Classical language

Classical language

Context:

Recently, the Union cabinet approved classical language status for five languages: Marathi, Bengali, Pali, Prakrit and Assamese.

 

Relevance:

GS-01 (Culture)

 

Classical languages of India:

  • The status of Indian classical language or Shāstrīya Bhāshā– is an umbrella term used for the languages that has high antiquity(recorded history over a period of 1500- 2000 years) and has valuable, original and distinct literary heritage.
  • Initially, there were only 11 languages as the Classical languages of India.
  • The criteria for the recognition of classical languages was established by a Linguistic Experts Committee and is under the Ministry of Culture.
  • Other Recognised Classical Languages: Tamil ( 2004), Sanskrit (2005), Telugu( 2008), Kannada (2008), Malayalam( 2013) and Odia (2014).

Significance:

  • The government promotes the study and preservation of such languages.
  • For instance, two International awards are given annually to scholars who have made significant contributions to the research, teaching or promotion of that particular language.