Tensions rise in Maharashtra over the Marathi language issue. From a viral abusive video to political protests and trader assaults, the state sees rallies, apologies, and policy rollbacks amid cultural clashes.
MUMBAI, JULY 5: Maharashtra is witnessing rising tensions over the Marathi language, as recent political decisions and public incidents have stirred statewide reactions — from political rallies to police complaints and market shutdowns.
After the Mahayuti government made Marathi language compulsory in state institutions, a political storm erupted. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray reacted strongly and announced a united front with his cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray to oppose the government’s move allegedly leaning towards Hindi imposition in school education. The pressure resulted in the state rolling back its decision to mandate Hindi from Class 1.
Adding fuel to the fire, a controversial video posted by Marathi actress Rajshree More on Instagram has sparked public outrage. In the video, Rajshree made derogatory remarks against the Marathi community, stating that “Marathis lack work ethic” and that Mumbai would suffer if migrants left. These comments drew swift condemnation. MNS workers from the Versova Assembly segment immediately approached Oshiwara Police and lodged a complaint. Facing backlash, Rajshree More was forced to issue a public apology and delete the video.
Meanwhile, incidents on the ground have mirrored these tensions. Two days ago, a trader in Mira Road was allegedly assaulted by MNS workers for not speaking Marathi. The incident sparked a bandh (shutdown) in the local trading community and a protest march, reflecting the growing unrest.
Amidst all this, Raj Thackeray continues to push the narrative that every resident of Maharashtra must be able to speak Marathi, a stance echoed in the rally scheduled today in Mumbai where both Thackeray cousins will share the stage.
These events underline a deeper cultural and linguistic divide that’s surfacing once again in Maharashtra — raising questions about identity, integration, and the role of language in public life.
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