The article begins by posing a critical question: why, despite possessing national symbols like a flag, emblem, animal, and bird, does India lack a national language? The author argues that the issue is one of political will, suggesting that if significant decisions like the abrogation of Article 370 or the resolution of the Babri Masjid dispute could be achieved quickly, then so too could the elevation of Hindi to national language status. The author expresses a belief that the current government has the potential to address this longstanding concern.
It’s emphasized that Hindi is much more than a language; it is a symbol of the nation’s identity, pride, and cultural unity. The author probes the necessity of a dedicated Hindi Diwas when the language is so deeply ingrained in everyday life, suggesting it’s a continuous flow, present in thought and expression. Hindi, representing identity and the soul of the nation, is unfairly burdened by governmental procedures, according to the author.
### The Israeli Model: A Lesson in Language Revival
The article cites the example of Israel, where Hebrew, once a near-extinct language, was rapidly transformed into the official language. Following Israel’s establishment in 1948, Prime Minister David Ben-Gurion, a strong advocate for Jewish nationalism, made Hebrew the official language. The article highlights the political will and determination that facilitated this linguistic transformation, serving as an inspiration for India.
### The Munshi-Ayyangar Formula: A Compromise That Fell Short
The article describes the Munshi-Ayyangar formula, presented in 1949 during the drafting of India’s constitution to resolve disputes about language. This formula designated Hindi as the official language and Nagari as its script while acknowledging the continued use of English in specific governmental functions. Despite this compromise, the author points out that Hindi has yet to be officially recognized as the national language.
### The Persistent Absence: Hindi’s Unfulfilled Status
The piece examines the lingering discontent surrounding Hindi’s incomplete status after 78 years. The author contends that the language has been constrained to a position of official, rather than national, importance. Reference is made to prominent literary figures who viewed Hindi’s advancement as essential for India’s progress and identity. The article concludes with a call to embrace Hindi as a source of national pride.
### Hindi’s Broad Reach in India
The article underscores the widespread prevalence of Hindi across India, irrespective of geographical and cultural diversity. Hindi acts as a significant medium of communication. Hindi speakers are found throughout the country, from the northern to southern regions. Hindi has always assimilated influences from other languages. Hindi’s strength lies in its inclusivity and its ability to reflect India’s diverse nature.
### Journalism, Politics, and Hindi’s Future
The author stresses the crucial role played by newspapers in promoting Hindi and expanding its vocabulary. The writer emphasizes the need for political determination for Hindi to achieve its proper status. Hindi should be acknowledged and valued to enhance national self-respect. The article emphasizes the need for the nation’s diverse nature by emphasizing the importance of recognizing Hindi as an integral part of national identity.
