New Classical Languages in India
- Total Classical Languages (till 2024): 11
- Earlier recognized (6): Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Odia
- Newly recognized (5 in 2024): Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali
Significance of Classical Language Status
- Custodians of India’s ancient cultural legacy.
- Preserve rich history, literature, traditions of respective communities.
- Status conferred to honor and protect linguistic milestones.
- Ensures future generations can access and appreciate historical roots.
Criteria for Declaring a Classical Language
2004 (Initial Criteria)
- High antiquity of early texts/recorded history over 1000 years.
- A body of ancient literature/texts valued as heritage.
- Original literary tradition (not borrowed).
2005 Revision
- High antiquity of early texts/recorded history over 1500–2000 years.
- Ancient literature/texts considered valuable heritage.
- Original literary tradition (not borrowed).
- Distinction from modern forms (possible discontinuity with later forms/offshoots).
👉 Sanskrit declared Classical (2005).
2024 Revision
- High antiquity of early texts/recorded history over 1500–2000 years.
- Ancient literature/texts considered heritage.
- Inclusion of knowledge texts, prose, epigraphical & inscriptional evidence (not just poetry).
- Classical language & literature may be distinct or discontinuous from modern forms/offshoots.
- Recommended for recognition: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, Bengali.
👉 Approved on October 03, 2024 by Union Cabinet (PM Narendra Modi).
Timeline of Recognition
| Language | Date of Recognition | Ministry/Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil | October 12, 2004 | Ministry of Home Affairs – Oct 12, 2004 |
| Sanskrit | November 25, 2005 | Ministry of Home Affairs – Nov 25, 2005 |
| Telugu | October 31, 2008 | Ministry of Culture – Oct 31, 2008 |
| Kannada | October 31, 2008 | Ministry of Culture – Oct 31, 2008 |
| Malayalam | August 8, 2013 | Ministry of Culture – Aug 8, 2013 |
| Odia | March 1, 2014 | Ministry of Culture – Mar 1, 2014 |
| Marathi | October 3, 2024 | Union Cabinet – Oct 3, 2024 |
| Pali | October 3, 2024 | Union Cabinet – Oct 3, 2024 |
| Prakrit | October 3, 2024 | Union Cabinet – Oct 3, 2024 |
| Assamese | October 3, 2024 | Union Cabinet – Oct 3, 2024 |
| Bengali | October 3, 2024 | Union Cabinet – Oct 3, 2024 |
