BJYM Demands Replacing ‘Salaam Mumbai’ With ‘Namaskar Mumbai’ at Wankhede Stadium During IPL

The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) has urged the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) to replace the phrase “Salaam Mumbai” with “Namaskar Mumbai” at Mumbai’s iconic Wankhede Stadium during IPL matches.

BJYM Mumbai President Deepak Singh has written to MCA President Ajinkya Naik demanding the change, stating that “Namaskar Mumbai” better reflects Marathi culture and the linguistic identity of Maharashtra. According to Singh, the greeting “Namaskar” is deeply rooted in local traditions and should be prominently used at one of Mumbai’s most recognised sporting venues.

In his appeal, Singh said that cricket is closely connected with the emotions of Mumbai residents and that the IPL serves as a global platform showcasing the city’s culture. He argued that using “Namaskar Mumbai” instead of “Salaam Mumbai” would strengthen the representation of Marathi language and heritage before both national and international audiences.

The demand has sparked discussion on social media, with supporters calling it a move to promote regional identity, while others view it as an unnecessary controversy over language usage. The Mumbai Cricket Association has not yet issued an official response to the request.

Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha leaders have said they hope the MCA will consider the proposal ahead of upcoming IPL fixtures at Wankhede Stadium.