13 September,2024 02:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image. Pic/iStock
Hindi Diwas is celebrated annually on September 14 to commemorate the adoption of Hindi as one of the official languages of India by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. This day holds immense significance as it highlights the importance of Hindi in the cultural and linguistic diversity of India. Hindi Diwas 2024 will once again be an occasion to celebrate the beauty and richness of the language, fostering unity in diversity.
The roots of Hindi Diwas trace back to September 14, 1949, when the Constituent Assembly of India adopted Hindi, written in the Devanagari script, as the official language of the Republic of India. Hindi was chosen because it was spoken by a large population across different regions of the country, representing linguistic and cultural integration.
Hindi Diwas is also a tribute to the efforts of several freedom fighters, linguists, and scholars who advocated for the promotion of the language. Among them, Beohar Rajendra Simha, Mahatma Gandhi, and Kaka Kalelkar played a significant role in the upliftment and spread of Hindi.
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Hindi is the fourth most spoken language in the world, after English, Mandarin, and Spanish. It has its origins in Sanskrit and has absorbed influences from various languages over centuries, including Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and Portuguese. As a result, it is rich in vocabulary and expression, making it versatile and adaptable.
In India, Hindi serves as a link language in many states, allowing communication between people who speak different regional languages. While the constitution recognises both Hindi and English as official languages of the Union Government, Hindi enjoys a special place in the cultural fabric of the nation.
On Hindi Diwas, various activities are organised across schools, colleges, and government institutions to promote the language. These include:
Essay competitions, debates, and poetry recitals in Hindi.
Workshops and seminars on the historical evolution of the language.
Awards and recognition for individuals and organizations promoting Hindi literature and culture.
Cultural programs such as plays, dance performances, and music recitals showcase the rich heritage of Hindi.
The Rajbhasha Awards are presented on this day to government departments and ministries for their efforts in using Hindi in official communications.
In today's digital era, Hindi continues to thrive and evolve. With the rise of social media platforms and regional language content, Hindi has found its place in online spaces and digital media. The film industry, especially Bollywood, has also played a vital role in popularising Hindi globally.
While English is often considered the language of business and education in India, Hindi remains the language of the masses. The government's push to promote Hindi, especially in official correspondence and government offices, is an effort to bridge the linguistic gap between rural and urban India.
Despite its widespread use, the promotion of Hindi has not been without challenges. India is a land of diverse languages, and many southern states, particularly Tamil Nadu, have resisted the imposition of Hindi, advocating for the preservation of their native languages. This linguistic divide has sparked debates about the role of Hindi in a multilingual nation.
The Indian constitution also recognizes 21 other languages under the Eighth Schedule, underscoring the importance of linguistic diversity in the country. Hindi Diwas, therefore, is not about imposing one language but about celebrating the linguistic heritage of India, where every language is respected and valued.
Hindi Diwas is a celebration of India's cultural identity and linguistic diversity. As we commemorate Hindi Diwas 2024, it is essential to recognise the role of Hindi in uniting people from different backgrounds while embracing the multilingual richness of India. It's a day to appreciate the beauty of Hindi, its literature, and its contribution to the country's socio-cultural landscape.
Let Hindi Diwas 2024 be an occasion to promote not only the language but also the values of inclusivity, diversity, and unity that Hindi represents.
