'Its An Insult To Not Know': Actor Dhanush Urges Students To Prioratise Tamil Language; Sparks Online Discussion On Political Ambitions
· Free Press Journal
Tamil cinema star Dhanush has sparked a renewed conversation about language and cultural identity in Tamil Nadu after appealing to students to stay connected with their mother tongue. The actor said that knowing Tamil should be considered a source of pride and that people should make efforts to learn how to read and write the language.
Dhanush shared these views while interacting with students and teachers at Thaai Sathya Matriculation School in Chennai, where he studied during his childhood. His speech focused on the importance of balancing modern education with respect for one’s linguistic roots.
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Dhanush talks about declining tamil literacy
Recalling his school years, Dhanush said he was not fluent in English during his early education and often made mistakes while speaking it. However, he was comfortable communicating in Tamil.
#Dhanush's Latest Speech about Tamil:
— Laxmi Kanth (@iammoviebuff007) August 5, 2026
• When I was studying, I didn't know English very well. Now, it's the opposite. Out of 10 people, 8 don't know how to read or write in Tamil. That's a sad thing.
• I worked on a French production in Belgium. They asked me whether I knew…
The actor expressed concern over the changing language habits among younger generations, pointing out that many students today can communicate in English but struggle to read and write Tamil. He said this shift was disappointing and stressed the need to preserve Tamil literacy.
According to Dhanush, learning English is valuable, but it should be viewed as an additional skill rather than a replacement for one’s native language.
Actor recalls lesson from his international experience
Dhanush also narrated an incident from the shooting of a French production in Belgium. He said he was surprised when people there reacted differently to his knowledge of English.
Realest thing Dhanush has said. Knowing your mother tongue is identity, English is just a skill.
— zh7tv (@zh7news) August 5, 2026
The actor explained that in many countries, people first value their own language and consider English a useful extra skill. He said this experience reinforced his belief that individuals should develop a strong connection with their mother tongue.
"Learn your mother tongue first," Dhanush tells students
Addressing the students, Dhanush encouraged them to learn Tamil properly, including reading and writing skills. He said that admitting one does not know their mother tongue should not be treated as an achievement.
The actor also expressed gratitude to his Tamil teacher, acknowledging the role educators play in helping students develop language skills and cultural awareness.
New school building named after Dhanush
During his visit, Dhanush inaugurated a newly built three-storey facility at Thaai Sathya Matriculation School. The institution named the new structure the “Dhanush Block” after the actor contributed towards its renovation.
Athu onnum illa avaru appa avaru valaru edutha Telugu kandu pudichiyagala athaa ippo thai mozhi Tamil nu solla start pandra... clear he is in poltics track
— KTown (@prethive_faro) August 5, 2026
The event brought attention not only to the school’s development but also to Dhanush’s views on education and language preservation.
Dhanush’s remarks fuel fresh language discussion in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has long witnessed debates around language, education, and cultural identity. Dhanush’s comments have added another voice to the discussion, particularly around the importance of maintaining Tamil among younger generations.
His statements have also drawn attention amid ongoing speculation about his possible political ambitions, though the actor’s message at the school event centered mainly on education, language, and cultural values.