Sanjay Dutt Refuses to Speak in Marathi After Maharashtra Minister’s Request

Actor Sanjay Dutt recently drew attention after he declined Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik’s request to speak in Marathi. The exchange took place during an event in Mumbai where both shared the stage. Sarnaik encouraged Dutt to address the audience in Marathi during the programme. Dutt responded humorously and referred to his time at Yerwada Jail. He said that he spent six years there but still could not learn Marathi properly. His light-hearted response made the audience laugh and kept the atmosphere relaxed. Dutt later thanked Sarnaik for inviting him to the event and praised their long friendship. He described Sarnaik as an old friend and brother while speaking to the audience.

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Sanjay Dutt Turns Down Marathi Speaking Request

Sarnaik had earlier told the gathering that he was teaching people Marathi these days. He then said he wanted Dutt to speak in Marathi because everyone present understood the language. The minister also pointed out that Dutt usually speaks Hindi during public appearances. Sarnaik connected his request with the Maharashtra government’s recent language-related decision. His department recently introduced Marathi language requirements for autorickshaw drivers in Mumbai. The decision has sparked debate and criticism across different sections of the city. Against this background, Sarnaik playfully asked Dutt to speak in Marathi at the event. Dutt instead used humour to explain why he could not fulfil the request.

Dutt told Sarnaik that even his six years at Yerwada Jail did not help him learn Marathi. He added that he managed to learn only a little during his stay there. The actor then thanked Sarnaik for inviting him and highlighted their long-standing relationship. Dutt said their association had continued for around 25 years. The friendly interaction created laughter among the audience and other dignitaries present there. Videos of the exchange later surfaced on social media and attracted considerable attention. Many users discussed Dutt’s humorous response and Sarnaik’s request in the comments. The incident also brought fresh attention to the ongoing debate over Marathi language usage in Mumbai.

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Marathi Language Debate Gains Fresh Attention in Mumbai

The exchange came at a time when Marathi language requirements have become a major discussion. Sarnaik has been promoting the use of Marathi through his public statements and departmental initiatives. His recent decision involving autorickshaw drivers has received mixed reactions across Mumbai. The minister used the event to continue highlighting the importance of understanding Marathi. However, Dutt chose to respond casually rather than turn the interaction into a serious debate. His remarks kept the conversation friendly while drawing attention to the language issue. The incident also showed how cultural and political discussions can emerge during celebrity appearances. Dutt’s response quickly became a talking point after videos of the event spread online.

Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt continues to remain active with several film projects and appearances. He recently featured in a cameo role in the 2026 Arabic film 7 Dogs. The film also featured Salman Khan and marked another international appearance for Dutt. His latest theatrical release was Abhijeet Mohan Warang’s political drama Aakhri Sawal. The 2026 film also starred Namashi Chakraborty, Amit Sadh, Tridha Choudhury and Sameera Reddy. Dutt has maintained a strong presence in the Hindi film industry throughout his career. His public appearances continue to attract attention alongside his work in cinema. The Mumbai event has now added another widely discussed moment to his recent public appearances.

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