Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 6: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reaffirmed on Thursday that Marathi remains the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra, responding to concerns raised by Shiv Sena-UBT legislator Bhaskar Jadhav over recent remarks made by RSS leader Bhaiyyaji Joshi.

Jadhav had urged the Chief Minister to address Joshi's statement, particularly in light of the recent declaration by the Centre granting Marathi the status of a Classical Language. He expressed concern over Joshi's comments and requested clarification from the state government.

Fadnavis, in his response, emphasized that while Marathi is the official language of the region, it is important for everyone to respect other languages. He said, “Marathi is the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra. There will be no disrespect to any other language. Those who respect their mother tongue should never disrespect another language.”

The controversy stemmed from a statement made by Joshi on Wednesday, where he argued that newcomers to Mumbai need not learn Marathi. He further claimed that different languages are spoken across the city, noting that Gujarati is commonly spoken in Ghatkopar. "There is no single language in Mumbai; many languages are spoken here," Joshi said.

This prompted a strong response from Shiv Sena-UBT legislator Aaditya Thackeray, who condemned Joshi's remarks, accusing him of insulting Maharashtra and the Marathi language. He pointed out that despite the government’s efforts to promote the language, including the cancellation of plans for a Marathi Bhavan at Marine Drive, such statements undermine the language’s status.

Thackeray demanded action against Joshi, stating, “Marathi is the language of Mumbai and Maharashtra. Action should be taken against Bhayyaji Joshi.”

Shiv Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut also criticized Joshi, questioning his authority to make such claims about regional languages. He drew comparisons to the reactions one would face in other parts of India if similar remarks were made about their languages.

Congress legislator Nana Patole took the opportunity to accuse the RSS and BJP of deflecting attention from pressing issues like agriculture and unemployment by stoking unnecessary debates about language. “Farmers in Maharashtra are facing severe distress. Why is the RSS not focusing on these issues instead?” Patole asked.

The controversy also sparked criticism from NCP-SP spokesman Amol Matele, who argued that Joshi’s statement was an attack on Marathi pride, something that would not be tolerated.

On the other hand, BJP legislator Ram Kadam sought to downplay the remarks, defending Joshi’s position. “Joshi is a respected figure. His statement was taken out of context. What he meant was that in Ghatkopar, where a large Gujarati-speaking population resides, people naturally speak in Gujarati when they meet,” Kadam explained.

In defense of Mumbai's linguistic identity, Kadam concluded, “As long as the sun and moon are in the sky, the language of Mumbai will remain Marathi.”