Ravichandran Ashwin's 'Hindi Not National Language' Remark Fuels Language Debate

The retired cricketer's statement at a Chennai event highlights India's ongoing tensions over language identity and official status.

Ravichandran Ashwin stated at a Chennai graduation ceremony that Hindi is an official language, not India's national language, drawing attention to a sensitive topic in Tamil Nadu.
Ashwin's comment came after observing the audience's enthusiastic response to Tamil and English but a muted reaction to Hindi during his speech.
The remark reignited debates over language imposition, with Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai supporting Ashwin's position and referencing the state's longstanding opposition to Hindi imposition.
The ruling DMK party in Tamil Nadu backed Ashwin's statement, while some critics on social media questioned his motivations and timing, suggesting political aspirations.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, remains a prominent figure in Tamil Nadu and continues to engage in public discourse post-retirement.