Language serves as the bedrock of a society’s identity, history, and heritage, reflecting the unique nuances and traditions that define a community. As such, safeguarding the mother tongue in Kashmir is not merely a matter of linguistic preservation; it is a crucial step towards maintaining the rich diversity of the region’s cultural fabric.
Kashmir, with its myriad of languages and dialects, represents a melting pot of linguistic diversity. However, in recent times, the dominance of certain mainstream languages has posed a threat to the survival of local languages spoken by smaller communities within the region. This trend not only erodes the linguistic diversity of Kashmir but also marginalizes those who identify strongly with their mother tongue.
Efforts to protect and promote the mother language in Kashmir are essential for several reasons. Firstly, language serves as a vehicle for transmitting cultural traditions, values, and knowledge from one generation to the next. By preserving the mother tongue, we ensure that future generations have access to the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir and can maintain a strong sense of identity and belonging.
Secondly, language plays a pivotal role in shaping individual and collective identities. The mother tongue is often closely tied to a sense of community and belonging, providing individuals with a shared cultural identity and a sense of pride in their heritage. By nurturing and preserving the mother language, we empower individuals to connect with their roots and celebrate the unique linguistic heritage of Kashmir.
Moreover, the preservation of the mother language is crucial for fostering inclusivity and social cohesion within the diverse communities of Kashmir. Embracing linguistic diversity not only enriches our cultural landscape but also promotes mutual understanding, respect, and harmony among different linguistic groups.
Many linguistic experts are of the opinion that the valley is witnessing lesser commitment of leaders towards preserving mother tongue, at higher levels in socio-political order, which is distressing. Besides leaders’ apathy, there are not enough avenues to help preserve and enrich our mother languages. Some academic circles have been pushing for their preservation, but overall literary work in Kashmiri is on decline compared to the contributions made in other languages
To protect the mother language in Kashmir, concerted efforts are needed at various levels. This includes promoting the teaching and learning of local languages in educational institutions, supporting cultural initiatives that celebrate linguistic diversity, and creating platforms for linguistic exchange and dialogue among different communities.
The role of mother tongue is very important in the development of a child’s social, personal, and cultural identity. It is the only medium of instruction that is spoken to a child until he starts to understand the world of different languages.
Safeguarding the mother language in Kashmir is not just a matter of linguistic preservation; it is a vital step towards upholding the valley’s cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion. By valuing and preserving the diverse languages that enrich our society, we can ensure that Kashmir remains a vibrant tapestry of cultures, traditions, and identities for generations to come.
(Author is a teacher and social activist)
