Do Indians Feel Ashamed to Speak English? A Real Conversation

Hello Steemit!
I’m yongpal, and today I want to talk about something that often goes unnoticed—but deeply felt.

India is a country filled with languages. Everywhere you go, you’ll hear different accents, dialects, and expressions. But among all these languages, English holds a special place. It opens doors, creates opportunities, and connects people globally. Yet, there’s an uncomfortable question many people avoid asking:
Do Indians feel ashamed to speak English?
From my observations and conversations, the answer isn’t simply yes or no.

For some people, English still carries the shadow of history. Because of colonial influence, it’s sometimes seen as a language of elites. Speaking English in casual settings can make someone feel like they’re being judged—either for “showing off” or for not speaking it perfectly.

Another factor is comfort. Many Indians naturally feel more confident speaking their mother tongue. Switching to English can feel awkward, especially when there’s fear of making mistakes or being laughed at. Sadly, this fear often silences voices.

The education system adds to this pressure. English is taught widely, but speaking practice is limited. Many people can read and write well, yet hesitate when it comes to speaking. The need to sound “correct” creates anxiety instead of confidence.

But things are changing.
Social media, movies, and online communities are slowly reshaping how English is viewed. More young people now see it as a tool—not a status symbol.
I’ve heard different stories.

One young professional from Mumbai told me he avoids speaking English with friends because he doesn’t want to seem fake. Meanwhile, a college student from Delhi shared how English helped her connect with people from different cultures and build confidence. A businessman from Bangalore said something that really stuck with me: confidence matters more than perfect grammar.

A linguist once said, language is not just communication—it’s identity. I believe this is true. In India, English is slowly becoming less about history and more about choice.

Final Thoughts
Not all Indians feel ashamed to speak English—but many feel hesitant. And hesitation often comes from fear, not inability.

Language should empower us, not limit us.
What about you?

Have you ever felt uncomfortable speaking a certain language? Or has a language ever opened new doors for you?

Let’s talk in the comments. I’d love to hear your thoughts.