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The small village of Thulasendrapuram in Tamil Nadu, India, is caught in the throes of the US presidential election, its residents glued to their television screens, anxiously following the live updates of the race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. For the villagers, Harris, affectionately dubbed the “daughter of the soil,” is more than just a candidate; she is a symbol of their shared heritage, her ancestral roots intertwined with the very fabric of their community. This sentiment is palpable in the village, where every resident, irrespective of political affiliation, shares a fervent hope for her victory.
The initial disappointment at Harris's trailing position in the early results was evident in the subdued atmosphere that engulfed the village. However, this initial dejection was quickly replaced by a resilient optimism, fueled by the unwavering faith in Harris's potential. As the election unfolded, the villagers, united in their hope for a Harris win, continued to follow the trends, each electoral vote adding to the mounting anticipation. Even amidst the tense atmosphere, the spirit of unity prevailed, transcending political boundaries. DMK and AIADMK, political rivals, found common ground in their shared support for Harris, coming together to discuss the election results and the intricacies of the US electoral system.
Beyond the political significance, the villagers are deeply proud of Harris's connection to their community. This pride is rooted in the stories they share about Harris's grandfather, P.V. Gopalan, a former resident of the village who once lived in the Agraharam, a Brahmin colony. They reminisce about Harris's mother, Shyamala Gopalan, and her aunt, Sarala Gopalan, their narratives woven with a mix of hearsay and familial affection. While most villagers only discovered Harris's ancestral link to the village during her 2020 vice-presidential run, her presence has instilled a sense of belonging, a connection to the global stage. Even though Harris's ancestral property in the village is valued at Rs 10 lakh, its monetary value pales in comparison to the pride it brings to the villagers, a tangible testament to their shared heritage.
The villagers' hope for Harris's victory is not merely a personal aspiration; it is a collective yearning for recognition, a desire for their community to be acknowledged on the world stage. It is a testament to the enduring power of heritage and the deep sense of pride that binds people to their roots. Win or lose, Harris's presence in the US election has brought Thulasendrapuram into the global spotlight, etching their story onto the international landscape. Their journey, intertwined with Harris's, reflects the intricate tapestry of human connections, transcending geographical boundaries and highlighting the shared heritage that binds us all.
Source: ‘Win or lose, she’s our pride’: Thulasendrapuram village in Tamil Nadu rallies behind Kamala Harris