In a major initiative to preserve Indian languages and culture while strengthening the foundation for students’ bright futures, the Uttar Pradesh government held ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav-2024’ across the state from December 4 to 11.

The week-long festival, which concluded on Wednesday, aimed to foster a deeper connection between children and the richness of Indian languages, celebrating the nation’s vibrant cultural heritage.

Centred around the theme ‘Unity Through Languages’, the event served as a platform to inspire children with the message of national unity while instilling a deep appreciation for mother tongues and regional languages.

Reflecting the soul of India and its linguistic diversity, this theme aimed to cultivate qualities such as linguistic skills, cultural awareness, and self-confidence among children.

Notably, the event provided an opportunity to connect with India’s unique linguistic heritage and strengthen the bond of national unity. This festival marks a significant step in sowing the seeds of linguistic and cultural richness among the younger generation.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasises the promotion of multilingual education. This policy focuses on making mother tongues and regional languages the medium of instruction, aiming to develop linguistic skills in students and encourage the benefits of multilingualism.

The week-long event highlighted the importance and diversity of Indian languages, hosting an array of activities, workshops, and programmes to engage students meaningfully. On the first day, students explored the theme ‘Harmony Between Language and Nature’.

They created a ‘language tree’ by writing words in various Indian languages, reciting poems related to nature and the environment, and discussing their observations during nature walks in their mother tongues.

The second day focused on ‘Integration of Language and Technology: Power of Words in the Digital Era’, with events designed to showcase the synergy between technology and linguistic expression.

Additionally, workshops and programmes such as ‘Bhasha aur Sahitya Sammelan’, ‘Language Fair’, ‘Excellence in Expression’, ‘Language and Community’, and ‘Bhasha, Sanskriti, aur Ham: A Regional Celebration’ were organised.

The initiative aims to immerse students in the linguistic richness of India, enhance their expressive abilities, and foster a profound appreciation for Indian languages and cultural heritage.
Minister of State for Basic Education Sandeep Singh said, “India is known for its linguistic diversity and cultural richness. The aim of the ‘Bharatiya Bhasha Utsav 2024’ is to preserve this heritage and help children understand the importance of national unity and cultural diversity. This event has successfully nurtured linguistic appreciation and cultural values among children.”