Recently retired cricketing icon Ravichandran Ashwin found himself at the center of a potential debate after making a statement about the status of Hindi in India. Speaking at a graduation ceremony at a private engineering college in Tamil Nadu, Ashwin boldly remarked, “Hindi isn’t our national language; it’s an official language.” His remark, expressed in Tamil, has sparked discussions, especially in a state where the imposition of Hindi has long been a contentious issue.
A Bold Assertion in a Sensitive Context
While addressing the students, Ashwin asked if anyone was comfortable asking questions in Hindi. The crowd’s silence to this query was met with his observation:
“I felt it necessary to clarify that Hindi isn’t our national language; it’s simply one of the official languages of our country.”
This statement comes at a time when Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK and other opposition parties have accused the central government of pushing Hindi on non-Hindi-speaking states. The veteran off-spinner’s comment aligns with the sentiment of many in Tamil Nadu, a state known for its resistance to linguistic dominance.
Reflections on Team India and Leadership
Ashwin didn’t limit his reflections to the topic of language. He also shared his views on leadership, touching on Team India’s captaincy—a subject often ripe for speculation. Though diplomatic in tone, Ashwin’s words offered a glimpse into his mindset:
“When someone says, ‘You cannot do it,’ it fuels my determination to prove them wrong. But if they say I can, I lose interest.”
This attitude, laced with defiance and determination, reflects the resilience Ashwin displayed throughout his outstanding career.
Sharing Life Lessons: From Engineering to Cricket
As an engineering graduate turned cricketing stalwart, Ashwin drew from his unique journey to motivate the students. His advice was rooted in perseverance and a passion for learning:
“If you embrace being a student, you will keep growing endlessly. But if you don’t, learning will stop, and excellence will become nothing more than a forgotten word gathering dust.”
Encouraging students to persist despite self-doubt, Ashwin revealed that had anyone discouraged him from pursuing captaincy, he would have worked even harder to achieve it:
“Never give up. Stay focused and patient, even when faced with doubts,” he urged.
Ashwin’s Retirement: A Surprise to Many
Ashwin’s reflections come shortly after his surprising retirement from international cricket, which left fans and the cricketing fraternity stunned. Known as one of the most cerebral players of his generation, Ashwin’s career has been marked by his ability to adapt, innovate, and excel in challenging conditions.
His statements at the event were a blend of wit, wisdom, and subtle provocations, a befitting reflection of the man who has always been unafraid to speak his mind.
A Catalyst for Conversations
Ashwin’s comment on Hindi is likely to reverberate deeply in Tamil Nadu, where the language issue isn’t just a cultural matter but a political one. In a state that prides itself on its linguistic heritage, his observation is poised to spark fresh conversations about the role of Hindi and the concept of linguistic equality in India.
However, Ashwin’s speech wasn’t about controversy alone. It was a thoughtful mix of personal stories, motivational insights, and socio-political awareness, proving once again why he’s respected not just for his cricketing acumen but also for his intellect and candor.