Which Maharashtra District Has the Most Marathi Speakers? The Top 5 Will Surprise You
Which Maharashtra District Has the Most Marathi Speakers? The Top 5 Will Surprise You
Maharashtra is the heartland of the Marathi language, the state’s official tongue and a cultural cornerstone for millions. But even within the state, the share of Marathi speakers varies sharply by district — and the leader isn’t Mumbai.
Based on the 2011 Census of India, here are the top five districts where Marathi is spoken by the largest share of residents:
5. Ahilyanagar – 88.89%
Formerly known as Ahmadnagar, this western Maharashtra district is steeped in history and tradition, with nearly 89% of its population speaking Marathi.
4. Kolhapur – 89.16%
Famed for its temples, wrestling heritage, and fiery cuisine, Kolhapur ranks fourth with over 89% Marathi speakers.
3. Sindhudurg – 91.22%
A Konkan coastal gem known for pristine beaches and forts, Sindhudurg boasts over 91% Marathi-speaking residents.
2. Satara – 93.05%
Home to historic Maratha landmarks, Satara secures second place with 93% of its population speaking Marathi.
1. Bhandara – 93.19%
Surprisingly, the top spot goes to Bhandara in Vidarbha, where 93.19% of residents speak Marathi — making it the most linguistically homogeneous district in the state.
Why Not Mumbai?
Despite being Maharashtra’s capital and a hub of Marathi culture, only about 42% of Mumbai’s population reported Marathi as their mother tongue in 2011. The city’s cosmopolitan mix has reshaped its linguistic profile.
Has It Changed Since 2011?
With the 2021 Census delayed, updated linguistic data is awaited. However, these figures still offer a striking snapshot of Marathi’s strongholds across the state.
