Classical Languages of India Notes for UPSC: List & Criteria for Declaration

India, with its rich cultural heritage and diverse linguistic landscape, is home to a variety of languages. Among these, a few hold special status as classical languages of India. One of the important and interesting questions is how many classical languages are there in India? Earlier, there were six Classical Languages of India. They were Tamil, Sanskrit, Odia, Telugu, Kannada and Malayalam. However, the Cabinet has recently approved inclusion of five more Indian languages i.e Marathi, Prakrit, Pali, Bengali and Assamese into the list. This increases the total number of classical languages in India from six to eleven.

In this article, we will study about all classical languages in India. We will also learn the benefits accorded to classical languages of India, their historical origins, as well as the criteria used to categorize them. 

The Classical language is an important topic of Art and Culture, the History section of GS Paper 1 of prelims and GS Paper 1 of Mains in the UPSC examination. So let's start with understanding about different classical languages in India.

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What is Classical Language?

A Classical Language is a language that has a rich and ancient literary tradition, distinct from its modern form, and has made significant contributions to the cultural and intellectual heritage of a nation. In India, a language is given classical status based on specific criteria such as antiquity of its early texts or recorded history over 1500–2000 years, a body of ancient literature considered a valuable heritage by generations, and its original literary tradition not borrowed from another speech community. 

Key Facts on Classical Languages of India for UPSC
Feature	Details
Number of Languages	Eleven
First Language	Tamil (2004)
Latest Languages	Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali (2024)
Key Criteria	High antiquity (1500-2000 yrs), rich ancient literature (original, valuable heritage), distinct from modern forms.
Nodal Ministry	Ministry of Culture
Significance	Preserving heritage, promoting research, fostering linguistic pride, potential for academic centers and awards.
List of Languages	Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Odia, Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali.

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In India, there are many languages spoken. But only a few are classified as classical languages. India's heritage has been greatly influenced by languages that hold enormous cultural significance and historical value. The following table gives us the list of classical languages in India, along with a brief description of each of them.

The criteria for declaring a language as classical in India are based on antiquity, rich literary tradition, historical influence, linguistic distinctiveness, and active cultural practice. This recognition aims to honor and preserve the invaluable linguistic and cultural heritage of a language. By identifying and elevating these classical languages, India pays homage to its diverse linguistic tapestry and strengthens its cultural fabric for generations to come. 

The Government of India has established specific criteria to identify and acknowledge classical languages, which are discussed below:

• One of the key criteria is the language's antiquity and a documented history spanning over a period of at least 1,500 to 2,000 years. 
• This extensive timeframe showcases the language's resilience and its enduring relevance in various historical periods.
• Another crucial criterion is the existence of a substantial body of ancient literature written in the language.
• This literature should be of exceptional quality and should encompass various genres, such as poetry, drama, philosophy, scientific treatises, religious texts, etc. 
• The language must have influenced other languages. It must make significant contributions to the development of other linguistic systems. 
• This criterion highlights the language's impact and its ability to shape the linguistic landscape of the region. 
• It recognizes the language's inherent value and its wider cultural and historical significance.
• The language should possess a well-defined and distinct grammar and linguistic structure. 
• This criterion ensures that the language has retained its originality and integrity, distinguishing it from other languages.
• The language should enjoy a strong and vibrant literary and cultural tradition that is actively practiced and celebrated by a significant number of people. 
• It should have a community of native speakers who have preserved the language's richness and continue to contribute to its growth and evolution. 
• This criterion emphasizes the living nature of the language and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society.

