Classical Languages in India: A Comprehensive Overview

India’s linguistic diversity is unmatched, and its recognition of classical languages highlights the nation’s rich cultural and literary traditions. As of January 2025, India recognizes 11 classical languages. These languages reflect the depth of India’s historical, cultural, and intellectual heritage. In this blog, detailed analysis has been presented.

Chronology of Classical Languages

India’s classical languages have been recognized based on specific criteria and the list is:

1. Tamil (2004): An ancient Dravidian language with a continuous literary tradition spanning over two millennia.
2. Sanskrit (2005): Often referred to as the mother of many Indian languages, Sanskrit has shaped India’s intellectual and cultural history.
3. Telugu (2008): A Dravidian language with a significant corpus of classical literature.
4. Kannada (2008): Known for its ancient epigraphy and literary richness.
5. Malayalam (2013): A Dravidian language with a unique literary and cultural tradition.
6. Odia (2014): An Eastern Indo-Aryan language with a history of rich literary output.
7. Marathi (2024): Evolved from Maharashtri Prakrit, flourishing during the Maratha Empire.
8. Bengali (2024): Celebrated for its contributions to literature and art.
9. Assamese (2024): A symbol of Northeast India’s cultural identity.
10. Pali (2024): A critical language in the Buddhist tradition.
11. Prakrit (2024): A collection of Middle Indo-Aryan vernaculars, essential in Jain and Buddhist texts.

Criteria for Classical Language Status

The Linguistic Experts Committee (LEC) under the Sahitya Akademi has outlined specific criteria for granting classical language status:

1. Historical Depth: Languages must possess early texts or a recorded history of 1500-2000 years.
2. Literary Heritage: They should have a substantial body of ancient literature or texts deemed valuable by successive generations.
3. Distinctiveness: The classical form must be distinguishable from its modern or evolved variants.
4. Epigraphy and Knowledge Texts: Evidence from inscriptions, prose, poetry, and other scholarly works.

These criteria ensure that languages with exceptional historical and cultural contributions are recognized and preserved.

Significance of Recognition

The recognition of classical languages is a celebration of India’s cultural wealth. It serves several purposes:

• Preservation of Cultural Heritage: Classical status ensures the survival of ancient knowledge systems, literature, and cultural values.
• Encouragement for Research: Scholars are incentivized to explore, analyze, and document the contributions of these languages.
• Creation of Employment: Opportunities arise in fields like archiving, translation, publishing, and digital media.
• Fostering National Pride: The acknowledgment instills a sense of identity and pride among the communities associated with these languages.

Benefits Provided to Classical Languages

To promote and preserve classical languages, the Indian government offers the following:

1. Annual international awards for scholars of classical languages.
2. Establishment of Centers of Excellence for studies in classical languages.
3. Professional Chairs in Classical Languages at Central Universities, supported by the University Grants Commission (UGC).
4. Funding for research, translations, and preservation of manuscripts and texts.

These measures underline the government’s commitment to safeguarding India’s linguistic heritage.

New Additions to the List

In October 2024, the Union Cabinet approved classical language status for five additional languages—Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit—bringing the total to 11. This decision reflects the evolving understanding of cultural preservation and inclusivity.

Features of Newly Recognized Classical Languages

1. Marathi
   
   • Origins: Rooted in Maharashtri Prakrit and Apabhramsha, Marathi emerged distinctly by the 13th century.
   • Literary Contribution: Prominent in the Bhakti movement, with poets like Dnyaneshwar and Tukaram.
   • Historical Importance: Widely used in administration during the Maratha Empire.
     
     
2. Bengali
   
   • Known for a rich literary tradition with roots in ancient texts.
   • Its contribution to art and culture has been profound, influencing literature beyond India’s borders.
     
     
3. Assamese
   
   • A language of antiquity with its own literary and cultural legacy.
   • Central to the cultural identity of Northeast India.
     
     
4. Pali
   
   • Closely related to Sanskrit and Prakrit, Pali is significant for Buddhist scriptures.
   • Played a vital role in spreading Buddhism across Southeast Asia.
     
     
5. Prakrit
   
   • A group of vernacular Middle Indo-Aryan languages used in ancient India.
   • Integral to Jain and some Buddhist texts, reflecting ancient philosophical and cultural ideas.

Challenges in Preserving Classical Languages

Despite recognition, the preservation of classical languages faces several hurdles:

1. Loss of Native Speakers: Languages like Pali and Prakrit lack active speakers today.
2. Digitalization Issues: The digitization of manuscripts and texts is slow and resource-intensive.
3. Educational Neglect: Classical languages are often not integrated into mainstream education systems.

Government Initiatives for Promotion

The Indian government has taken proactive measures to address these challenges:

1. Sanskrit Universities: Three Central Universities were established in 2020 to promote Sanskrit studies.
2. Central Institute of Classical Tamil: Created to facilitate the translation and research of Tamil literature.
3. Centers of Excellence: Established for Classical Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia under the Central Institute of Indian Languages in Mysuru.
4. Recognition through Awards: National and international awards celebrate scholars’ contributions to classical languages.
5. Educational Chairs: Professional Chairs in central universities focus on teaching and researching classical languages.

