Prof. Boota Singh Brar Delivered Lecture on Shared Linguistic Roots of Punjabi and Hindi languages
Punjab Newsline, Bathinda-
The Central University of Punjab, Bathinda organized a special programme to commemorate International Mother Language Day under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Raghavendra Prasad Tiwari. The programme was jointly organized by the Department of Punjabi and the Matribhasha Utsav Committee with active participation from students of various departments.
During the first session, eminent linguist and former Head of the Punjabi University Regional Centre, Bathinda, Prof. Boota Singh Brar, delivered a keynote lecture highlighting the shared linguistic roots of Punjabi and Hindi languages. Highlighting the importance of language, he stated that language serves as a vital medium connecting individual to social life. Drawing upon various research sources, he outlined the developmental trajectory of Indian languages and explained their similarities as well as distinctions.
Referring to literary works from the 11th–12th centuries, he noted that early linguistic elements of both Punjabi and Hindi can be observed in texts from that period. Emphasizing the importance of dialects, he explained that standardized languages evolve from refined forms of dialects, making the existence of sub-dialects and regional speech forms fundamentally important. He also stressed the need to preserve linguistic diversity in contemporary times and stated that the celebration of Mother Language Day becomes meaningful when the philosophy of “unity in diversity” is embraced.
During the second session, students from different states of India studying at CU Punjab presented poems, songs, and speeches in their respective mother tongues, showcasing the rich linguistic diversity of the country. Several students recited poetry and performed songs, while others shared thoughts and narrated folk anecdotes in their native languages, reflecting the cultural essence of their regions.
A Mother Language Signature Campaign was also organized on this occasion, during which students, faculty members, and staff signed a common banner in their respective languages.
The programme highlighted the spirit of linguistic coexistence, cultural richness, and the message of unity in diversity.