While most people are familiar with Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, or Marathi, there are many lesser-known languages that thrive quietly across regions. These languages may not be as widely spoken or recognized, but they hold a rich cultural heritage and are an integral part of our diverse society.
India is a land of diversity, with over 122 major languages and 1599 other languages spoken by its people. Each language has its own unique history, literature, and cultural significance. While some languages like Hindi and Bengali have a large number of speakers, others like Bodo, Konkani, and Manipuri have a smaller but equally vibrant community.
One such lesser-known language is Bodo, spoken by the Bodo people of Assam. It is one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and has around 1.4 million speakers. The Bodo language has a rich oral tradition, with a vast collection of folk tales, songs, and proverbs. It also has a script of its own, called the Deodhai script, which is used to write the language. Despite facing challenges and struggles, the Bodo language has managed to thrive and preserve its unique identity.
Similarly, Konkani, spoken by the Konkani community of Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, is another lesser-known language that has managed to survive and flourish. It has over 7.5 million speakers and is recognized as the official language of Goa. Konkani has a rich literary tradition, with works dating back to the 16th century. It also has a unique script called the Devanagari script, which is used to write the language. The Konkani language has been able to maintain its cultural significance and has even spread to other parts of the world, with Konkani-speaking communities in countries like Portugal, United Arab Emirates, and even Australia.
The Manipuri language, spoken by the Manipuri people of Manipur, is another lesser-known language that deserves recognition. With over 1.5 million speakers, it is the official language of Manipur and is also recognized as a classical language by the Government of India. The Manipuri language has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of literature, music, and dance. It also has a unique script called the Meitei script, which is used to write the language. Despite facing challenges from other dominant languages, the Manipuri language has been able to thrive and maintain its distinct identity.
The list of lesser-known languages in India is endless, with each language having its own unique story and struggle. However, one thing that remains common among all these languages is their resilience and determination to survive and thrive. These languages may not have a large number of speakers, but they hold a significant place in our society and contribute to the rich cultural fabric of our country.
It is essential to recognize and celebrate these lesser-known languages as they play a crucial role in preserving our cultural diversity. They are not just a means of communication but also a reflection of our history, traditions, and values. These languages are an integral part of our identity and should be given the same importance and respect as any other language.
The government has taken several initiatives to promote and preserve these lesser-known languages. The establishment of the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL) in Mysore is one such initiative. The CIIL is a premier institute that conducts research, training, and documentation of Indian languages and has played a significant role in promoting and preserving these languages.
Furthermore, the government has also introduced various schemes and programs to provide financial assistance and support to these languages. The “Scheme for Protection and Preservation of Endangered Languages” (SPPEL) is one such scheme that aims to document, preserve and promote endangered languages. It has been able to provide a platform for these languages to thrive and gain recognition.
In conclusion, while Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and Marathi may be the most widely spoken languages in India, we must not forget the lesser-known languages that thrive quietly across regions. These languages are an essential part of our cultural heritage and deserve recognition and support. It is our responsibility to preserve and promote these languages for future generations, as they are a reflection of our diverse and vibrant society. Let us celebrate and embrace the linguistic diversity of our country and give these lesser-known languages the recognition they deserve.
