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Hindi or Marathi? Why Maharashtra’s Language Debate Is Back

July 8, 2025, 3:56 pm

The Hindi imposition controversy in Maharashtra has flared up again after the Devendra Fadnavis government canceled a contentious resolution on the three-language formula. The decision, which had initially sought to implement Hindi from Class 1 in Marathi and English medium schools, has now precipitated a massive political and social backlash.

A day before the Monsoon Session, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared that the government was withdrawing the language policy and constituting a committee to examine its implementation. “We are withdrawing the GR,” Fadnavis said in a press conference in Mumbai on Tuesday.

The reversal followed a strong recommendation from the Language Advisory Committee, which urged the Chief Minister to avoid introducing a third language, especially Hindi, before Class 5. The committee passed a resolution warning against early language imposition and stressed the primacy of Marathi in the state’s education system.

The Controversial Order That Sparked the Row

The row broke out after the state changed its education policy, announcing that Hindi would be “generally” taught as a third language from Classes 1 to 5. The order provided a buffer zone—if at least 20 students in each class chose another Indian language, schools could appoint a different teacher or have online classes for teaching.

Yet, Opposition parties like the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) saw the move as one that tried to push Marathi aside and favor Hindi. People soon raised their voices in protest, turning the rollback into a state-wide phenomenon.

Thackeray Cousins Reunite Over Language Protest

In an unusual political moment, estranged cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray appeared on the same platform for the first time in almost two decades. The reunion was at a “mega victory gathering” in Mumbai to celebrate the government’s withdrawal of the Hindi mandate.

Making a dig at Fadnavis, Raj Thackeray announced, “Fadnavis has managed to do what even Bal Thackeray could not.” The remark elicited applause from party workers and marked a moment of consensus between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS on the issue of language.

Tensions Spill Over to the Streets

Street-level violence has also intensified. A video went viral where people—some of them clad in MNS scarves—attacked a food stall operator and demanded that he use Marathi. This led to counter-protests from local businessmen.

The workers of MNS retaliated by taking out a rally at Mira Road, Thane, which resulted in several detentions. Fadnavis responded to the situation strongly, saying, “Strict action will be taken against those who take the law into their own hands.”

Amid a passionate argument, an old video of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray has surfaced. In it, he says, “I may be Marathi in Maharashtra but I am Hindu in Bharat,” reasserting his faith in giving importance to Hindutva rather than linguistic differences.

MNS Protest Over ‘Slapgate’ Turns Chaotic in Mira Road, Dozens Detained

July 8, 2025, 1:29 pm

There has been a flare-up of tensions in Maharashtra on Tuesday when supporters of Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers were arrested at a rally in Thane’s Mira Road, organized in response to a traders’ protest against an assault related to the ongoing Marathi language controversy. The incident, now referred to as ‘slapgate’, has caused political and linguistic disturbances throughout the state.

MNS Protest Halts Traffic in Thane District

MNS workers went on to protest in Mira Bhayandar, marching against what they perceived as biased treatment by the authorities, particularly in light of allowing traders to protest over the previous assault incident. Their procession caused massive traffic snarls, leading to a heavy police presence and roadblocks across the Thane district.

#WATCH | Maharashtra | Police detain MNS workers protesting to counter traders’ protest over language row, in Mira Bhayandar area pic.twitter.com/r9F1Rch10D

— ANI (@ANI) July 8, 2025

Dramatic scenes were witnessed as police quickly arrested MNS workers and packed them into vans. Protesters claimed that they had been denied permission to march and asked why a similar ban was not placed on the protest of traders.

“Anyone residing in Maharashtra should learn Marathi,” some detained workers insisted, threatening that those who fail to do so will “face consequences.”

CM Fadnavis: MNS Refused to Follow Permitted Route

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis justified the police action, claiming that the MNS workers had not taken the route of the protest as agreed upon.

In Maharashtra, a protest march can be taken out by anyone. Anyone is free to do so after getting police permission. There are traffic problems, risk of stampede, etc. The police commissioner informed me that they (MNS leaders) were requested to alter the route, but they refused. So police halted them,” Fadnavis stated.

In a veiled dig at MNS and its leadership, Fadnavis further said, “I believe I understand Maharashtra’s mood. Such experiments will not succeed here. A Marathi person has a big heart. He does not think small.”

What Triggers ‘Slapgate’?

