This refers to the article, “language of culture, not terror” (February 5) by Navin Suri. The author is absolutely right when he says that Urdu is one of the most influential languages of the country and it should not be viewed as the medium of any particular religious community. Urdu is one of the most sought after languages for expressing basic emotions and feelings, and no wonder it is used in ample measure in Hindi films to convey expressions of love and respect. The Hindustani language used in the northern part of India is not complete without Urdu words.
Though many of us may not be able to read or write Urdu and many of its words may escape us, Urdu is still liked and enjoyed by people for the sheer pleasure of listening to the language being spoken. This can be witnessed in mushaira or qawaali programmes, where the audience belongs to all communities.