On This Day: September 14, 1949 ( Hindi Diwas )– India Adopts Hindi as an Official Language
Why September 14 Is Celebrated as Hindi Diwas: When India Adopts Hindi as an Official Language
One of India’s most pivotal moments took place on September 14, 1949. It was on this day that the Constituent Assembly of India accepted the use of Hindi written in the Devanagari script as one of the official languages of the country. It is on this day every year that we celebrate Hindi Diwas.
Why Hindi Was Chosen
After winning the freedom struggle, one of the major obstacles that India had to deal with was uniting people who had different languages and cultures. The leaders needed to find a language which could connect people from different parts of the country. Hindi was the most popular language of the country so, it was given the status of an official language. Simultaneously, English was retained as an official associate language to facilitate the functioning of the country. This attempt was a reflection of India’s motto ’Unity in Diversity’.
The Beginning of Hindi Diwas
In 1953, the government decided to set aside September 14 and celebrate the day as Hindi Diwas, in an attempt to encourage the use of Hindi which is a major part of the country’s identity. From that time, it was the practice of many schools, colleges, and government institutions all around India to celebrate the day with activities such as debates and cultural programs.
The Role of Hindi Today
Vivacious in use across the globe, Hindi is the official language of administration, cinema, Bollywood, communication, and is the mother tongue of millions. It’s also the linguistic foundation of Bollywood and the media and serves as the principal. One of the important works of the Constitution is recognition of 22 official languages. However, the multitude of regional languages is of tremendous value in and of itself.
A Day of Respect
Hindi Day is not merely a fleeting observance of the language itself; it is a day of appreciating the multitude of languages that are the hallmark of the nation. Hindi was adopted in 1949. The act itself was symbolic of an attempt of integration, but also serves as a reminder of the myriad languages that call for recognition and respect for the cultural heritage that exists in the country.
Closing Thought
Today, as a nation, it is important we recollect the order that awarded Hindi one of the official statuses. Hindi Diwas is a reminder of the pride we carry for being Indian, and continues to instil the fact that the real power of the country is in the multiple languages we speak.
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