Classical Languages in India: Political Gesture or Merit?

The designation of a language as a classical language in India is often seen as a political gesture rather than an inherent merit. This decision opens doors to various benefits and international recognition, but it raises questions about the criteria and the political implications behind such a decision.

Defining Classical Languages in India

Well, securing a classical tag is more of a political gesture than anything else. Political power can secure these tags even for languages like Java script, and we saw this happening with Sanskrit, an unspoken script that was given this prestigious status. However, as per traditional beliefs and cultural interpretations, Sanskrit cannot be uttered by women and is not a mother-tongue. Yet, it is classified as a classical language in India.

Current Status of Classical Languages in India

Currently, six languages in India, including Tamil, Telugu, Sanskrit, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia, have been declared as classical languages. Even Malayalam, which is 100 years old and a great-grandchild of Tamil, has been declared alongside its grandmother. Only Tamil meets all the 11 criteria prescribed for classical language status, making it the only true classical language under the current guidelines.

Political Declarations vs. Merit

It is important to not be misled by the political declarations and interpretations. The political landscapes in India often play a significant role in the selection process, and this can sometimes overshadow the inherent linguistic and cultural merits of the languages.

Benefits of Being a Classical Language

Langauges declared as classical can enjoy several benefits, such as the establishment of specialized centers for their study and the provision of international awards for their scholars. These benefits not only enhance the academic recognition of these languages but also help in preserving and promoting their cultural heritage.

Marathi's Quest for Classical Status

Recently, both houses of the Maharashtra legislature unanimously passed resolutions requesting the central government to provide the 'Classical language' status to Marathi. This move is indicative of the political and cultural significance of Marathi in the region and its contributions to Indian literature and language.

Conclusion

The classification of languages as classical in India remains a complex issue intertwining politics, cultural identity, and linguistic heritage. While it is crucial to recognize the benefits these designations bring, it is equally important to ensure that the criteria are transparent and based on merit rather than political maneuvering.