Mumbai, July 13
Madhavan is the latest celebrity to share his views on the ongoing Hindi-Marathi language row. He shared that he has never personally faced any issues related to language in India.
Drawing from his experiences across different states and cultures, he emphasized that language has never been a barrier in his life or career. When asked about the ongoing language and regional divide debates in India, Madhavan—who was raised in Jamshedpur (then Bihar, now Jharkhand)—shared that he has never personally experienced any difficulty due to language.
The ‘Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein’ actor told IANS, “No, I have never experienced it. I speak Tamil. I speak Hindi. And I have studied in Kolhapur also. I have learnt Marathi also. So, I have never had any problem because of language. Neither because of knowing it nor because of not knowing it.â€
For the unversed, the controversy first surfaced in April when the Maharashtra government directed state-run primary schools to introduce Hindi as a third language, in addition to Marathi and English. The move was reportedly in line with the national three-language policy, which aims to ensure students learn three languages during their education. Tensions escalated further when videos of MNS workers allegedly targeting non-Marathi speakers began circulating widely on social media.
Recently, at the trailer launch of “Son of Sardaar 2,†Ajay Devgn was asked to comment on the ongoing Hindi-Marathi language debate. The actor kept his response brief but impactful, slipping into his ‘Singham’ avatar with the popular line, “Aata Majhi Satakli.â€
Many celebrities have come forward to express their support for linguistic diversity amid the ongoing Hindi-Marathi language debate. Singer Udit Narayan emphasized the significance of respecting regional languages and cultures, noting that while he works in Maharashtra and values the local language, all Indian languages deserve equal recognition.
He told IANS, “We live in Maharashtra, and it is my 'Karma bhoomi' (workplace). So, the language here is also important. Along with that, all the languages in our country are equally important.â€
— IANS
Reader Comments
While I respect Madhavan's personal experience, we can't ignore that many working class people in Mumbai DO face discrimination for not speaking Marathi. My maid was harassed last month for this very reason. The issue is real for common people 😔
Ajay Devgn's "Aata Majhi Satakli" was epic! 😂 Sometimes humor is the best way to handle these sensitive topics. All Indian languages are beautiful - why can't we just celebrate them all instead of fighting?
As an expat living in Mumbai, I've found people incredibly accommodating with languages. Most switch to Hindi or English when they see I'm struggling with Marathi. The media makes this seem like a bigger issue than it is in daily life.
The three-language policy makes sense educationally, but implementation needs care. Forcing Hindi in Marathi schools while Hindi states don't reciprocate with regional languages feels unfair. Either make it equal across India or let states decide!
Udit Narayan said it best - all languages are important! I'm Maharashtrian but love Bollywood songs in Hindi and Tamil films too. Language is about connection, not division â¤ï¸ Let's teach our kids this inclusive mindset.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.