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Benefits Accorded to Classical Languages of India

Classical languages in India receive special recognition and benefits due to their historical, cultural, and linguistic significance. The government of India identifies certain languages as classical and provides them with specific privileges and support. Here are some of the advantages given to classical languages in India:

• Classical languages are seen as important repositories of ancient literature, scriptures, and cultural heritage. The government aims to safeguard and promote the rich cultural heritage associated with these languages by offering recognition and support.
• Official Language Status: Classical languages often receive official language status in states where they are predominantly spoken. This recognition ensures their use in government offices, educational institutions, and other official domains.
• The government provides financial assistance and grants to support the research, documentation, and promotion of classical languages. This funding aids in the publication of books, translation of ancient texts, organization of seminars and conferences, and other scholarly activities.
• Classical languages are included in the curriculum of educational institutions at the school and university levels. This inclusion ensures that students have the opportunity to study and learn these languages. This contributes to their preservation and continuity.
• Scholars and researchers who specialize in classical languages are eligible for a wide range of national fellowships and scholarships. These prestigious opportunities are designed to support their academic endeavors, encourage research initiatives, and facilitate the publication of scholarly works.
• Cultural festivals and events serve as joyous celebrations that honor the magnificence of classical languages, offering a glimpse into their literary and artistic heritage. These gatherings play a vital role in fostering awareness and captivating the curiosity of people, particularly the youth.
• Classical languages contribute to the promotion of tourism by attracting visitors interested in exploring the historical and cultural aspects associated with these languages. The government supports heritage tourism and encourages the preservation of ancient monuments, inscriptions, and sites related to classical languages.
• Being recognized as a classical language brings international prestige and visibility to the language and its associated literature. It opens up opportunities for collaborations with international scholars and institutions, fostering academic exchange and enhancing the global understanding of these languages.

Importance and Significance of Classical Languages of India

These classical languages have significant historical, literary, and cultural importance.

• Classical languages serve as a window to India's ancient past, preserving the cultural identity of different regions. They are the repositories of ancient texts, literature, and scriptures that provide insights into the country's historical, social, and religious traditions. By preserving classical languages, India ensures that its rich heritage continues to be accessible and understood by future generations.
• Recognizing and promoting classical languages encourages multilingualism in India. It fosters a sense of linguistic diversity and harmony among the people. Individuals proficient in classical languages can appreciate and connect with the cultural nuances embedded within them. Multilingualism not only enhances communication but also strengthens social bonds and promotes national unity.
• Studying classical languages offers numerous academic and intellectual benefits. These languages provide a foundation for understanding various disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, and linguistics. Students who learn classical languages gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances of language, literature, and the evolution of human thought. 
• This knowledge contributes to their overall intellectual growth and fosters critical thinking skills.
• Classical languages play a crucial role in preserving and disseminating ancient knowledge. The vast collection of texts and scriptures written in classical languages contains invaluable wisdom, scientific insights, and philosophical ideas. By studying and deciphering these texts, scholars and researchers can unlock ancient wisdom and make significant contributions to various fields such as medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and spirituality.
• Classical languages are synonymous with artistic and literary excellence. They have been the medium through which great literary works, poetry, and epics have been created. By promoting classical languages, India encourages the growth and appreciation of its literary traditions. It provides a platform for artists, writers, and poets to express themselves and contribute to Indian literature.
• Classical languages act as bridges between different cultures and foster a deeper understanding of India's diverse heritage. They facilitate cultural exchange, as scholars and enthusiasts from around the world are drawn to study and explore these languages. By nurturing classical languages, India becomes a hub for global intellectual exchange, promoting dialogue, and fostering mutual respect among cultures.

Conclusion

Classical languages are unique not only because of their age but also because of their impact on various elements of Indian culture. Their impact on literature, philosophy, religion, art, and science has been significant and has left an imprint on the cultural environment of the country. Ancient texts, scriptures, and literary works have been preserved and propagated via these languages. This has helped connect the present generation to their roots.

The recognition of these languages as Classical Languages is not merely honorary; it bestows upon them a special status and support for their preservation and promotion. It acknowledges their contribution to the historical and cultural legacy of India. The Classical Language status also provides the impetus for research, academic pursuits, and the development of linguistic resources related to these languages.

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