Relocating to Pune: Bengaluru Tech Founder Moves Base Amid Language Controversy
Relocating to Pune: Bengaluru Tech Founder Moves Base Amid Language Controversy
In response to staff concerns over a viral Kannada language row, operations shift from Bengaluru to Pune to ensure workplace inclusivity and safety.
A Bengaluru-based tech startup is relocating its operations to Pune after an internal team discussion sparked by a recent language-related controversy. Founder Kaushik Mukherjee announced the decision on social media, stating that the move was prompted by his employees’ concerns about the growing language tensions in Karnataka.
Today I took a decision to wind up our Bangalore office in the next 6 months and move it to Pune. If this language nonsense is to continue, I do not want my non Kannada speaking staff to be the next "victim".
— Kaushik Mukherjee 🇮🇳 (@kush07) May 22, 2025
This idea was mooted by the staff themselves.
I agreed to their POV. https://t.co/M9abD2OYOD
The decision follows a viral incident at the State Bank of India’s Suryanagar branch in Chandapura, where a manager was seen refusing to speak in Kannada to a customer, stating defiantly, “I will never speak in Kannada. Show me the rules.” The clip drew sharp criticism online and reignited debates around language use and inclusivity in Karnataka.
Mukherjee, addressing the issue in a post on X, shared that the idea to shift came directly from his team. “This idea was mooted by the staff themselves,” he wrote. “I agreed to their POV.” He further stated, “If this language nonsense is to continue, I do not want my non-Kannada speaking staff to be the next ‘victim.’”
With Pune emerging as a growing tech hub and known for its cosmopolitan work culture, the shift is being viewed as a strategic move to create a safer and more inclusive environment for employees. The relocation also highlights how regional language politics are beginning to influence business decisions, especially in urban tech corridors.
