Aamir Khan has once again found himself at the centre of a language-related controversy after a recent public interaction where he declined to repeat his message in Hindi, choosing instead to emphasise the regional context of Maharashtra. The brief exchange, which was captured on video and circulated widely online, has sparked fresh debate around language, identity, and expectations from national public figures.
The incident took place during an event where Aamir was addressing the audience in a mix of English and Marathi. At one point, he was reportedly asked by someone present to repeat his message in Hindi so that it could be better understood by a wider audience. Responding to the request, the actor said, “Yeh Maharashtra hai, bhai,” a remark that was interpreted by many as a clear assertion of regional linguistic pride. While the comment was brief and delivered casually, it quickly gained traction on social media, where users dissected its intent and implications.
Supporters of the actor argued that Aamir’s response reflected respect for local culture and language. They pointed out that Maharashtra has a strong tradition of linguistic identity, with Marathi being an integral part of its cultural fabric. From this perspective, Aamir’s remark was seen as an acknowledgement of the state’s language rather than a dismissal of Hindi. Several users online noted that public figures often speak about inclusivity, and respecting regional languages should also be part of that conversation.
On the other hand, critics felt that the statement was unnecessary and risked alienating audiences who view Hindi as a link language across the country. They argued that as a nationally recognised figure, Aamir Khan’s words carry weight and can easily be perceived as exclusionary, even if that was not the intent. Some questioned whether the actor could have simply repeated his point in Hindi without diminishing the importance of Marathi, thereby avoiding controversy altogether.
This is not the first time Aamir Khan has been drawn into debates around language and cultural sensitivity. Over the years, he has often spoken about social issues, diversity, and inclusivity, which has earned him both praise and scrutiny. The current episode adds to a broader national conversation about linguistic identity, particularly in a country as diverse as India, where language often intersects with politics, culture, and regional pride.
The debate also reflects a larger tension between regional assertion and national unity. While many Indians take pride in their mother tongues, there is also an expectation that prominent public figures will bridge linguistic gaps rather than highlight them. In recent years, similar debates have emerged around the use of Hindi in non-Hindi-speaking states, with strong reactions from regional communities who feel their languages are being sidelined.
As the discussion continues online, Aamir Khan has not issued any clarification or further statement on the matter. For now, the episode stands as another example of how even a short remark can ignite widespread debate in the age of social media. It also underlines how language remains a deeply emotional and sensitive issue in India, where words often carry meanings far beyond their immediate context.