N S Madhavan sparked a lively discussion on social media with his tweet about food choices on Vande Bharat Express trains. He pointed out the absence of South Indian dishes, which he called a “food imposition.” This remark comes amidst ongoing conversations about language use in different states.
Madhavan shared a photo of the snacks available on the Bengaluru-Coimbatore route, which mainly featured packaged options like chiwda and instant masala tea. He questioned why the menu didn’t showcase the rich variety of South Indian cuisine, prompting many online reactions. Some agreed with him, suggesting that train menus should reflect regional tastes. One user expressed that it’s surprising how the central government overlooks these aspects of catering.
However, not everyone agreed with Madhavan’s view. Some pointed out that South Indian foods are readily available across the country, with one user saying, “There’s idli from Kashmir to Kanyakumari; no one complains about imposition.” Others felt the focus should be on improving the overall food quality rather than debating regional options.
Madhavan is no stranger to controversy. He has been critical of the current government’s attempts to promote Hindi in non-Hindi-speaking regions. In previous comments, he has highlighted how policies like the three-language formula have been misapplied over the years. He believes this could eventually sideline local languages, which concerns many advocates of regional culture and identity.
In a broader context, discussions about food, language, and cultural representation are not new to India. A recent survey by the National Council of Applied Economic Research found that consumers feel strongly about regional foods being featured in public services. They believe it helps preserve local flavors and traditions, which are vital to India’s diverse identity.
As these conversations unfold, it’s clear that food and language remain central to how people connect with their heritage. Whether it’s through the meals served on trains or the languages spoken in schools, these choices reflect our diverse backgrounds and shed light on the need for inclusivity in public spaces.
For more insights into the significance of food representation in public transport, check out the National Council of Applied Economic Research for their findings on consumer preferences.
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