نوآبادیات اور اُردو زبان: لسانی و فکری اثرات کا مطالعہ

Colonialism and the Urdu Language: A Study of Linguistic and Intellectual Impacts

Abstract

The colonial encounter in the Indian subcontinent left deep imprints on its linguistic and intellectual traditions. Colonial rulers propagated the idea that English was the superior and civilized language, and those who mastered it were considered cultured and progressive. This ideological imposition marginalized local languages, particularly Urdu, and reduced their social and cultural significance. A dual education system emerged: one in English, granting access to privilege, power, and government positions; and another in local languages, which was deemed inferior and left its adherents socially disadvantaged. This division not only created two distinct classes but also reshaped cultural perceptions, resulting in a gradual decline in the status of indigenous languages. Language, however, is not merely a medium of communication but a repository of thought, culture, and identity. It serves as a vital tool for expressing emotions, preserving traditions, and transmitting knowledge across generations.

References in Roman Script:

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