13 Things Every Tamilian Is Tired Of Hearing About
niharika nayakBA (Media & Communication) Experience: 4 yearsNiharika has a passion for all things art, music, and travel and has over 4 years of experience in writing for social media. During her spare time, she likes experimenting in the kitchen, playing vide... more
Tamil Nadu is a state that’s known for its beaches, temples, authentic South Indian food, and Carnatic music. Every city in Tamil Nadu has its own unique charm and heritage. From vast agricultural fields of Tiruchirapalli to the evergreen hills of Ooty, the state captures the beauty of South India picturesquely. Tamilian people themselves are known for being fiercely proud of their rich heritage and expansive cinema. Yes, Tamil Nadu is one of the few places in India where you can get a movie ticket under 150 rupees! However, due to Bollywood and Indian media, Tamilian people are often stereotyped and called offensive names. So let’s quash some common stereotypes associated with Tamilians:
1. “Yenna Rascala! Mind It”
Firstly, it isn’t even a Tamil saying! The term gained popularity after Shah Rukh Khan used it in the film Om Shanti Om. Although the saying is often accompanied by a picture of Tamil movie star Rajnikanth, he has absolutely NOTHING to do with this dialogue.
2. “You’re Fair For A South Indian”
You can’t just ask people why they’re fair or dark-skinned. It’s not something they have control over. Fair skin isn’t an oddity in South India and many people from various South Indian states are all shades of beige, brown, and white. Expecting all South Indians to be dark-skinned is like expecting all North Indians to only know Hindi.
3. “You Eat Meat! Aren’t You A Tam-Bram?”
Firstly, not all Tamilians are “Tam-Brams”. Secondly, what our families don’t know won’t harm them (we’re just kidding). Did you know that some of South India’s most exotic non-vegetarian dishes are from Tamil Nadu? Sink your teeth into Meen Kulambu, Prawn Varuval, and Duck gravy to get the authentic South Indian experience.
4. “Wait, You’re A Drinker Too?”
Since when did alcohol shops put out a signboard that says “No Tamilians Allowed”? If this were truly the case, there would be no bars or clubs in Chennai.
5. “Is Spaghetti And Curd Rice Actually A Thing?”
Looking at Chennai Express as an example of Tamil cuisine is very foolish. Not only are the accents exaggerated but everything else about the movie is too. No, we do not eat spaghetti and curd rice. That’s an even more insane combination than Pineapple on pizza (minus the taste)!
6. “Why Are Your Actors So Ugly?”
Firstly, who made you the gatekeeper of what qualifies as beautiful or ugly? Secondly, did you ever think that maybe it’s because Tamilians actually care about their actors’ acting? Just because some actors don’t fit into the conventional standards of beauty, it doesn’t mean they aren’t talented.
7. “Oh, I Know All About Your Culture Through Two States!”
Two States is not a prime example of our culture. If you truly want to know and understand Tamil culture, the best way to do so is to visit the state and see for yourself. Tamil Nadu will give you a plethora of locations to go to.
8. “Teach Me How To Lungi Dance”
Um, how about no? Just because we wear lungis doesn’t mean we dance in them or have a specific dance dedicated to them. Do you have a dhoti/dupatta dance?
9. “Okay, Teach Me How To Wear A Lungi”
Sure, let me just get my expandable lungi from my jeans pocket! Unless you’re attending some function, why would you even want to wear a lungi? Go appropriate someone else’s culture.
10. “I Bet You Were The Class Topper”
Just because you’re used to seeing shows like Tarak Mehta that showcase us as super nerdy, studious types, does not mean that we are. There’s so much more to our lives than just reading our textbooks and guides.
11. “Why Are Tamilians So Quiet?”
Did you ever think that we simply don’t have anything to talk to you about? Or maybe we’re just tired of listening to you speak in Hindi since we don’t speak the language ourselves? Stop judging us by limited interactions.
12. “Do All Girls Wear Jasmine In Their Hair?”
This depends entirely on the occasion. Do you wear formal clothes to the swimming pool? If that sounds ridiculous to you, how can you expect every Tamilian woman to be adorned in flowers?
13. “I Like My Tamilian Colleague. Teach Me How To Impress Her?”
Oh, this one’s so easy. Just go up to her and say, “naan paartha asingamana uyirinam nee thaan” (pun intended). We guarantee that she will be super impressed and will definitely ask you out on a date after this! You can take our word for it.
Being Tamilian is so much more than enjoying a good bowl of curd rice. There’s a reason why Tamilians are so proud of their heritage and culture. It’s because of their sense of community. And above all, it’s because of their love for all things food! Do let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.
