'Proud Moment For Kannadigas': Hindu MP Chandra Arya Officially Joins Canada’s PM Race, Speaks In Kannada In Parliament

In a defining moment for Kannadigas worldwide, Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya has officially entered the race to become Canada's next Prime Minister after addressing the Canadian Parliament in Kannada.

Representing Nepean in Ottawa, Arya made the announcement after filing his nomination, and said, “It is a proud moment for about 5 crore Kannadigas that a person from Shira taluk of Tumkur district in Karnataka has been elected as a Member of Parliament in Canada and is now speaking in Kannada in this esteemed institution.” 

The Hindu MP's speech resonated deeply with his community, emphasising the strength of cultural roots even on a global stage.

Concluding his address, Arya paid tribute to Kannada poet laureate Rashtrakavi Kuvempu, quoting the iconic line, "Elladaru iru enthadaru iru endendigu nee Kannadavaagiru, Kannadave Sathya Kannadave Nithya," popularised by the legendary actor Rajkumar. 

The verse, which translates to “Be wherever you are, be however you are, always be a Kannadiga; Kannada is truth, Kannada is eternal,” underscored Arya’s pride in his heritage and his commitment to his identity.

Announcing his candidacy for Prime Minister ahead of the Liberal Party meeting, Arya expressed his vision for Canada. “I am running to be the next Prime Minister of Canada to lead a small, more efficient government to rebuild our nation and secure prosperity for future generations,” he declared in a post on X. 

Arya acknowledged that Canada is “facing significant structural problems” unseen in generations, emphasising the need for bold decisions. “For the sake of our children and grandchildren, we must make bold decisions that are absolutely necessary,” he said, calling for transformative leadership.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) noted Arya’s emphasis on creating a smaller, more efficient government with a cabinet selected on merit rather than quotas based on diversity, equity, and inclusion. This perspective has positioned Arya as a candidate focused on pragmatic governance.

Arya’s candidacy represents a significant milestone for the Kannadiga diaspora, showcasing the global impact of Indian-origin leaders while highlighting the enduring connection between cultural pride and political ambition.