Veteran actor Rajinikanth, on Wednesday, 18 September, said the concept of a common language in India was "unfortunately" not possible. He asserted any attempts of Hindi imposition will not only be resisted by southern states, but even many in the north.
The actor's remarks came in response to Union Home Minister Amit Shah's recent pitch for using Hindi as a common language.
“A common language, not just for India but any country, is good for its unity and progress. Unfortunately, (one cannot) bring a common language in our country. So you cannot impose any language,” he told reporters at the airport in Chennai.
"Especially, if you impose Hindi, not just Tamil Nadu, no southern state will accept that. Many states in northern parts will also not accept that," he said.
Amit Shah Pitches for Common Language
On Saturday, Shah had pitched for a common language for the country and said it is Hindi, which is spoken the most and hence can unite the whole nation.
The home minister had also said efforts would be made to expand Hindi to different parts of the country and asked everyone to use their native languages as much as possible.
“India has many languages and every language has its importance. But it is absolutely necessary that the entire country should have one language that becomes India’s identity globally,” he had said.
The remarks had drawn widespread criticism, especially in Tamil Nadu, with the BJP's ally, the ruling AIADMK saying there will be only "adverse reaction" if Hindi is imposed in the state.
The DMK, whose leader Stalin had dubbed Shah's statement as "shocking," has announced a state-wide stir on Friday against the home minister’s Hindi pitch.
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