Bengaluru cafe's Hindi signboard causes online outrage

A signboard at a cafe in Bengaluru has sparked controversy over the use of the Hindi language. A video shared online shows the sign at Sri Guru Darshan Cafe stating, "Hindi is the official language." This has reignited debates about language in Karnataka, particularly in its diverse capital. Many feel that promoting Kannada is essential for respecting local culture. However, some believe this expectation can be exclusionary in a city known for its multicultural population. The signboard led to various reactions, raising concerns about its message. The local police in Vidyaranyapura responded after the video went viral. They clarified that the sign was put up by an individual named Babu, not the cafe owner, who was unaware of it. The police confirmed that the sign has now been removed and the matter is under review. Comments on social media showed mixed feelings. Some users expressed frustration about the language barriers they faced in Bengaluru. Others insisted on respecting the local culture while emphasizing the need for clarity about who was responsible for the sign. A few even suggested that the sign might have been altered by someone else. This incident highlights ongoing tensions around language in Bengaluru, as the city grapples with its identity in a multicultural setting.