Mumbai: As tensions over the Marathi language flare up across Maharashtra, Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty Kundra made headlines on Thursday for her poised and subtle response to the ongoing controversy while promoting her upcoming film KD: The Devil in Mumbai.
While interacting with the media, Shilpa was asked to comment on the recent threats and assaults by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) workers who have been accused of targeting people not speaking Marathi in public spaces. The question referred specifically to incidents where non-Marathi speakers were forced to use the regional language, sparking widespread debate on linguistic identity and freedom in the state.
Initially dodging the politically sensitive question, Shilpa humorously passed the mic to her co-star Sanjay Dutt, saying, “Iske baare mein Sanjay Dutt bolenge,” prompting laughter from the audience. However, in a later statement during the same interaction, Shilpa gracefully asserted her connection to the state. “Mala Marathi maahit aahe. Me Maharashtrachi mulgi aahe (I know Marathi. I am a daughter of Maharashtra),” she said, drawing applause from those present.
The actress, born in Mangalore and married to businessman Raj Kundra, who is Punjabi, chose not to engage directly with the political controversy, emphasizing that the event was meant to celebrate cinema. “We are here to talk about KD. If you’re trying to stir controversy beyond the film, we won’t encourage that,” she added firmly.
Shilpa also highlighted the inclusive appeal of KD: The Devil, a film that marks her return to Kannada cinema after 20 years. “Our movie is multilingual. Isko hum Marathi mein bhi dub kar sakte hai,” she said, earning support from her fellow cast members and the audience.
Her composed remarks have gone viral, with social media users lauding her dignified stance. Many praised her for balancing personal identity with a broader message of unity without stepping into political quicksand.
Maharashtra has recently seen repeated incidents of MNS members aggressively enforcing the use of Marathi, sparking fear and outrage among migrant workers and non-Marathi-speaking citizens. The issue has drawn political and media attention across the nation.
Directed by Prem, KD: The Devil also stars Dhruva Sarja and V Ravichandran and is said to be inspired by real events from 1970s Bengaluru. The film’s multilingual nature and pan-India appeal align with Shilpa’s message of inclusivity and respect for all cultures.
