The Indian government’s recent decision to add Bangla, Assamiya, and Marathi to the classical languages list raises concerns about fostering division. Historically, languages have served as both cultural markers and tools for societal division.
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- “Classical” is not just a linguistic feature but a historical marker.
- The term originated in Europe during the 16th century to distinguish between “classical” and “barbaric” languages.
- Sanskrit, Pali, and Tamil are universally accepted as classical languages.
- Prakrit, an early phase of many Indian languages, is less universally accepted as classical.
- In 2011, the Indian Census recorded 1,369 languages and over 1,000 “mother tongues.”
- Of these, 22 are included in the 8th Schedule, and 11 are designated classical.
- Critics argue expanding the list to include more languages may further fragment society.
- The hierarchical division of languages reflects societal divisions similar to caste.
- Elevating major languages risks marginalizing smaller, dying mother tongues.
- Every language reflects a unique worldview and deserves equal respect.
