Ministry of Culture
Classical Language Status Granted to the Marathi
Posted On: 04 OCT 2024 5:27PM
Introduction
Marathi, an Indo-Aryan language widely spoken in the Indian state of Maharashtra, has a rich literary tradition that dates back over a thousand years. As a vital medium of cultural expression and communication, Marathi reflects its people's unique traditions and values through its diverse literary heritage, encompassing poetry, prose, and folklore. The Government of India recently conferred Classical Language status on Marathi, marking a significant milestone in the language's journey. This recognition not only honours the extensive literary contributions of Marathi but also highlights its historical and cultural importance.
Antiquity and Early Development of Marathi
The Marathi language has a long and rich history, evolving over centuries and standing as one of the major languages in India today. It traces its roots back more than 2500 years, originating from languages such as Prachina Maharatthi, Marahatthi, Maharastri Prakrta, and Apabhramsa Marathi. The language has undergone significant changes but has maintained its continuity through various historical phases.
Modern Marathi evolved from ancient languages spoken in the region, starting with Maharastri Prakrta, a dialect of the Prakrit languages spoken during the Satavahana era (2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE). The Marathi language's first known inscription dates back to around 2200 years ago, found in the Naneghata inscription, where the term "Maharathino" was used. This inscription, written in the Brahmi script, proves that the language must have existed at least a few centuries before.
The transition from Maharashtra Prakrta to Marathi was marked by gradual changes in pronunciation and grammar, with names like Maharatthi and Marahathi indicating linguistic shifts.
Evolution of Marathi Literature
The earliest known literary work in Marathi, Gathasaptasati, is approximately 2000 years old and showcases the superior quality of early Marathi poetry. It is a collection of poetry attributed to the Satavahana King Hala, believed to have been compiled in the 1st century CE. Following this, Lilacharitra and Jnanesvari emerged after Marathi reached a mature linguistic stage about eight centuries ago. These works suggest that Marathi had already developed into a rich and expressive language long before these texts were composed.
The Role of Stone Inscriptions and Other Historical Texts
Numerous stone inscriptions, copper plates, manuscripts, and old religious texts (pothis) prove Marathi's deep historical roots. The Naneghata inscription is a key artifact that demonstrates the use of Marathi at least 2500 years ago. Other important references to Marathi can be found in ancient Indian literature like the Vinayapitaka, Dipavamsa, and Mahavamsa, as well as in works by prominent authors like Kalidasa and Vararuci.
Scholarly Contributions to the Study of Marathi
Over the centuries, scholars like Rajaramshastri Bhagwat, S.V. Ketkar, Mahapandit Rahul Sankrityayan, and Dr. R.G. Bhandarkar have traced the evolution of Marathi from its origins in Maharastri Prakrta. They, along with others such as V.K. Rajwade and Anne Feldhaus, have emphasized that Marathi, Maharastri, and Apabhramsa Marathi are not distinct languages but rather different stages of the same linguistic tradition. The Maharastri language was widespread across several ancient regions, including Asmaka, Kuntala, and Vidarbha, and evolved into modern Marathi over centuries.
Marathi, with 110 million native speakers, ranks among the top 15 most spoken languages globally. The language has a long tradition of literary excellence, producing thousands of books and publications each year. Marathi’s literary heritage includes works by saints like Sant Dnyaneshwar, Namdev, Tukaram, and many others, whose contributions remain widely revered.
Classical Status and Global Reach
In recognition of its rich and ancient literary tradition, the Government of India granted Marathi the status of a Classical Language. The evidence of its high antiquity and continuous literary output over millennia makes Marathi a strong candidate for this status. With this recognition, efforts can be made to enhance Marathi education, encourage research into its rich literary traditions, and ensure that the language continues to thrive in contemporary society. The classical status thus plays a crucial role in safeguarding and revitalising Marathi, ensuring that its legacy endures for future generations.
References
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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Kataria/ Kamna Lakaria
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