A fresh political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik referred to Hindi as the “dear sister” of Marathi and said it has now become the spoken language of Mumbai. The remark, made during a public event in Mumbai, has invited sharp criticism from the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), who see it as a slight against Marathi identity.
Sarnaik’s Statement: "Hindi Is Our Dear Sister"
While speaking at the event, Pratap Sarnaik stated, “Marathi is our mother tongue, but now Hindi has become the spoken language of Mumbai. Hindi is our dear sister.” He added that while people often claim Marathi as their first language, day-to-day conversations in Mumbai frequently include Hindi and English, making Hindi a commonly spoken language across the city.
He further explained that his **constituencies—Thane and Mira Bhayandar—**are linguistically diverse, and while he always tries to speak in pure Marathi, interacting with the public often results in a natural switch to Hindi. “When I go to Mira Bhayandar, Hindi automatically comes out of my mouth,” he said.
Political Reactions: Shiv Sena and MNS Lash Out
Sarnaik’s statement did not sit well with many political parties, particularly those aligned with Marathi pride and identity.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut reacted strongly, stating, “Balasaheb Thackeray founded the Shiv Sena to protect and promote the interests of Marathi people. Today, those who claim to be his political heirs are making such statements. This is not what Balasaheb stood for.”
Raut further alleged that such remarks reflect the ideology of the BJP and sarcastically remarked, “The actual leader of their party is Amit Shah, and they are simply echoing what he wants to hear.”
MNS Issues Strong Warning
Echoing similar sentiments, MNS leader Yashwant Kiledar expressed deep disappointment and criticized Sarnaik’s comments. He questioned the Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, demanding whether such language is acceptable from his ministers. “Are we now supposed to watch Mumbai’s Marathi identity be diluted for electoral gains?” he asked.
Kiledar passionately defended Marathi as the identity of Mumbai and Maharashtra, stating, “The language of my king, my state, and my ancestors is Marathi. Mumbai belongs to Marathi people just as much as anyone else.” He also pointed out that earlier, some ministers in the Shinde-led government had even suggested giving Hindi the status of a national language, which MNS strongly opposed.
Growing Sensitivity Around Language Politics
This is not the first time language has become a flashpoint in Maharashtra politics. The state has long been protective of its Marathi linguistic heritage, especially in cities like Mumbai, where migration and demographic shifts have increased the prominence of Hindi and other languages. Political parties such as Shiv Sena and MNS have historically built their identity on the Marathi pride movement, and any comments perceived as diluting that ethos quickly trigger public and political backlash.
