Marathi vs Hindi Row in Panvel: Travel Vlogger’s Video Goes Viral
Marathi vs Hindi Row in Panvel: Travel Vlogger’s Video Goes Viral
For months, the issue of Marathi language has remained a sensitive subject in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai and adjoining regions. The debate between Marathi and Hindi surfaces frequently, and a recent incident in Panvel has once again pushed the controversy into the spotlight.
A video now viral on social media shows travel vlogger Vijay Chandel in a heated argument over language during Ganesh festival preparations. According to the clip, the dispute began when a woman asked Chandel to speak in Marathi. He reportedly responded that he only speaks Hindi and would continue to do so.
The woman and her colleagues stepped out of their vehicle, insisting that those who live in Maharashtra should respect local culture and speak Marathi. Chandel, however, stood firm, saying, “I respect Maharashtra, but no one can force me to speak Marathi. Hindi is the language of India, and I will speak Hindi. I will not speak Marathi, not even till my death.”
The disagreement, Chandel later clarified, stemmed from differing opinions within the society over organising Ganesh Utsav. While some residents opposed the festival, he and his team supported celebrating it. He stressed that the language clash was not about religion or culture, but about mutual respect and personal choice.
Following the incident, Chandel filed a police complaint. He stated that while a few individuals later apologised, he continues to face harassment on social media and messaging platforms. “It has not stopped, and I am under mental pressure,” he said.
Chandel also shared details about his family background, highlighting their long association with national service. His father worked in the defence sector, and he underscored that he and his wife are open-minded about languages. “The real issue,” he said, “is that no one should be forced to speak a language against their will.”
The episode comes against the backdrop of Maharashtra’s ongoing language politics. Earlier, the Fadnavis-led government had attempted to implement a three-language policy in schools, but faced opposition from leaders including Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray. The plan was later withdrawn. Despite this, tensions between Marathi and Hindi usage continue to flare from time to time.
