International Mother Language Day

International Mother Language Day is a significant worldwide observance dedicated to promoting linguistic and cultural diversity, and multilingualism. The premise of the celebration is rooted in the belief that languages are essential in preserving and developing cultural heritage. UN body, UNESCO, declared the day in 1999 to encourage the use and respect of mother languages worldwide, and to acknowledge the linguistic rights of people who speak minority and indigenous languages. The day also honours the important role language plays in education, social integration, and development.

The introduction of International Mother Language Day holds special relevance to India, a country where more than 2,000 distinct dialects are spoken across 28 states and 9 union territories. The day's history is connected to the Bengali Language Movement in East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, a region that shares cultural and linguistic ties with the Indian state of West Bengal. The movement in 1952 protested against the imposition of Urdu as the only national language, leading to violent conflicts. Today, Indians utilise International Mother Language Day to raise awareness of the nation's linguistic diversity and highlight the significance of multilingualism in India's social, economic, and political life.

In India, International Mother Language Day is observed in various ways. Educational institutes often organise cultural programmes, language festivals, and competitions to celebrate the nation's linguistic kaleidoscope. Commemorative events are hosted, especially in regions like West Bengal, Tripura, and Assam, where Bengali is the predominant language. Cities with a vibrant multicultural lifestyle, like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, run campaigns promoting multilingualism and cultural inclusivity. International Mother Language Day occurs annually on February 21, a date chosen to commemorate the valiant protesters' sacrifice during the Bengali Language Movement in 1952.