Experiences Learning Indian Languages Beyond the Mother Tongue
Language is a fascinating aspect of any culture, and in India, the richness of its linguistic heritage is unparalleled. For me, Gujarati has always been my mother tongue, and the journey to understanding and appreciating other Indian languages has been an enriching experience.
My Mother Language: Gujarati
Gujarati, my mother tongue, holds a special place in my heart. It is the language of my upbringing, the dialect I first heard on my mother’s lap and the language that shaped my early years. From stories of ancient scriptures to the cadence of traditional poetry, Gujarati has been integral to my identity.
A Homeplace of Multilingualism
My mother is half Telugu and half Kashmiri, creating a bridge between different linguistic roots. This heritage has made me naturally inclined to embrace the multilingual environment of India. I have learned English and Hindi in school, which laid the foundation for connecting with a wider audience and understanding media and educational materials in these languages. However, my experiences with other Indian languages have been deeply personal and transformative.
Exploring Other Languages: Telugu and Kashmiri
From my mother's side, I've also picked up Telugu, the language of my grandmother and a significant part of my extended family. The structure and vocabulary of Telugu are quite different from Gujarati, and learning it has been a journey of discovery. It’s fascinating how each language carries its unique culture and traditions. Additionally, I’ve retained a few phrases in Kashmiri, influenced by my grandmother’s side of the family. Although not fluent, these few phrases connect me to my roots in Kashmir and the mystical language of the valley.
An Easy and Wonderful Journey: Marathi
Learning Marathi was undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable experiences. Growing up in an area with a significant Marathi-speaking population, I was exposed to the language from a young age. Marathi is a beautiful and sophisticated language that holds a rich literary tradition. The simplicity and ease of mastering Marathi were refreshing. It was like adding another piece to the puzzle of understanding the diverse landscape of Indian languages. Cultural exchanges through plays, theatre, and local festivals where Marathi was widely used further enriched my appreciation for the language.
Living in Rajasthan: Marwari
Currently residing in Rajasthan, I have also become familiar with Marwari, the language of the Rajasthani people. The differences between Marwari and Marathi are subtle, yet the experience of learning another major Indian language has been rewarding. Marwari, with its unique grammar and vocabulary, has added another layer to my linguistic horizon. The rich dialects and cultural nuances of Rajasthan, when expressed in Marwari, offer a glimpse into the region's history and traditions.
Conclusion
The experience of learning Indian languages beyond my mother tongue has been both enlightening and enriching. Each new language added another dimension to my understanding of India’s cultural and linguistic diversity. From Gujarati and Telugu to Marathi and Marwari, these languages have not only widened my linguistic skills but also deepened my connection with the Indian subcontinent's rich tapestry. As I continue to explore and learn, I am constantly amazed by the linguistic richness and the cultural heritage that comes with it.