The ongoing language debate in India has intensified following remarks by actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan, which drew sharp criticism from the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Janasena Party leader had accused Tamil Nadu politicians of hypocrisy for opposing the imposition of Hindi while continuing to release Tamil films dubbed in Hindi for commercial gain. Responding to these remarks, DMK spokesperson Dr Syed Hafeezullah criticized Pawan Kalyan’s understanding of Tamil Nadu’s language stance, calling it a "hollow understanding" of their linguistic policies. Dr Hafeezullah emphasized that Tamil Nadu has never opposed individuals learning Hindi or any other language. Instead, the state's opposition has always been directed toward the forced imposition of Hindi or any language through policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) or PM SHRI schools. The controversy stems from Tamil Nadu’s long-standing resistance to Hindi imposition, which has remained a key part of its political identity since 1938. DMK leaders argue that equating Tamil Nadu's economic decisions, such as dubbing Tamil films in Hindi, with their opposition to Hindi imposition is misleading.
 

In his statement, Pawan Kalyan questioned Tamil Nadu’s linguistic stance, stating:

"I do not understand why some criticize Sanskrit. Why do Tamil Nadu politicians oppose Hindi while allowing their movies to be dubbed in Hindi for financial gain? They want labour from Bihar but are opposing Hindi. What kind of logic is that?" DMK leaders were quick to counter this claim. Dr Hafeezullah pointed out that Tamil Nadu voluntarily promotes Hindi learning through Hindi Prachar Sabhas, and anyone interested in learning Hindi is encouraged to do so. The real issue, he stressed, is the government’s attempt to mandate Hindi through educational policies, which Tamil Nadu firmly opposes. Senior DMK leader TKS Elangovan elaborated on Tamil Nadu’s historical stance, reminding critics that the state passed legislation in 1968 reaffirming its commitment to the two-language formula (Tamil and English).
 

"We have opposed Hindi imposition since 1938. Tamil Nadu follows the two-language formula because educational experts advised that mother-tongue education is the most effective. Pawan Kalyan should understand this history before commenting. His remarks seem politically motivated to gain favor with the BJP," Mr Elangovan said. Prominent actor and politician Prakash Raj also voiced his criticism against Pawan Kalyan’s remarks. Sharing his views on social media, Prakash Raj stated: "Someone please tell Pawan Kalyan that asking you not to impose your language on us is not hatred for the language but is to protect our language, our mother, and our self-respect."
 

Meanwhile, the BJP openly supported Pawan Kalyan’s stance. BJP leader Vikram Randhawa remarked that Hindi should be promoted aggressively in southern states. "Hindi is our national language, and the government is working to ensure it reaches the masses. Unfortunately, previous governments have tried to suppress the culture of nationalism. The use of Hindi should be implemented strongly in the South as well," Mr Randhawa said. However, Randhawa’s claim that Hindi is India’s "national language" is incorrect. Hindi holds the status of one of India's official languages but is not designated as the national language under the Constitution. As the language debate continues, Tamil Nadu leaders remain firm in their resistance to Hindi imposition, while political figures like Pawan Kalyan and BJP leaders push for a stronger Hindi presence in the southern states. The controversy highlights the ongoing cultural and political divide over language policies in India.