Why Do Indian Hindus Speak the Islamic Origin Hindi Language?
The integration of Islamic elements into the Hindi language, predominantly found in North India, is a subject of considerable discourse. This integration is often attributed to the cultural assimilation of the peoples of North India under Islamic rule. The predominance of Islamic practices and terms in the Hindi language raises questions about the extent of Islamic influence on Hindu culture in this region.
The Indigenous Hinduism of Northern India
Contrary to popular belief, the spiritual and cultural forms of Hinduism that are often considered indigenous to Northern India may have been significantly altered or even replaced by Islamic customs. Many Hindus living in North India do not practice traditional Hindu rites and rituals as deeply as they should, and instead have adopted Islamic practices in their daily lives.
Some of the common Hindu religious observances such as Egadasi Viradham Theemidhi, Panguni Uthiram, and Thai Poosam are unfamiliar to many individuals who identify as Hindus. This indicates a lack of awareness and practice of traditional Hindu customs, suggesting a cultural shift towards Islamic practices.
The Spiritual and Religious Capital of India: Tamil Nadu
In contrast to the Islamic influence in Northern India, Tamil Nadu stands as the spiritual and religious heart of India. It is home to the highest number of temples and spiritual worshippers. Unlike the North, Tamil Nadu exhibits a blend of inter-religious customs. Certain mosques in Tamil Nadu are visited by spiritual Hindus, and many temples in Tamil Nadu are frequented by spiritual Muslims and Christians alike. This widespread acceptance of diverse religious practices highlights the unique cultural landscape of Tamil Nadu.
The Origin and Development of Hindi/Urdu
The term 'Hindi' and the language associated with it is often misleading, as it has deep Islamic origins. The Urdu language, with its present Devanagari script, was labeled as 'Hindi' during the time of British colonial rule, which simplifies the complex linguistic and cultural history.
John Gilchrist, a Scotsman, is credited with the invention of the "Hindi" language. This fact challenges the notion that the Hindi language has roots in Sanskrit, and instead, it points towards a history of linguistic fusion with Islamic influences.
Political and Linguistic Manipulation
The imposition of the "Hindi" language by political and communal forces has been a tool to reinforce cultural dominance. Groups such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), and other aligned entities have championed the use of Hindi as a means to promote Hindutva and suppress other linguistic identities. This has led to the creation of false narratives about the origin and nature of the Hindi language, aiming to propagate an inclusionary ideology that excludes minorities and those with a different cultural background.
The academic and political manipulation of language and culture has had profound effects on the identity and practices of people in North India. The term 'Hindu' has become a misnomer for many, misrepresenting their true cultural and religious affiliations.
Conclusion
The integration of Islamic elements into the Hindi language and the associated cultural practices in many parts of North India reflects a broader historical process of cultural transformation. The emphasis on the true spiritual and religious practices of India, which particularly thrive in regions like Tamil Nadu, underscores the need to critically evaluate and preserve the rich cultural heritage that is often overshadowed by dominant narratives.