Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasised that Indian languages have never been at odds with each other but have instead enriched one another over time, countering attempts to create divisions based on linguistic differences.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasised that Indian languages have never been at odds with each other but have instead enriched one another over time, countering attempts to create divisions based on linguistic differences.(Image: DC)
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday emphasised that Indian languages have never been at odds with each other but have instead enriched one another over time, countering attempts to create divisions based on linguistic differences.
Speaking at the 98th Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya Sammelan at Vigyan Bhawan, Modi praised Marathi as a "complete language" that embodies bravery, beauty, sensitivity, and equality.
“There has never been any animosity among Indian languages. They have always influenced and enriched each other,” he said, adding that attempts to create linguistic rifts have always been met with resistance by India's shared linguistic heritage.
His remarks coincided with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s renewed criticism of the National Education Policy (NEP), which he claims is an attempt to impose a three-language formula across India.
Highlighting India's linguistic richness, Modi noted that the country is home to the largest linguistic diversity in the world, which serves as a key pillar of national unity.
“India is one of the oldest living civilisations because it has always evolved, welcomed new ideas, and embraced change,” he said.
The three-day Marathi literary convention, held in Delhi after 71 years, comes a year after Marathi was granted classical language status. It also coincides with the 350th anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji’s coronation and the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS).
Modi acknowledged Maharashtra’s contribution to the RSS’s foundation, calling it a banyan tree that has flourished over a century.
“For the last 100 years, the RSS has been running a ‘Sanskar Yagya’ to pass on India’s great traditions and culture to the next generation,” he said, adding that the Sangh inspired many, including himself, to dedicate their lives to the nation.
The inaugural function was attended by NCP-SP chief Sharad Pawar, Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, and renowned litterateur Tara Bhawalkar, among others.
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
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