makkal

Makkal is a Tamil noun meaning “people” or “the public.” It is widely used in Tamil to denote the citizenry or the general populace, and it appears in formal discourse as well as everyday speech. The term is common in political, social, and cultural contexts, where it often signals a focus on the common people rather than a specific faction.

In modern politics, makkal is frequently used in party names, slogans, and campaigns to emphasize populist or people-centered aims. A notable example is Makkal Needhi Maiam, a political party in Tamil Nadu established in 2018 by actor Kamal Haasan. The inclusion of makkal in its name conveys an appeal to ordinary citizens and a commitment to public justice and accountability, aligning with the broader use of the word in political rhetoric.

Culturally, makkal appears in Tamil literature, media, and discourse to refer to the masses in discussions about democracy, social movements, and public life. It is also found in slogans and campaign materials intended to resonate with a broad audience of voters and citizens.

The term remains common in the Tamil-speaking world, including Tamil Nadu and the global Tamil diaspora, where it is used in news reporting, civil society, and cultural production to emphasize the role and voice of the people.