Srinagar, Dec 11: The Bhartiya Basha Utsav, a grand celebration of India’s rich and diverse linguistic heritage was held with great enthusiasm at the IGNOU Regional Centre in Srinagar on Wednesday.
A statement issued here said that the event commemorated the birth anniversary of the esteemed Tamil poet, writer, journalist and freedom fighter, Subramania Bharati, popularly known as Mahakavi Bharathi. The occasion aimed to promote linguistic harmony, highlight the importance of regional languages, and celebrate India’s cultural and linguistic diversity.
“The Bhartiya Basha Utsav provided an excellent platform for promoting national unity through language while also emphasizing the significance of preserving India’s vast linguistic and cultural heritage. The event brought together a diverse group of students, staff members, dignitaries and cultural activists who celebrated the day through insightful presentations, talks, and interactive discussions,” the statement said.
The central theme of the event was to create awareness about India’s linguistic diversity and the need for preserving regional languages such as Hindi, Kashmiri, Urdu, Dogri, Punjabi, and others.
“The celebration echoed the vision of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat” by fostering a sense of unity among people from different linguistic backgrounds. The event highlighted the importance of language in shaping identity, culture, and national integrity in independent India,” the statement said.
The event kicked off with a brief inaugural session, where Regional Director Dr. A.H. Rizvi, along with other distinguished guests, addressed the audience. “Their speeches focused on the pivotal role language plays in uniting people and forming the cultural backbone of India. Dr. Rizvi emphasized that language is not only a tool for communication but also a vehicle for cultural expression and a symbol of national integration,” the statement said.
Prominent speakers and experts, including professors from the University of Kashmir, Central University of Kashmir, Government Degree Colleges, and social activists, shared their thoughts on preserving regional languages in the digital age. They discussed the role of educational institutions in promoting linguistic diversity and how languages like Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi, Dogri, Gojri, Punjabi, Malayalam, and others are being preserved and promoted. The speakers also explored the challenges and opportunities in keeping these languages alive through modern technology and media. A key highlight of the event was the participation of the chief guest, Prof. Chinnappan Baskar from the Central University of Kashmir, who is originally from Tamil Nadu. Prof. Baskar discussed the importance of fostering a multicultural society in India, emphasizing how linguistic diversity is a cornerstone of India’s social fabric. He also recited poetry in Tamil, showcasing the beauty of regional languages.
