In a backdrop of escalating linguistic nationalism protests in Bengaluru, a viral post by Bihar-based influencer Upasana Mishra has stirred the digital realm, prompting a flood of memes and spirited discussions on social media platforms.
Amid the heightened tensions catalysed by the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike (KRV) protests, primarily against the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike’s (BBMP) directive mandating 60% Kannada content on commercial signboards, Upasana Mishra took to a popular platform to extend a surprising invitation. She called upon companies in Karnataka to consider investing in Bihar, emphasizing the state’s supportive environment for businesses.
Her post resonated across digital platforms, garnering significant attention and sparking a meme trend that quickly dominated discussions online. Mishra’s gesture, aimed at fostering unity and encouraging cross-state investment, evoked varied responses from netizens.
While a segment of the online community humorously highlighted Bihar’s infrastructural challenges, many lauded Mishra’s initiative, viewing it as a beacon of solidarity amidst the linguistic tensions. The influx of posts and memes related to Bihar’s invitation to Karnataka businesses became so pervasive that ‘Biharis’ swiftly ascended to a prominent position on the trending list.
The KRV-led protests, ignited by the BBMP’s language mandate, escalated dramatically, resulting in acts of vandalism targeting non-compliant signboards across Bengaluru. This fervent wave of activism culminated in the temporary closure of two of the city’s renowned shopping hubs, Phoenix Mall of Asia in Hebbal and Phoenix Marketcity in Whitefield, further intensifying the discourse on linguistic rights and commercial obligations.
