A Welcome in Kannada – A Small Gesture, A Big Step Toward Inclusivity
In a heartwarming moment that resonated with many, a Bengaluru-based traveller recently took to social media to share a pleasant surprise from his flight with Air France. While boarding a flight from Paris to Bengaluru, he heard something unexpected—announcements not only in French and English, but also in Kannada. “Such a warm welcome before I reached home,” he wrote, appreciating the gesture and thanking the airline for recognizing Kannada, one of India’s oldest regional languages.
This seemingly small moment sparked larger conversations online. Many applauded the move as a step toward cultural respect and inclusivity. “It’s common sense for international airlines to use the regional language when landing in India,” one user pointed out. The sentiment was clear: linguistic acknowledgment matters, especially in a country as diverse as India.
However, the discussion wasn't without controversy. Some critics expressed skepticism and even hostility, questioning the legitimacy of using Kannada in such settings. One individual went as far as accusing the poster of being "among the enemies of Kannadigas," highlighting how emotionally charged the subject of language can be.
But this wasn't the only development showing Kannada's growing visibility. The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru recently rolled out a Kannada language option on its official website. According to Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), the feature was introduced to make services more accessible and ensure that travelers could find necessary information in their native tongue. Hari Marar, CEO of BIAL, noted that the change aimed to create a more inclusive experience for all.
Together, these efforts—one by an international airline and another by a local airport—signal a broader cultural shift. In a globalized world, gestures like these reinforce the importance of preserving linguistic identity while embracing inclusivity. Whether you’re stepping off a plane or browsing for flight details, hearing or reading your language sends a powerful message: you belong.
As more institutions and services begin to recognize regional languages, we move closer to a society where every voice is not only heard but celebrated. And in the case of Kannada, it’s not just about language—it’s about home.
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