As Karnataka grapples with rising tensions round language use, distinguished tech investor and former Infosys CFO T.V. Mohandas Pai has issued a pointed reminder: studying Kannada isn’t simply well mannered—it’s vital, particularly in public-facing roles.
“Bengaluru is without doubt one of the most inclusive cities in India,” Pai stated in an interview with PTI. “However some folks, as an alternative of integrating, develop a way of superiority and outright reject the native language. That’s not acceptable.”
Pai, who chairs Aarin Capital, criticized what he referred to as a rising “vanity” amongst sure newcomers to Bengaluru who make no try and study even fundamental Kannada. He warned that this refusal fosters pointless friction between migrants and locals.
His feedback come amid renewed debate across the visibility of Kannada in India’s tech capital, the place a surging migrant inhabitants has raised issues about cultural erosion and linguistic insensitivity.
On the coronary heart of Pai’s argument is a name for reciprocity: Karnataka has welcomed folks from throughout India, he stated, and the least they will do in return is present respect for the native tradition—beginning with the language.
Citing a latest incident involving an SBI supervisor who reportedly refused to talk Kannada with a buyer, Pai stated, “This whole episode might have been averted with just a bit humility. All she wanted to say was, ‘I’m nonetheless studying Kannada, let me ask a colleague to assist.’”
Pai’s message goes past Karnataka. He urged professionals throughout India to make related efforts when relocating—be it to Bengal, Maharashtra, or some other state. “It’s not nearly communication—it’s about respecting the tradition of the place you’ve chosen to reside in,” he stated.
He additionally highlighted the sensible necessity of Kannada in rural areas, the place many residents could not perceive Hindi or English. “In case you are posted in a village or small city, it’s your accountability to adapt,” he stated.
As Bengaluru balances its cosmopolitan progress with regional identification, Pai’s remarks add weight to a rising name: integration doesn’t imply erasure, and respect for language is step one towards actually belonging.
