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Renowned writer, critic, and literary historian Rakhshanda Jalil has powerfully emphasized that Urdu is as Indian as any other language can be. Breaking stereotypes and political narratives that often question Urdu’s origins, Jalil reminds us that the language was born, nurtured, and flourished on Indian soil.
Urdu, she points out, has been an essential part of India’s poetry, music, cinema, and literature, making it inseparable from the nation’s cultural identity. From Mir Taqi Mir to Faiz Ahmad Faiz, from Bollywood dialogues to ghazals that echo across generations, Urdu’s presence is both historical and contemporary.
“Urdu is not foreign to India. It is embedded in the soil, culture, and ethos of the country. It is Indian in every sense of the word,” Jalil asserts.
Urdu’s Contribution to Indian Heritage
Literature: Urdu poetry and prose have shaped Indian literary tradition.
Cinema: Iconic Bollywood dialogues and lyrics are deeply rooted in Urdu.
Music: Ghazals and qawwalis carry the fragrance of Urdu’s lyrical richness.
Everyday Speech: Common Indian expressions owe much to Urdu’s vocabulary.
Why This Statement Matters Today
In an era where languages are often politicized, Rakhshanda Jalil’s assertion reaffirms that languages cannot be owned by a single community. Urdu belongs to every Indian who reads, writes, speaks, or enjoys it.
Her words also underline a broader cultural truth: India’s identity lies in its diversity, and Urdu is a shining example of how languages enrich and unify rather than divide.
FAQ Section
Q1. Why does Rakhshanda Jalil say Urdu is Indian?
Urdu originated and evolved in India, influenced by Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and local dialects. Its roots are deeply embedded in Indian history, making it an inseparable part of Indian culture.
Q2. Is Urdu a foreign language in India?
No. Urdu is not foreign. It developed in India and has been widely spoken and written across the subcontinent for centuries
.
Q3. How has Urdu contributed to Indian culture?
Urdu has enriched Indian literature, poetry, cinema, and music. Many Bollywood songs, dialogues, and ghazals are written in Urdu, showcasing its lasting influence.
Q4. Who is Rakhshanda Jalil?
Rakhshanda Jalil is a prominent Indian writer, critic, and literary historian who has authored and translated several works highlighting the importance of Urdu and its cultural relevance.
Q5. What message does this statement carry for modern India?
It emphasizes that languages should not be politicized. Urdu, like Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, or Marathi, is part of India’s identity and belongs to every Indian.
Published on : 2nd September
Published by : aswini
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