Pune: Don’t Come Back’ Poster Sparks Regional Divide Debate
Pune: Don’t Come Back’ Poster Sparks Regional Divide Debate
Pune, October 21, 2025: A new wave of regional tension appears to be brewing in Pune, Maharashtra’s cultural and educational capital, as a social media feud between “Punekars” and “outsiders” gains traction. What began as a localised sentiment has now evolved into a larger, emotionally charged debate targeting even Marathi-speaking people from Marathwada and Vidarbha.
The controversy began after a poster went viral on social media reading, “You’re leaving, don’t come back.” The message, allegedly aimed at people leaving Pune for Diwali vacations, sparked widespread criticism for promoting divisive regionalism.
In response, another young Pune resident countered with a poster that read, “Those leaving Pune for Diwali must come back. This city belongs to all of us — it’s not anyone’s private property.” The post, shared by Instagram user @abhayanjuu, quickly resonated with many, drawing praise for promoting unity.
कालच्या माझ्या पोस्टने महाराष्ट्रात पुणे vs उर्वरित महाराष्ट्र असा वाद सगळा सोशल मिडीयावर आता टोकाला पोहोचला पन माझ्यावर टिकास्र सोडायच्या आधी ह्या सरांना भेटा..!
— नास्तिक पक्याभाऊ महाराष्ट्र राज्य (@nastikpakyabhau) October 20, 2025
हे आहेत पुण्याचे जहागीरदार शशिकांतशेठ गरडकर हे सर रोज पुणे मुंबई आपल्या swift गाडीतून (पिवळी नंबर प्लेट) भाडे मारतात… pic.twitter.com/ECZzd5GUHX
Social media platforms have since become battlegrounds for heated exchanges, with users condemning attempts to exclude people from other regions of Maharashtra. The situation underscores growing concern that such “Punekar vs Outsiders” rhetoric could harm the city’s inclusive image and disturb social harmony.
Pune, long known as a hub for education, IT, and culture, has historically welcomed people from across India. Many citizens now urge calm, stressing that divisive sentiments have no place in a city built on diversity and opportunity.
