Frankenstein vs. Hitler

Behold, one example of the impact of colonialism:

Politicians named after Adolf Hitler and Frankenstein are among 345 candidates competing in elections this week in a northeast Indian state with a history of bizarre naming conventions. Keeping them company when the hilly state of Meghalaya goes to the polls on Saturday are others called Bombersingh, Boldness Billykid, Predecessor and Process.

Hopingstone Lyngdoh, Hilarious Pochen and Hopeful Bamon will also try their luck at nabbing one of the 60 seats up for grabs in the state legislative assembly. The unusual names chosen in Meghalaya are among the most striking legacies of colonial rule, when many Britons frequented state capital Shillong, preferring its temperate climate to the searing heat of the rest of India.

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Justin Green

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