Childhood Mockery Fuels Name Change, Sparks Debate on Identity and Personal Autonomy

An interview featuring an individual identified as Yogendra, formerly known as Salim, has ignited discussions surrounding the profound impact of childhood mockery on personal identity and the right to choose one's name. The exchange, shared on social media by "News Algebra," highlighted Yogendra's decision to change his birth name due to persistent teasing during his early school years. > "Salim was my real name. There was a lot of questioning and mocking in school when I was four years old," Yogendra stated in the interview, explaining the catalyst for his name change. This personal revelation underscores the significant psychological distress that name-based bullying can inflict on children, often leading to diminished self-esteem and social withdrawal, according to recent studies. The interview took a sharp turn when the interviewer challenged Yogendra, asking, "Then why don’t you change it back to Salim now?" Yogendra promptly retorted, "Why should I change it? Why don’t you change yours?" This exchange emphasizes a defense of personal autonomy and the right to maintain an chosen identity, even when confronted with past trauma or societal expectations. Experts note that name-based bullying, while seemingly innocuous, can have lasting emotional and psychological effects, impacting a child's self-perception and willingness to engage socially. Research indicates that children with uncommon or culturally distinct names are often targets of ridicule, leading to feelings of injustice and a struggle with identity. Yogendra's firm stance suggests a journey of reclaiming agency over his identity, moving past the initial pain of mockery to assert his current chosen name.