For weeks, the Marathi language debate has stirred strong emotions across Maharashtra, but no one expected Bollywood veteran Sanjay Dutt to jump into the storm—until now.

In a bold and unexpected statement, Sanjay Dutt broke his silence and addressed the growing tension surrounding the use and treatment of the Marathi language in the state. Known for his candid nature, Dutt didn’t sugarcoat his words—and his furious reaction is now making national headlines.

The Marathi language issue began when several public figures and political leaders made remarks suggesting that non-Marathi speakers should “learn or leave”, sparking intense debates across social media. Some viewed the campaign as a way to protect regional identity, while others saw it as linguistic discrimination.

Maharashtra, being a diverse and multilingual state, has always had a delicate balance between regional pride and national unity. But recent incidents have threatened to disturb that balance.

In a video message posted to his official social media accounts, Sanjay Dutt spoke for nearly 3 minutes. He began by saying:

“Marathi is a beautiful language. I respect it deeply. But we cannot use language as a tool to divide people.”

He continued:

“I have spent most of my life in Maharashtra. I consider this state my home. But home is where all languages, all cultures are respected.”

The tone shifted as he addressed what he called the “politicization of language.”

“Enough is enough. We must stop making language a political weapon. Let’s build bridges—not walls.”

Coming from Sanjay Dutt—a figure with massive respect in both Bollywood and Maharashtra—the message struck a chord. Unlike politicians, whose statements are often seen as calculated, Dutt’s emotion felt raw and genuine.

His fiery statement surprised many, especially as he rarely comments on political or cultural issues. The fact that he chose to speak now, and so forcefully, suggests that the controversy has reached a boiling point.

Social media erupted.

#SanjayDuttSpeaks

#MarathiLanguageDebate

#UnityNotDivision

became trending hashtags within hours of his post.

Some fans praised him for “saying what needed to be said.” Others criticized him for “taking sides” in a sensitive issue.

A leading Marathi journalist tweeted:

“When Sanjay Dutt speaks, Maharashtra listens. This might be a turning point.”

Several local leaders were quick to respond.

One Shiv Sena spokesperson said:

“We respect Sanjay Dutt’s opinion, but language is our identity. If we don’t protect it, who will?”

Meanwhile, a Congress MP supported Dutt’s stance:

“He’s right. We need to celebrate Marathi, not use it to shame others.”

Clearly, the debate is no longer limited to language—it’s become a symbol of inclusion vs. exclusion, unity vs. division.

Insiders suggest that Dutt had been following the controversy quietly for weeks. But after several videos surfaced showing non-Marathi speakers being harassed, he felt compelled to speak up.

“It wasn’t about politics,” said a source close to Dutt.
“It was about humanity. That’s what made him react.”

While the controversy began in Maharashtra, it has sparked conversations across India. In cities like Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad, people are asking:

Should states enforce local language use?

Where is the line between cultural pride and cultural pressure?

And most importantly—are we forgetting what unity in diversity truly means?

Sanjay Dutt’s words highlight a deeper question: Can love for one’s mother tongue coexist with respect for other languages?

His critics argue he’s downplaying Marathi identity. His supporters believe he’s standing up for national unity. But perhaps, he’s doing both.

Dutt ended his statement with a heartfelt appeal:

“Let’s not let language divide us. Let it connect us. That’s the Maharashtra I love. That’s the India I believe in.”

His voice cracked as he said it. It wasn’t a scripted speech. It was a cry for understanding in an increasingly polarized society.

Sanjay Dutt’s reaction to the Marathi language controversy has added a powerful new dimension to the debate. Whether you agree with him or not, his message has reignited conversations about respect, tolerance, and what it means to be truly inclusive.

As the controversy continues to unfold, one thing is clear:
Sanjay Dutt has spoken—and India is listening.