A viral video capturing a heated exchange between a non-Kannadiga man and an auto-rickshaw driver in Bengaluru has reignited the long-standing debate over language politics in Karnataka’s capital city. The altercation, which took place inside a moving auto, has stirred sharp reactions online, especially among Kannada speakers.
In the video, the man can be seen telling the auto driver, “Speak in Hindi if you want to stay in Bengaluru,” as his friends try to pacify him. The driver, visibly angered, responds firmly, “You have come to Bengaluru, you speak in Kannada. I won’t speak in Hindi.”
Though the exact trigger of the argument remains unclear, the man’s demand has drawn widespread criticism on social media, with many condemning what they see as linguistic imposition and disrespect for the local language.
ಹಿಂದಿ ನಮ್ಮ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರ ಭಾಷೆ ಅಲ್ಲ. pic.twitter.com/sKBlGmbdX0
— ವಿನಯ್. ಎಸ್. ರೆಡ್ಡಿ (@Vinayreddy71) April 18, 2025
‘Linguistic Arrogance’
X (formerly Twitter) users reacted strongly. One post read, “I don’t support pro-Kannada hooliganism, but the Hindi guy in the video deserves belt treatment. He’s come here and expects locals to speak his language?” Another user noted, “Most Kannadigas in Bengaluru already know Hindi. Then why is it difficult for outsiders to learn a bit of Kannada?”
The video has reopened conversations around linguistic coexistence in Bengaluru — a city known for its multicultural and multilingual character. Several users criticized what they called the ‘Hindi arrogance’, with one saying, “No other language speakers demand others to speak their tongue. Hindi speakers feel entitled.”
Others also highlighted the need for mutual respect and adaptability, pointing out that India has no national language. “The Constitution does not declare Hindi as the national language. People need to learn that,” a user posted.
As the debate continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance Bengaluru maintains between being a global tech hub and a city with deep-rooted linguistic pride.