Published on 12 Oct 2025
In 2004, the Indian government decided to create a new category of languages known as "classical languages." There are now six 'Classical' languages and all of them are included in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
Criteria for Declaring a Language as Classical Language
High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500-2000 years;
A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generations of speakers;
The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community;
The classical language and literature being distinct from modern, there may also be a discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or its offshoots.
Benefits Associated with Classical Languages in India
International Recognition: Two major annual international awards are given to scholars of eminence in classical Indian languages.
Example: A certificate of honour and Maharishi Badrayan Vyas Samman.
Preservation of Heritage: It acknowledges the language's contribution to literature, arts, philosophy, and other aspects of human knowledge and creativity.
Example: Sanskrit texts like Vedas, Upanishads, and Mahabharata have a profound influence on literature, philosophy, and religious traditions.
Academic and Scholarly Study: It fosters research, analysis, and documentation of the language's grammar, vocabulary, literature, and linguistic features.
Cultural Identity and Pride: Classifying a language as classical boosts the cultural identity and pride of the community associated with the language.
Example: Thiruvalluvar’s Thirukkural depicts the cultural identity of Tamil-speaking communities.
Language Revitalization: When a language is classified as classical, it inspires efforts to revive and protect it, including language revitalization programs, establishment of institutes, and integration into educational curricula.
Example: Central Institute of Classical Tamil (CICT), Chennai.
Promotion of Language and Literature: Classifying a language as classical promotes its literature and heritage, inspiring new generations of writers and scholars.
Example: Ramacharitam by Kunchan Nambiar has played a major role in shaping the Malayalam literary tradition.
The classification of these Indian languages as classical languages acknowledges their rich literary and cultural heritage, fosters academic study and research, promotes cultural preservation, and reinforces the cultural identity and pride of the communities associated with these languages.
History & Culture
CLASSICAL LANGUAGES
Eighth Schedule of the Constitution
Criteria for Declaring a Language as Classical Language
High antiquity
ancient literature
being distinct from modern
Maharishi Badrayan Vyas Samman
Vedas
Upanishads
Mahabharata
Thiruvalluvar Thirukkural
Central Institute of Classical Tamil
regional languages
General Studies Paper 1
Indian Heritage and Culture
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