The row started on Sunday evening when Babulal Chaudhary, a 48-year-old sweet shop owner in Mira Road, was slapped and threatened by seven MNS workers. The incident occurred after his staff member Bagharam used Hindi. The attackers asked them to use only Marathi. When Chaudhary retorted that all languages are used in Maharashtra, tensions ran high. A video of the attack went viral, and public outrage and the language issue started.

Earlier in the month, Fadnavis stated, “There is nothing wrong in taking pride in the Marathi language in Maharashtra. But if one involves himself in hooliganism because of the language, we will not allow it.”

He said, “The police have registered an FIR and acted on the incident, and if anyone generates such a language controversy in the future, legal action will be taken. We are proud of our Marathi, but injustice cannot be done with any language of India like this.”

He also condemned selective outrage: “Sometimes I am astonished that these people adopt English and rake up controversies over Hindi. What is this line of thinking, and what is this line of action? So, stern action will be taken against those who take the law into their hands.”

Political Shifts Add Fuel to Language Fire

This controversy over language has come amidst changing political alliances in Maharashtra. Interestingly, estranged cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray have come together in the background of the BJP’s growing criticism of MNS in the slapgate saga.

The incident also came after a political furore over the attempt of the state government to include Hindi in the curriculum of primary schools, which was subsequently withdrawn under compulsion.

“Tumko Patak Patak Ke Maarenge”: BJP MP Nishikant Dubey Dares Raj Thackeray Over Marathi Row

July 7, 2025, 6:46 pm

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Monday courted a new political controversy by strongly reacting to MNS leader Raj Thackeray’s inflammatory remark asking party workers to “strike below the eardrum” of those who don’t speak Marathi. Referring to Thackeray indirectly, Dubey asked the MNS leader to venture outside Maharashtra and threatened, “Tumko patak patak ke maarenge” (You will be thrashed repeatedly).

Dubey Targets Raj and Uddhav on Politics of Language

Dubey’s statements followed Raj Thackeray, in a recent rally, directing his party cadres to make non-Marathi speakers learn Marathi, but not to record videos when they take action against them.

“Gujarati or whoever it is here, should learn Marathi, but you don’t need to beat them for that if they don’t speak Marathi. But if someone displays useless drama, you have to hit below the eardrums,” Thackeray said, while also cautioning his supporters against shooting such incidents.

In a scathing counterattack, Dubey targeted both Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, calling them “cheap politicians” before the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls.

“You are saying that people will have to speak Marathi. Whose roti (bread) you are eating? There are Tata, Birla and Reliance, they are not unique to Maharashtra. Tata established its first factory here (in Bihar). You people are surviving on our money,” Dubey lashed out.

Dubey Challenges Thackerays to Act Beyond Maharashtra

Challenging Raj Thackeray to attack speakers of other languages too, Nishikant Dubey said, “If you are courageous enough and beat those who speak Hindi, then you should beat all those who speak Urdu, Tamil, and Telugu. If you are such a big ‘boss’, come out of Maharashtra, come to Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu – ‘tumko patak patak ke maarenge’ (You will be thrashed). This anarchy won’t work,” the BJP leader asserted.

#WATCH | Guwahati, Assam | On Raj Thackeray’s remark ‘beat but don’t make a video’, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey says, “…You people are surviving on our money. What kind of industries do you have?… If you are courageous enough and beat those who speak Hindi, then you should beat… pic.twitter.com/gRvAjtD0iW

— ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2025

He also dared the Thackeray cousins to go to Mahim and face non-Marathi speakers openly. “If they have courage, they should go to Mahim and beat any Hindi or Urdu speaking people in front of Mahim dargah, then I will consider them true ancestors of Balasaheb Thackeray,” he further added.

Shiv Sena and Opposition Backlash

Dubey’s statement attracted severe criticism from Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, who challenged the BJP MP’s jurisdiction. “Who made him the gatekeeper of Hindi? Who made him the tax collector of India? Who made him the spokesperson of industrialists?” she questioned.

She also aimed at Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, questioning whether he supports the MP’s offensive language. “Does @Dev_Fadnavis ji approve of their party MP’s language towards people of Maharashtra and his derogatory remarks about hardworking people of the state?” she posted on X.

Who made him the gatekeeper of Hindi?
Who made him the tax keeper of India?
Who made him the spokesperson of industrialists?
Who made him the decision maker of what other party leaders should be doing?

