Language Divide Ignites Maharashtra’s Election Discourse: Celebrities Enter the Fray

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As the political temperature rises with each phase of elections in Maharashtra, a new wave of allegations and counter-allegations is gripping the state, further polarizing voters. Amidst the fervor, issues like the Marathi versus Gujarati debate have taken center stage, particularly in Mumbai and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), sparking heated discussions and drawing attention from unexpected quarters, including celebrities.

Renowned actress Renuka Shahane, known for her roles in both Bollywood and the iconic ‘Surabhi’ program on Doordarshan, recently took to social media to voice her concerns. In a poignant post, she urged voters to refrain from supporting candidates who propagate anti-Marathi sentiments or fail to provide housing to Marathi-speaking individuals. “Please don’t vote for candidates or parties who support people whose workplaces Marathi language or people are looked down upon,” she emphasized, highlighting the importance of respecting language and culture within Maharashtra.

However, Shahane’s appeal didn’t go unanswered. BJP State Women’s Cell President, Chitra Wagh, swiftly responded with a letter challenging Shahane’s assertions. Wagh questioned the timing of Shahane’s appeal, insinuating potential political motives behind it. She condemned any discrimination against Marathi individuals but also cautioned against exploiting language issues for political gains. Wagh pointedly addressed Shahane’s reference to a particular society in Ghatkopar, highlighting that Marathi families coexist harmoniously there.

Furthermore, Wagh called on Shahane to take a stand against individuals who, despite being Marathi, allegedly engaged in fraudulent activities, including profiteering from the sale of essential COVID-19 supplies and mismanagement of funds allocated for oxygen plants. She urged Shahane to refrain from remaining silent on such matters under the guise of politics, emphasizing the importance of integrity over political expediency.

The exchange between Shahane and Wagh underscores the complex dynamics at play in Maharashtra’s electoral landscape, where linguistic identity intertwines with political allegiances. As the elections unfold, such debates serve as a reminder of the diverse challenges and perspectives that shape the state’s socio-political fabric.