SIR ADNAN QURESHI PAKISTAN STUDIES-HISTORY-CHAPTER 5__________________

CHAPTER 5: URDU AND REGIONAL LANGUAGES

Urdu Language:

After independence Quaid-e-Azam said in clear cut words that the National Language of
Pakistan would be Urdu. He said:

‘Let me make it clear that the National Language of Pakistan is going to be Urdu and no other
language. Without one state language no nation can remain tied up solidly together.’

Evolution of Urdu

Urdu evolved over a period of centuries by cultural between local people of north of Sub
Continent and Muslims of Arabia, Iran and Turkey. The base of this language is Prakarit, an
Aryan language. The script of Urdu is modified form of Persian. Urdu is a word of Turkish
language and its literal meaning is camp.

Progress of Urdu Language

Due to the efforts of poets and writers during different periods of history. Urdu progressed well
and reached almost all parts of the sub-continent in the 16th Century. The Muslims, from time
to time, brought about changes and amendments in it to make it more simple and easy to
understand according to their needs and requirements.

After the emergence of Pakistan, a great deal of work has been done for the progress of Urdu
language. The Urdu language has crossed its evolutionary stages after the Independence and is
now on its way to the road of progress and development. Each Pakistani feels proud of
speaking, reading and writing Urdu. Most of our national leaders, while visiting other countries,
deliver their speeches in Urdu language which enhances its prestige on the International level.
Several Committees have been formed for the level. Being the national language of the country,
it is the binding force between different parts of Pakistan.

Certain points which express the importance of Urdu in national life are given below:

1. Means of Brotherhood and Unity

People of Pakistan are one nation, therefore their thinking, aims and objectives are common.
Their progress and prosperity depends upon their unity and brotherhood. An important factor
for achieving this unity and brotherhood is Urdu.

2. Source of Expression
Urdu has become a source of expression, feeling, thoughts and aspiration. People of two
different areas can easily understood each other ideas and thoughts by Urdu.

3. Means of Communication and Co-ordination

Urdu serves as a means of communication and is a binding force between all the four province
of Pakistan. People living in different provinces realize that in spite of speaking different
languages, they are joined together by one national language which is the heritage of all.

4. Medium of Instruction

Urdu language is the medium of instruction in most of the educational instituations of Pakistan.
History, Islamic Studies, Political Science and other subjects are taught upto M.A level in Urdu.
Lectures on Islamic education and religion are also delivered in Urdu throughout Pakistan.

Conclusion

Being the national language of the country it is the binding force in different parts of Pakistan.
The officers have adopted Urdu language in their official work and the Government has
published a dictionary contained Urdu terms for the office work. The Urdu Development Board
and "Anjuman-e-Taraqi-e-Urdu" are trying to give Urdu a place in society and it is hope that
Urdu would find its place in society within short period of time.

REGIONAL LANGUAGES OF PAKISTAN

Pakistan is a multi-lingual country. No less than twenty-four languages and dialects are spoken
by the people of Pakistan, but mainly include five regional languages Punjabi, Sindhi, Balochi,
Pushto, Brahvi and Kashmiri. These languages are rich in literature, poetry, folksongs and
spiritual sayings of their respective saints and contribute greatly to the culture of Pakistan.

The regional languages though distinct from one another in their forms, dialects and
expressions of thoughts have several common factors in them. They cultivate in them love,
respect and a firm adherence to the Pakistan Ideology. The regional languages of Pakistan are:

1. Punjabi

Punjabi is the local language of the province of the Punjab which is the biggest province of
Pakistan with regard to population and development. It has its links with the Aryan language
Prakarit. Before partition it was spoken in Delhi, Dhirpur, Peshawar and Jammu too. However,
as time rolled on the vocabulary of Punjabi language became a mixture of Persian, Arabic and
Turkish words. It has different dialects in different parts of Punjabi like Saraiki and Potohari
but the basic language remains the same.
Various Names

Punjabi is a very simple language and easy to understand. It was given various names during
different periods of history. Famous historian Masoodi called it Multani while Al-Beruni used
the name of Al-Hindi for it. The famous Sikh religious leader Baba Guru Nanak gave it the name
of Zaban-e-Jattan. In the NWFP it was known as Hindko. In the NWFP it was known as Hindko.
Hafiz Barkhurdar was the first person to use the name of Punjabi for this language in the first
half of 17th century in his book entitled Muftah-ul-Fiqah. Maulvi Kamal-ud-Din also used this
name for this language in his selected works.

Various forms of Lyric and Narrative Poetry

Punjabi is rich in mystical and romantic poetry. The highly imaginative and artistic exquisite
literature, mostly in verse has two forms one is "Lyric Poetry" which includes Bait, Kafi, Si-harfi,
Bara Mah and Satwara the other one i "Narrative Poetry" which is composed of various
rhythms and meters. Examples are Qissa Noor Namah, Gulzar, Jang Nama and Vaar.

Famous Punjabi Poets

Some of the famous poets of Punjabi language are:

* Baba Farid Shakar Ganj Baksh

* Sheikh Ibrahim Farid Shani

* Sultan Bahu

* Bullay Shah

Progress of Punjabi Language

Before partition Punjabi was spoken and understood in the eastern part of the Punjab. After
Independence concrete steps were taken for the promotion and development of this language
which made it a popular language in other parts of the province. The Government is still making
efforts for the progress of Punjabi language and extending support to those institutions which
are striving for its development. A present the Punjabi literature is taught up to M.A. level in
Pakistan.

2. Sindhi

Sindhi is one of the important regional languages of Pakistan. It appears that Sindhi was spoken
in the Indus Delta from time immemorial. It is said that the language of the people of Moen-jo-
Daro contained elements of the present Sindhi language.

The origin of this language is not exactly known. However, travelers like Al-Beruni have told us
about the original script of the language. "Chach Nama" being an authentic document proves
that the dialect of the Sindhi language was the same in the 12th century, as it is today. With the
advent and influence of Arabs in the Sub Continent Sindhi changed its form and adopted
maximum words of Arabic and also of Persian and Turkish.

Steps Taken to Develop Sindhi

Various steps have been taken to develop Urdu. Organizations like "Sindhi Literacy Board" and
"Bazm-e-Talib-ul-Maula" etc were set up. Several newspapers published in Sindhi, such as Ibrat,
Naw-i-Sind and Khadim-I-Watan besides a number of Weeklies.

Famous Sindhi Poets

Some of famous Sindhi Poets are

* