A brief exchange between a Marathi-speaking passenger and an airport staff member at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has triggered a broader conversation on language expectations and professionalism. The incident has reignited discussions on balancing regional identity with operational practicality at India’s busiest aviation hubs
How The Incident Unfolded:
The passenger asked the staff member to speak in Marathi, to which the employee replied, “Mala Marathi yet nahi,” indicating he was unable to communicate in the language.
Heated Reaction Nearby:
A young bystander objected to what he termed “language imposition,” arguing that workplace roles should be judged on qualifications, not regional language ability.
Diversity At Indian Airports:
Airports handle travellers from across India and abroad, making Hindi and English the primary operational languages for staff communication.
Regional Language vs Professional Duty:
The episode has sparked debate on whether knowing a local language should be mandatory for frontline airport personnel.
Industry Perspective:
Aviation observers stress that while regional languages should be respected, service efficiency and passenger assistance remain the top priority