Mumbai : A video from Ghatkopar has gone viral on social media, showing a heated argument between a woman and a group of locals who allegedly pressured her to speak Marathi. The confrontation, which took place outside a residence, has reignited the ongoing debate over language imposition in Maharashtra.
In the 35-second clip, the woman—identified as Sanjira Devi, a local caterer—is seen trying to pass through a group of people when she is stopped and asked to speak in Marathi. The woman firmly responds, “I will not speak Marathi. You speak Hindi. Are you not Indian?” Her bold stand sparks further debate, with the group chanting “Maharashtra, Maharashtra” in response. She reiterates her stance, saying, “Speak Hindi.”
The video ends with both sides standing their ground, highlighting growing tensions around language and identity in the city.
This incident follows a series of similar controversies in Maharashtra, where non-Marathi speakers have faced pressure or threats. In a recent case, a shopkeeper from Uttar Pradesh in Ghatkopar was reportedly told to “learn Marathi or shut your shop.”
The video has triggered mixed reactions online. While some netizens support the locals’ call to preserve Marathi, many others have slammed the behaviour as divisive and against the spirit of national unity.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
