Ajay Devgn Responds to Hindi-Marathi Language Debate at Film Event

Ajay Devgn's Take on Language Controversy

Mumbai, July 11: Actor Ajay Devgn embraced his ‘Singham’ persona while addressing the ongoing discussion surrounding the Hindi and Marathi languages.

During the trailer launch of “Son of Sardaar 2,” he was questioned about the language issue. True to his 'Singham' character, Ajay kept his response brief, quoting his famous line, “Aata Majhi Satakli.”

The debate ignited in April when the Maharashtra government mandated that Hindi be taught as a third language in state-run primary schools, alongside English and Marathi. This decision was intended to align with the national three-language policy, which advocates for students to learn three languages throughout their education.

Moreover, several incidents involving MNS activists targeting non-Marathi speakers have circulated widely on social media.

Numerous celebrities have expressed their support for linguistic diversity. Singer Udit Narayan recently commented on the Hindi-Marathi language debate, emphasizing the need to respect local languages and cultures. He stated, “We live in Maharashtra, and it is my 'Karma bhoomi' (workplace). Thus, the local language holds significance. All languages in our nation deserve equal respect.”

Veteran singer Anoop Jalota echoed similar views, stating, “Every language is vital in our country. We cherish Marathi. Hindi is our national language, and it should be spoken everywhere. However, knowing multiple languages is beneficial. Embrace your mother tongue, Hindi, while learning others.”

Actor Hrishikesh Pandey, known for his role in ‘CID,’ remarked that while respecting local languages is admirable, not everyone can easily learn a new language. In an interview, he noted, “Marathi is a source of pride for Maharashtra, just as Gujarati is for Gujarat or Bengali for Bengal. It’s essential to honor local languages, but India is diverse, and many come from different states for work. Not everyone can pick up a new language quickly.”

Recently, Raj Thackeray, the chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and Uddhav Thackeray from Shiv Sena (UBT) expressed their disapproval of Hindi being included as a third language in Marathi-medium and other government schools.