Future Prospects and Recommendations

For classical languages to thrive in the modern era, additional measures are necessary:

• Curricular Integration: Incorporate classical languages into school and college curricula, especially in regions historically associated with them.
• Digital Efforts: Accelerate the digitization of ancient texts to make them accessible to a broader audience.
• Cultural Programs: Organize festivals, exhibitions, and academic events to raise public awareness about these languages.
• International Collaboration: Partner with global universities and cultural institutions to promote research and recognition.

Spotlight: Rich Tapestry of Assamese Language History

The Assamese language boasts a fascinating history spanning over a millennium, weaving together diverse cultural influences and linguistic evolutions. 

Ancient Roots and Early Growth

Assamese, an Indo-Aryan language, traces its origins to the eastern group of Magadhan Prakrit. Its development began around the 7th century CE, shaped by various settlements and socio-religious influences in the Assam region. Scholars like Upendra Nath Goswami have divided Assamese history into three main eras:

• Old Assamese (7th-10th century CE)
• Middle Assamese (10th-16th century CE)
• Modern Assamese (16th century CE onwards)

Additional Notes on Assamese Literature

Assamese literature has a rich history, evolving through various stages of development. Its origins can be traced to ancient Assam, where an unwritten literary tradition flourished. Early inhabitants like Mon-Khmer and Tibeto-Burman speakers contributed folk tales and songs, including Bihu songs, ballads (e.g., Behula-Lakhindar), and Oja-pali. These oral traditions retained their essence despite changes in diction over time. Other elements of this folklore include riddles, proverbs, and incantations for sorcery and healing. H.C. Goswami highlights these traditions in Asomiya Sahityar Chaneki. The Dakar-Bachans are early wise sayings, dated back to around 800 A.D., addressing daily life topics like agriculture.

Ancient Assam also made notable contributions to Sanskrit literature. Kamrupa kings patronized Sanskrit scholarship, advancing fields like Sruti, Smriti, Nyaya, and Mimamsa. Key contributions include Hastyayurveda by Palakapya, detailing elephant treatment in 160 chapters. The name “Pragjyotisha” reflects the region’s prominence in astronomical studies, with notable works by scholars like Damodara Misra and Mathuranatha Vidyalamkara.

Sanskrit dramas like Mudrarakshasa by Visakhadatta and Ratnavali by Sriharsha are believed to have origins in Kamrupa. Classical texts like the Arthashastra, Ramacharita, and Rajatarangini reference Kamrupa’s cultural and political significance.

The Kalika Purana (7th century) is a major work glorifying the Sakta-Tantric cult, particularly at the Kamakhya temple, alongside references to Shiva and Vishnu. Other texts like Yogini Tantra provide insights into Assam’s ancient geography and culture. Buddhist literature, such as Kamrupa-Yatra, and Tibetan works like Pagsomzonzan, connect Assam with Buddhist traditions. The Haragauri-Tantra offers genealogical and geographical details, emphasizing Assam’s rich literary heritage and its integration with cultural and spiritual studies.

The recognition of classical languages is a profound acknowledgment of India’s linguistic and cultural richness. Each classical language carries the essence of a bygone era, offering insights into the philosophical, literary, and scientific achievements of ancient India. By preserving these languages, India not only honors its past but also bridges its cultural heritage with contemporary aspirations.

The addition of Marathi, Bengali, Assamese, Pali, and Prakrit in 2024 highlights India’s dedication to inclusive cultural preservation. As the world moves towards globalization, the challenge lies in ensuring that these linguistic treasures remain relevant and accessible. Sustained efforts in education, research, and public engagement will ensure that classical languages continue to enrich India’s cultural fabric and inspire future generations.

MCQ 

Q. Which of the following is/are true regarding the recognition of Classical Languages in India?

1. Tamil was recognized as a classical language in 2004, while Sanskrit was recognized in 2005.
2. Marathi and Bengali were both recognized as classical languages in 2024.
3. The criteria for classical language status include historical depth, literary heritage, distinctiveness from modern variants, and evidence from inscriptions and knowledge texts.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 2 and 3 only
• (c) 1 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct: Tamil was recognized in 2004, and Sanskrit in 2005.
Statement 2 is correct: Marathi and Bengali were both recognized as classical languages in 2024.
Statement 3 is correct: The criteria for classical language status involve historical depth, literary heritage, distinctiveness from modern variants, and evidence from inscriptions and knowledge texts.

Mains Question (15 Marks):

Q. Discuss the criteria for granting the status of ‘Classical Language’ in India. Analyze the significance of this recognition for the preservation and promotion of linguistic and cultural heritage in India.

(250 words)