As linguists dedicate their efforts to rescuing enangered languages, the collective endeavor contributes to the broader discourse on the significance of linguistic diversity and the preservation of cultural heritage, writes Sadaket Malik.
Sadaket Ali Malik
Revitalising and maintaining Indigenous languages in any region hold the key to understanding who they really are?
India, with its cultural diversity, boasts a linguistic landscape that is as varied as it is fascinating. While one estimate suggests a staggering 1652 languages are spoken across the country, the Indian constitution officially recognizes 22 major languages. These languages find a place in the 8th Schedule of the Constitution, reflecting the linguistic plurality that defines India.
The two official languages of India, as enshrined in the constitution, are Hindi and English. However, it’s important to note that Hindi is not designated as the national language. Instead, it holds the status of an official language, along with English. India, unique in its approach, refrains from declaring any specific language as the national language. This intentional choice reflects the nation’s commitment to honoring its linguistic diversity.
India’s linguistic landscape is an evidence to the nation’s ethical values of unity in diversity. The 22 recognized languages, including Sanskrit, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, Marathi, Punjabi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu, among others, mirror the complex yet harmonious coexistence of cultures and languages. English and Hindi, while playing important roles in administration, serve as bridges that connect the diverse linguistic communities across the vast expanse of the Indian subcontinent.
Preserving Indigenous and western Pahari and ethnic kashmiri languages in Doda, Jammu, goes beyond mere linguistic efforts; it is a fundamental aspect of cultural preservation. These languages show unique expressions, historical narratives, and traditional knowledge that define the identity of the erstwhile Doda. Revitalizing these languages not only fosters a sense of belonging but also helps pass down ancestral wisdom, fostering intergenerational connectivity. As linguistic diversity diminishes globally, efforts to maintain these languages in Doda serve as a testament to the richness of the region’s cultural tapestry and contribute to the broader global conversation on the importance of safeguarding linguistic heritage.
The diverse of pahari indigenous languages in Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, such as Bhaderwahi, Bhalesi, Padri, Sarazi, Pogali, Saroori, Bonjwali, Dachni, Marvi, Zundhari, Khashali, Mehasbi, Siram, ethnic kashmiri (spoken by majority population in chenab region) and various smaller dialects, represents a rich linguistic identity . Showcasing this linguistic diversity is important for fostering a comprehensive understanding of the local identity and ensuring the representation of these languages in official frameworks.
The classification of languages and dialects, including those in Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, under Western Pahari by linguists like GA Grierson reflects a historical linguistic categorization. However, it’s essential to recognize the distinctiveness of each language and dialect within this broader classification. Acknowledging the unique linguistic features of Bhaderwahi, Bhalesi, Padri, Sarazi, Pogali, Saroori, Bonjwali, Dachni, Marvi, Zundhari, Khashali, Mehasbi, ethnic kashmiri, Siram, and others allows for a more accurate representation of the linguistic diversity in the region. Collaborative efforts between linguists, communities, and policymakers can contribute to understanding and preservation of these languages beyond overarching classifications.
The indigenous language movement plays a crucial role in resurrecting lost languages, offering significant benefits to indigenous populations. However, the unfolding tragedy lies in the challenges reflected in the Census of India data and Pagari Board survey. These sources may not fully capture the richness and diversity of indigenous languages, potentially leading to an underrepresentation of linguistic heritage. Addressing these gaps in data is essential for informed policymaking, ensuring the recognition, and preserving the cultural and linguistic identity of indigenous communities.
The J&K Board for Development of Pahari Speaking People (PSP) survey of 2018 indicates varied percentages of Pahari-speaking people across regions, including Anantnag (7.86%), Budgam (0.70%), Bandipore (4.33%), Baramulla (14%), and Doda (0%). However, it’s important to note that these statistics may not fully account for Western Pahari classified languages like Bhalesi, Sarazi, and Bhaderwahi, pogali, which contribute significantly to the western Pahari group by Ist linguistic survey. Furthermore, discrepancies in reporting, such as showing 0% Pahari dialects in certain areas, highlight the need for a more accurate and inclusive approach to data collection for a comprehensive understanding of linguistic diversity in Jammu and Kashmir.
The contrasting statistics between the J&K Board for Development of Pahari Speaking People (PSP) survey of 2018 and the Census of India 2011 emphasize the importance of robust and accurate data collection methodologies. The census figures, with 81,999 Bhaderwahi speaking people and varied Pahari-speaking populations in Doda, Thathri, and Ramban Banihal, provide an alternative perspective on linguistic diversity. Resolving discrepancies between such surveys is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the linguistic landscape and ensuring that policies and initiatives align with the actual demographics of Pahari-speaking communities in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Pahari Core Committee erstwhile Doda has articulated several demands for the comprehensive development and preservation of these mother tongues. The society has encompassed the need for amendments in J&K Reservation Rules, securing 4 percent reservation in recruitment, facilitating free admission in academic and professional colleges, providing scholarships for students, constructing hostels, implementing a Sub-Plan, promoting language, literature, and culture, creating separate sections for specific Pahari dialects in cultural institutions, and publishing textbooks for Bhaderwahi, Sarazi, Bhalesi, Padri, and Pogli. Addressing these demands is imperative to ensure the holistic empowerment and safeguarding of the unique linguistic and cultural identity of the Pahari communities in Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban.
The indigenous language movement and the Pahari and Allied language movement have played pivotal roles in drawing attention to the challenges of linguistic revitalization. Strategies for preserving these languages have become subjects of interest for the scientific community and linguists alike. The political dimensions surrounding linguistic change and preservation further underscore the importance of these efforts. The ongoing commitment to revitalization efforts reflects not only a linguistic concern but also a broader cultural and societal imperative. As linguists dedicate their efforts to rescuing endangered languages, the collective endeavor contributes to the broader discourse on the significance of linguistic diversity and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Sadaket Malik can be reached at ignou1264@gmail.com