CM Fadnavis stated at the inauguration of Marathi language and culture centers at JNU that a Marathi person cannot be narrow-minded and that equal respect for all languages is necessary.
Language Controversy: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis openly shared his views on Marathi language, literature, and culture at a special event held at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi on Thursday. He clarified that a Marathi person can never be narrow-minded and that language should be a medium of communication, not discord.
Pride in Marathi, but Respect for Other Indian Languages is Also Necessary
Addressing the program, Fadnavis said that it is natural to be proud of Marathi. However, considering one language superior and disrespecting other languages is not in accordance with Indian culture. He said that the Maharashtra government's language policy is based on balance and inclusivity. Along with Marathi, other Indian languages should also be given equal importance.
This Statement Comes Amidst the Ongoing Language Dispute
Recently, a political dispute has erupted in Maharashtra regarding the three-language formula and allegations of Hindi imposition. Shiv Sena (Uddhav faction) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) had accused the state government of forcibly implementing Hindi. As a result, the government had to backtrack. In such an environment, Fadnavis's statement is considered very important from a political and social point of view.
The Vision of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
In his speech, Fadnavis, mentioning the thoughts of Sant Dnyaneshwar and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, said that Marathi culture has never been narrow-minded. He said that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's empire and vision were not limited to Marathi or regional identity but had space for all classes and communities.
Inauguration of Two Marathi Centers at JNU
At this event, Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated two new academic centers on the JNU campus. The first is the 'Kusumagraj Marathi Language, Literature, and Culture Center', and the second is the 'Shri Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Security and Strategic Studies Center'. Both centers will work towards high-quality teaching, research, and nation-building in line with the spirit of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Announcement to Install a Statue of Shivaji Maharaj
On this occasion, Chief Minister Fadnavis announced that a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj would also be installed on the JNU campus. This proposal was also supported by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Santishree Dhulipudi Pandit. The Vice-Chancellor, while calling JNU the most nationalist campus in the country, connected the expansion of Marathi language and culture with national consciousness.
Launch of 'Sindhudurg Samvad'
JNU also announced an annual national dialogue platform called 'Sindhudurg Samvad' on this occasion. The aim of this platform is to bring scholars, policymakers, and thinkers together on a common platform so that meaningful discussions can be held on Indian culture, security policy, and linguistic harmony.
Faced Opposition from Students As Well
Before the program, some students associated with the Students Federation of India (SFI) protested against Fadnavis's arrival. However, the protest was peaceful, and Fadnavis clearly stated from the stage that the right to protest is a part of democracy. He still shared his views, emphasizing linguistic unity and the diversity of Indian culture.
An Important Initiative from an Academic and Cultural Point of View
The Kusumagraj Center will focus on the preservation and expansion of Marathi language, literature, and cultural heritage. It will be an important center for teaching and research. At the same time, the Shivaji Maharaj Center will promote research on security studies and indigenous military traditions. Fadnavis said that it is a matter of pride that the strategic thinking and military history of Shivaji Maharaj will now be studied at a leading institution like JNU.
