Mumbai auto, taxi drivers begin speaking Marathi as language mandate takes effect

Updated On: 16 August, 2026 07:39 AM IST | Mumbai | Ritika Gondhalekar

Mumbai’s auto rickshaw and taxi drivers began using more Marathi on Saturday after the language was made mandatory for them. While some drivers are still learning and completing certification, others are embracing basic Marathi phrases in daily conversations with passengers

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Imam Shaikh (left), Salim Kureshi (above), and Ramdas Kanojia (below in white) say learning from real-life conversation with passengers is easier than learning in a classroom. Pics/Ritika Gondhalekar

Mumbai's auto rickshaw and taxi drivers began speaking more Marathi on Saturday as the language was made mandatory for them, with many drivers showing a positive attitude towards learning and using the language while interacting with passengers.

While several drivers are yet to speak Marathi fluently or confidently, and are yet to complete the mandatory certification course, many were seen making an effort to use basic Marathi phrases while communicating with commuters. For some, the process is still one of learning through everyday conversations.