Using foreign names for Indian businesses has often sparked controversy, with some entities facing backlash, especially during times of geopolitical tension.
A prime example is Karachi Bakery, which frequently comes under fire from certain groups whenever issues arise involving Pakistan.
Despite the owners repeatedly clarifying that they are not Pakistanis, the name "Karachi" itself remains a sore point for so-called patriots.
Another case is that of Turkish Baklava, a dessert that has gained immense popularity in India over the past few years.
Today, it’s available in most sweet shops across the country, and specialized Turkish Baklava and Kunafa outlets have also emerged.
However, these establishments may face unwarranted criticism from hyper-nationalist groups simply because the dessert originates from Turkey — a nation currently seen by some as an ally of Pakistan.
On social media, memes and jokes have surfaced mocking irrational demands from certain emotional and uninformed factions.
One such joke suggests renaming the traditional sweet Mysore Pak to Mysore Bharat to make it sound more patriotic.
Similarly, during the Galwan Valley conflict with China, several small shops named China Bazaar in various Indian cities faced hostility.
These shops, which primarily sell inexpensive plastic goods, utensils, and disposable items, had been using the name for years. However, due to public sentiment, many of them were forced to rebrand.
Another example is Trump Towers, a luxury gated community project launched in several Indian cities.
Initially, the project saw huge enthusiasm, partly due to the perceived camaraderie between Donald Trump and Prime Minister Modi.
However, with recent developments suggesting Trump’s indifference or cold stance towards India, especially amid Indo-Pak tensions, public interest in the project appears to be waning.
Such naming controversies are not limited to businesses and desserts; they also extend to historical monuments.
In Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, there's a structure named Jinnah Tower, named after Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan.
Although the tower has historical significance dating back to the pre-independence era, there have been repeated calls to rename it, with the debate still ongoing.
