Controversy over Sanjay Dutt’s remarks on Marathi; questions raised over Shiv Sena minister’s laughter

September 7, 2026

Mumbai: Actor Sanjay Dutt has once again found himself at the center of a controversy. This time, the issue concerns the Marathi language in Maharashtra. During a Dahi-Handi event, a remark made by Sanjay Dutt after being asked to speak in Marathi sparked a political debate. Shiv Sena leader and Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, who was present with him, has also been drawn into the controversy.

Sanjay Dutt jokes after being asked to speak in Marathi

At the Dahi-Handi event, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik asked Sanjay Dutt to speak in Marathi. In response, the actor remarked that he had spent six years in Yerwada Jail yet failed to learn Marathi. He then laughed.

Sanjay Dutt’s comment became a topic of discussion on social media and in political circles. Issues regarding the Marathi language have frequently sparked controversy in Maharashtra in the past.

BJP MLA targets Sarnaik

BJP MLA Narendra Mehta raised questions about Pratap Sarnaik laughing at Sanjay Dutt’s remark. He pointed out that while jokes are being made about an actor not knowing Marathi, ordinary citizens often face threats and physical assault over this very language issue.

Mehta questioned why there are different rules for common people and prominent figures. Targeting Sarnaik, he also accused him of a discrepancy between his statements and his behavior.

Congress also targets Shiv Sena

The Congress party also joined the fray. Party spokesperson Atul Londhe accused the Shiv Sena of playing politics over the Marathi language.

Londhe stated that initiatives taken during the tenure of former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan played a crucial role in Marathi receiving the status of a ‘Classical Language.’ He alleged that the BJP and the Shinde-led Shiv Sena are exploiting the language issue for political gain. Issue of Marathi Language Heats Up Again in Maharashtra

The issue of the Marathi language has long been a sensitive one in Maharashtra. Disputes also arise periodically regarding people arriving from other states for employment and work.

Marathi organizations argue that the local language should be prioritized in public and official communication within the state. Meanwhile, following Sanjay Dutt’s remarks, the debate surrounding language, politics, and the treatment of the common people has intensified once again.