The Indian government has recently recognized five languages—Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali—as classical languages, bringing the total to eleven. This designation is significant as it underscores the cultural heritage embedded within these languages. The Ministry of Culture is responsible for recommending languages for this status, ensuring that they meet specific criteria, including a historical record dating back 1,500 to 2,000 years and a rich literary tradition.
What Are Classical Languages?
Classical languages are those that encapsulate ancient cultural heritage, offering historical and cultural identity to their respective communities. To qualify as a classical language, a language must have an ancient literary corpus and must not be a derivative of another language.
Who Makes the Recommendations?
The recommendation process for including languages in the classical category is conducted by a specialist committee under the Ministry of Culture. This committee comprises representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Culture, along with four to five language experts. The committee is chaired by the President of the Sahitya Akademi.
Benefits of Classical Language Status
Recognition as a classical language brings numerous benefits, such as the digitization and preservation of ancient literary treasures, including texts, poetry, and dramas. This ensures that future generations can appreciate and understand their cultural legacy. Additionally, national awards are instituted for classical languages, and academic institutions are encouraged to establish chairs for these languages. The central government also provides support for promoting classical languages, ensuring their continued relevance in modern society.
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Positive Takeaway
In summary, the inclusion of these five languages in the classical category not only honors their historical significance but also paves the way for their preservation and promotion for future generations.
