Maharashtra Declares October 3 as 'Classical Marathi Language Day'

Mumbai, Jul 4 (PTI) — The Maharashtra government has declared October 3 as 'Classical Marathi Language Day' in line with the Centre's recognition of Marathi as a classical language last year. Additionally, the period from October 3 to 9 will be observed as 'Classical Marathi Language Week' annually.

A government resolution from the Marathi Language Department, released on Thursday, highlights this initiative's objective to enhance awareness, promote preservation, and foster scholarly engagement with the rich linguistic and literary heritage of Marathi, which boasts a history spanning over 2,500 years.

This annual celebration originates from a Union Cabinet decision made on October 3, 2024, formally bestowing the status of a classical language on Marathi. The GR mandates that all government and semi-government entities, including public sector undertakings, educational institutions, private enterprises, and financial bodies, host events aimed at popularizing and preserving Marathi during the designated week.

These events are set to feature lectures, seminars, exhibitions of ancient texts, quizzes, essay competitions, and other academic and cultural activities centered around classical Marathi. "Exhibitions of rare manuscripts and ancient copperplate inscriptions will help students and the general public connect with the classical tradition of Marathi," the GR stated.

Recommendations also include digitization of ancient works, translating classical texts into modern Marathi, and showcasing documentaries on preservation techniques. District collectors will lead Marathi Language Committees, planning and executing events, with an obligation to report activities to the Directorate of Languages by October 31.

The financial requirements for these celebrations are to be covered by regular budgetary allocations from the respective departments and offices. Notably, last year, the Centre approved classical language status not only for Marathi but also for Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali.

According to the announcement, this designation will lead to significant employment opportunities, especially in academic and research fields, while spurring job creation in archiving, translation, publishing, and digital media through efforts like preservation, documentation, and digitization.

After a language is officially recognized as classical, the Union Education Ministry extends certain promotional benefits, including two major annual international awards for eminent scholars in these languages.

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