Shikhar Pahariya Calls for Balance in Language Row
The usually reserved Shikhar Pahariya, who is more often in the news for his high-profile relationship with Janhvi Kapoor, has finally spoken publicly about a topic that impacts millions in Maharashtra: the tension between Hindi and Marathi communities. In a rare public statement, he argued that while regional pride is valuable, it should never come at the expense of inclusivity or the rights of people migrating from other parts of India.
The debate over linguistic identity in Maharashtra is nothing new. Every few years, headlines flare up about skirmishes between local pride and the vast population of migrants—especially from Hindi-speaking states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Many Maharashtrians argue that the Marathi language is under threat, while migrants contend that their rights to live, work, and speak their language must be protected. With Mumbai as a melting pot, frictions are inevitable.
Shikhar didn’t sugarcoat things. He pointed out that it’s natural for people to feel strongly about their roots and language. "But," he said, "when pride turns divisive, it risks unraveling the very social fabric that makes a city like Mumbai so vibrant." He noted that his own circle of friends includes people from nearly every corner of India, and their diversity is what strengthens their connection.
Unity Over Division: A Call for Inclusion
According to him, promoting Hindi-Marathi conflict narratives may get attention, but it rarely solves the real problems. Shikhar emphasized the need for public dialogue, not finger-pointing. He advocated for more community-led events celebrating both Marathi and Hindi culture, suggesting that sharing festivals, arts, and even food can foster understanding instead of suspicion.
Shikhar didn’t shy away from tough issues. When asked about claims that migrants "take away jobs" from locals, he countered that Mumbai’s success as India’s financial capital is built precisely on its openness. "People come here to work hard and create better lives—not just for themselves, but for the city as a whole," he said. "We can’t just shut the doors out of fear. Growth means room for everyone."
Even though he’s best known as Janhvi Kapoor’s boyfriend, Shikhar’s remarks are resonating far beyond Bollywood’s social circles. Many young Mumbaikars, who speak a mix of Hindi, Marathi, and even English at home, feel caught in the middle of these cultural battles. For them, Shikhar’s message is refreshingly direct: keep your heritage close but don’t push others away in the name of pride.
As political parties in Maharashtra jockey for position in the run-up to crucial state elections, their rhetoric around language and identity is ramping up. Shikhar’s comments won’t solve the underlying issues overnight, but they do bring the focus back to something often forgotten: respect for every individual, no matter their mother tongue.