Does @Dev_Fadnavis ji agree with their party MP’s language with regards to… https://t.co/CWubjlO174

— Priyanka Chaturvedi🇮🇳 (@priyankac19) July 7, 2025

The incendiary exchange is against the backdrop of increasing political heat in Maharashtra on the Marathi language matter, with the Thackeray cousins coming together again to marshal regional support before key civic elections.

Shinde Accuses Uddhav of Ignoring Marathi Issues, Praises Raj’s Cultural Commitment

July 6, 2025, 11:31 am

In a rare public moment, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a stage in Mumbai after two decades. Their reunion at the “Victory Rally” in Worli reignited political debates across Maharashtra. While their supporters welcomed the move as historic, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance launched fierce attacks.

Shinde Slams Uddhav’s Intentions

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reacted sharply. He praised Raj’s concern for the Marathi language but criticized Uddhav’s tone. “Raj reflected genuine concern for the Marathi language. In contrast, Uddhav’s speech was filled with bitterness, jealousy, and a desperate craving for power and position,” he stated.

Moreover, Shinde said Uddhav missed the rally’s real purpose. “He raised no issue concerning the Marathi Manoos. Self-interest and the hunger for power were the only visible agendas.”

Allegations of Betrayal and Decline

Shinde accused Uddhav of betraying Marathi identity. He blamed the 2019 alliance with Congress and NCP for diluting Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision.

He questioned Uddhav’s leadership and the fall of Marathi representation in Mumbai. “The Shiv Sena under my leadership won 60 seats, while Uddhav’s party contested 100 and managed just 20,” he said.

Furthermore, Shinde accused Uddhav of insulting Prime Minister Modi during the event. “It is unfortunate that even the PM was targeted. That only exposes their hatred and desperation for power,” he added.

BJP Leaders Push Back

Union Minister Ramdas Athawale warned the MNS against using aggression. “Love for Marathi can be understood, but the feeling of opposing the Hindi language is not right,” he told ANI.

He called on Raj Thackeray to restrain his party workers. “Bullying can be answered with bullying. Beating someone is wrong.” He also claimed that the reunion could divide the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

Meanwhile, State Minister Ashish Shelar dismissed the rally as a political stunt. “This was not a rally for the love of language but public appeasement of a brother once thrown out of the house,” he said.

According to him, the cousins reunited out of fear of BJP’s rising strength in civic polls. “They remembered their brotherhood due to the fear of BJP’s strength,” he added.

Fadnavis Responds with Sarcasm

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded to Raj’s remark that “What Balasaheb could not do, Devendra Fadnavis did it.”

He replied with sarcasm, “I express my gratitude to Raj Thackeray that he gave me the credit for the coming together of both the brothers; I must be getting the blessings of Balasaheb Thackeray.”

Fadnavis ridiculed the rally as a show of emotion rather than purpose. “I was told there would be a victory rally, but there was also a speech of ‘rudaali’. Not a single word was spoken about Marathi,” he said. He also slammed the Thackerays for mismanaging the BMC during their long control. “They did not do any work that could be shown,” he added.

Uddhav and Raj Vow to Stay United

During the rally, Uddhav declared a strong message of unity. “We have come together to stay together. We will together capture power in the Mumbai civic body and Maharashtra,” he announced.

The rally drew loud cheers from members of both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS. Uddhav stressed that this fight was not just political. He said the battle was about “defending the Marathi language and identity” against the “imposition” of Hindi.

Raj opened his speech with a light dig, “Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has done what even Balasaheb Thackeray couldn’t, he brought us together.” He warned the BJP against dividing Mumbai from Maharashtra. He claimed the now-cancelled three-language policy was just the beginning.

Speculations About a New Alliance

The rally raised fresh speculation. Could the Thackeray cousins form a new alliance before the BMC polls? Uddhav’s Shiv Sena (UBT) has seen electoral setbacks. Raj’s MNS has been struggling to stay relevant. Both parties now seem to be looking for revival through unity. Saturday’s rally may signal a turning point both strategically and emotionally for the Thackeray cousins.

After 20 Years, Thackeray Cousins Reunite—But What Brought Them Together?

