Sanjay Bangar calls Hindi national language during commentary, gets reality check

During the first ODI between India and New Zealand, commentator Sanjay Bangar found himself at the center of controversy after referring to Hindi as the "national language." His comment, made casually during the live broadcast, quickly ignited backlash from viewers and social media users who were quick to point out the factual inaccuracy of his statement. India, a nation with a rich tapestry of languages, does not have a designated national language, though Hindi and English are both official languages. The remark sparked a flurry of responses online, with many emphasizing the importance of recognizing and respecting India's linguistic diversity. Critics highlighted that India is home to 22 officially recognized languages, and labeling one as the national language overlooks the cultural and linguistic plurality that defines the country. The incident served as a reminder of the sensitivities surrounding language politics in India, where regional pride and identity are closely tied to language. In response to the backlash, Bangar clarified his intention, stating that he meant Hindi as a widely spoken language in India and did not intend to undermine other languages. Despite the clarification, the incident underscores the need for public figures to exercise caution and precision in their language, particularly in a multicultural context. As the conversation around linguistic identity continues, this episode has reignited discussions on how best to celebrate and preserve the diverse languages of India.

— Authored by Next24 Live