Nepali Language: Viable and Thriving, Not Dying

The assertion that the Nepali language is dying, based on the claim that it is spoken primarily in Nepal and among Nepali communities worldwide, is incorrect. While the language faces challenges, it is far from disappearing. It has a robust presence in education, government, media, and literature, ensuring its continued vitality.

Is the Nepali Language Dying?

The numbers are compelling. Nepali is spoken by approximately 17 million native speakers and about 3.5 million second language speakers, totaling around 20.5 million people worldwide. This includes its status as an official language in Nepal and India. Additionally, it is the official or a key language in Bhutan, Sikkim, and Darjeeling, making its importance undeniable. Given the sheer number of speakers and its official status in two countries, it is far from dying.

Factors Influencing the Survival of Nepali

Several factors determine whether a language is considered sustainable, and Nepali has considerable strengths across these categories:

1. Number of Native Speakers and Second Language Speakers

Nepali has a substantial number of native speakers, with significant populations in Nepal, India (including the 2001 census data), Bhutan, and other parts of the world. Approximately 12.3 million people speak Nepali as their native language, and another 8.1 million speak it as a second language, making the total estimated population of Nepali speakers around 20.4 million. This indicates a strong base of users.

2. Usage and Literature

The utilization of Nepali in various domains, including education, government, media, and literature, underpins its sustainability. For instance, in Nepal, it remains the official language and a primary medium of instruction in schools. Similarly, in Darjeeling, a significant portion of the population speaks Nepali. Its rich literature further solidifies its status. Hundreds of books are published in Nepali annually, and its cultural impact is widely recognized. The contributions from the Nepali diaspora in various parts of the world, including Asia, Europe, America, and India, have enriched this literary landscape.

3. Cultural and Linguistic Preservation Efforts

Various organizations and individuals are actively working to preserve and promote Nepali. Educational institutions, local and national governments, and cultural initiatives are crucial in maintaining the language's vitality. These efforts span from promoting language education in schools to supporting literature and media in Nepali. The language's continued presence in diverse sectors ensures that it remains vibrant and relevant, not just in its primary homeland but also in the broader global context.

4. Challenges Faced by Nepali

Despite its resilience, Nepali faces challenges such as urbanization and migration, globalization, and language policy. Urban areas and migration often shift people towards more dominant languages like English or Hindi. Globalization influences the shift towards global languages, particularly in contexts like business and technology. Additionally, the promotion of other regional languages in Nepal could impact the use of Nepali, and the intermingling of cultures and languages can lead to code-switching, potentially diluting its use.

Nepali Language in a Broader Context

Language vitality is measured by its status in modern society, particularly within the education system and media. Nepali is the primary language in Nepalese schools and continues to play a key role in government and literature. In Darjeeling, it is the primary language spoken by more than 80% of the population in certain subdivisions. The use of Nepali in education, media, and literature ensures its continued growth and relevance.

Conclusion: Nepali is Thriving

English is indeed a prevalent global language, but it does not overshadow the critical role of Nepali in various contexts. The language's literature, its official status in multiple regions, and its continued usage in diverse domains all confirm its vibrant and thriving status. So, let us celebrate the rich and diverse linguistic landscape of Nepal and the continued vitality of the Nepali language. Long live Nepali! Jay Nepal!