July 5, 2025, 3:46 pm

In a political turn of events, estranged political rivals and cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray came together on a public stage after 20 years, as they shared the same podium at a rally called ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of the Marathi) held in Mumbai on Wednesday. The rally, co-organized by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), reflected a symbolic and strategic change in Maharashtra politics, particularly ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls.

The rally was on the heels of the Mahayuti government’s reversal of a contentious proposal to make Hindi the third language in primary schools in Maharashtra. Both Uddhav, 64, and Raj, 57, had been vehemently opposed to the policy. Their reunion is being colored as a political win for Marathi linguistic identity.

Raj Thackeray Slams BJP-Led Policy on Hindi

Raj Thackeray, with his controversial oratory skills, didn’t spare the state government and its language policy from criticism. “What Bal Thackeray couldn’t do, what many others couldn’t do, Devendra Fadnavis did — unite us,” Raj quipped, targeting the Deputy Chief Minister.

“You might have power in the Vidhan Bhawan, we have power on the roads.” He also asked about the origin of the three-language formula.

“Where did you learn this three-language formula? Only from the central government. Today, in the High Court and the Supreme Court, everything is English. It is not there in any other state. Why only in Maharashtra?” He then issued a warning

“Hindi is only a 200-year-old language. Try to put your hands on Mumbai or Maharashtra, and you will get to know. People must speak Marathi, no question about it.” “There will be no compromise on the Marathi language,” Raj Thackeray declared.

Uddhav Thackeray Offers Olive Branch

Following Raj’s strong speech, Uddhav Thackeray changed his tone to a lighter one, suggesting reconciliation. Then, after all these years, Raj and I hugged on a stage. The issue is, he addressed me as ‘respected Uddhav Thackeray’. So I too will say, ‘respected Raj Thackeray’,” he quipped.

Looking back at the past, Uddhav remembered how internal friction within the Shiv Sena resulted in Raj’s exit. Bal Thackeray appointed Uddhav as the party’s working president in January 2003—a decision officially made public by Raj himself. But feelings of resentment had been simmering over perceived favouritism in allotting tickets and the marginalization of supporters of Raj.

The two last shared the stage in 2005 when they campaigned for the Malvan Assembly by-election, just before Raj quit Shiv Sena to create MNS. At a later press conference, Raj remarked, “All I had asked for was respect. All I got was insult and humiliation.”

Marathi Unity Ahead of BMC Polls

And now, two decades on, the cousins seem to have put aside their differences in support of a common cultural and political movement. Their coming together is being interpreted as a tactical partnership before the all-important BMC polls.

“Everyone present here has made themselves forget the party divide for Marathi. One thing is certain: we have closed the distance between us. We have come together, we will remain together,” Uddhav announced.

He also flayed the BJP’s move towards uniform policies.

“Mumbai was our right, we fought and got it. We have to project the BJP’s ‘one nation, one election’ concept. Gradually, they want to make one of everything. Hindu and Hindustan, we agree, but we won’t let them have Hindi. We made Marathi compulsory; we had to do it.”

With cousins regaining a joint front, the rally gives a definite message: the battle for Marathi pride is back in the limelight of Maharashtra politics.

Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Reunite for ‘Awaj Marathicha’ Rally in Worli

July 5, 2025, 11:28 am

After two decades of political separation, Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena UBT chief) and Raj Thackeray (MNS chief) will share the stage at a joint rally in Worli today. The event marks a rare show of unity between the Thackeray cousins, who parted ways after a power struggle.

Rally Planned After Hindi Language Rollback

The event, titled ‘Awaj Marathicha’ (Voice of the Marathi), was organized after the Mahayuti government withdrew its decision to make Hindi a mandatory third language in primary schools. Both Raj and Uddhav opposed the move. Several intellectuals also joined their protest, forcing the government to reverse its plan.

Possible Political Alliance in the Works

Political analysts believe this united front could signal a potential political reunion between the cousins. Many expect this partnership to gain momentum before the local body elections later this year.

Parties Gear Up for Massive Turnout

Both parties are putting on a show of strength at the NSCI Dome in Worli. According to a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, the dome has a seating capacity of 8,000, but the crowd is expected to exceed that. For those who can’t get inside, the organizers have set up LED screens outside the venue.

Stage Set for a Spectacle

Ajit Bhure, a Marathi film director, will host the rally. MNS leader Yashwant Killedar said, “We have erected a grand stage with the map of Maharashtra in the background, headlined ‘Awaj Marathicha’. We have arranged nearly 6000 chairs. Tents have been set up on all sides of the NSCI Dome, and screens propped up high on footpaths. We expect people to come spontaneously. Traffic on Annie Besant Road may have to be stopped.”

Senior Leaders Oversee Preparations

Earlier this week, Anil Parab (Shiv Sena UBT) and Bala Nandgaonkar (MNS) took charge of planning. With help from party workers, they oversaw logistics and held meetings to ensure everything went smoothly.

LED Screens, Posters, and Powerful Visuals

Local leaders were instructed to install LED screens in their neighborhoods. Meanwhile, social media featured teaser videos showing Uddhav and Raj as lions fighting hyenas—meant to symbolize their critics.

Throughout Mumbai—including Lalbaug, Parel, Dadar, and Worli—banners show the cousins alongside late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. The slogans boldly declare, “Who brings down the government to its knees? Marathi manoos”, “Unity of the Marathi people is the need of the time and real strength for us.”

Cultural Touch Adds Flavor

Kunal Manikar, MNS’s western Mumbai head, announced, “The Marathi mandals have heeded our call. A Jai Jawan Govinda Mandal will form a human pyramid at the venue.”

Hints at Political Realignment

Kishori Pednekar, a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, commented, “Though the rally is for the cause of Marathi, it could be the beginning of a renewed alliance between the cousins ahead of the local body polls.”

Vinayak Raut also added, “People will come from across Maharashtra to see the two brothers together. Leaders from allied parties such as Jayant Patil of NCP (SP), and CPI and CPM will join us.”

Top Opposition Chiefs Skip, But Parties Attend

While the rally has drawn wide attention, Sharad Pawar (NCP-SP) and Harshwardhan Sapkal (Congress) will not attend. However, both parties will send representatives to show their support.

Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Unite After 20 Years to Oppose Hindi Imposition

June 27, 2025, 3:36 pm

Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, together for the first time in two decades, will come together against the language policy of the Maharashtra government. Their coming together is in reaction to the state making Hindi compulsory from Class 1 to Class 5 under the National Education Policy’s three-language formula.

The two leaders term it a clear thrust of Hindi upon Marathi identity and linguistic diversity. They have now planned a joint protest on July 5. This is a political moment that comes close to a display of unity from the estranged cousins.

From Separate Protests to a Single March

The two leaders had initially called for different protests. Raj Thackeray was organizing a ‘Virat Morcha’ on July 6 from Girgaon Chowpatty in South Mumbai. Uddhav Thackeray had supported an Azad Maidan protest on July 7 called by academic and activist Deepak Pawar.

The individual announcements had created confusion among the fans. But barely a few minutes after the press conferences, Raj Thackeray phoned Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut. He suggested staging one united march for the Marathi movement. Raut spoke to Uddhav Thackeray, who agreed forthwith. The leadership settled for July 5 as the date of the joint protest. The time and location will be disclosed in due course.

New Political Moment in Maharashtra

Sanjay Raut posted a photo of Uddhav and Raj together on X. His caption was, “There will be one united protest against the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra schools. Jai Maharashtra!”

जय महाराष्ट्र!

“There will be a single and united march against compulsory Hindi in Maharashtra schools. Thackeray is the brand!”
⁦@Dev_Fadnavis⁩
⁦@AmitShah⁩ pic.twitter.com/tPv6q15Hwv

— Sanjay Raut (@rautsanjay61) June 27, 2025

The MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande welcomed the decision. He appreciated Raj for initiating it and Uddhav for endorsing it without hesitation. Sandeep Deshpande stated that this march would demonstrate the power of one voice, united in Marathi. He even referred to it as a “2.0 version of the Sanyukta Maharashtra Movement.”

Government Faces Backlash, Revises Decision

The Maharashtra state government had initially issued the directive on April 16. It instructed schools to introduce Hindi compulsorily from Class 1 to 5 in Marathi- and English-medium schools. People viewed it as an assault on the rights of regional languages. Following protests, the government changed its order. The new resolution now makes Hindi voluntary. It also permits schools to teach another Indian language if a minimum of 20 students express a desire for it.

The message on July 5 will be loud and clear. Both Uddhav and Raj would like to demonstrate that Marathi identity cannot be diluted. Their consolidation might determine not only the course of language policy but also Maharashtra’s politics.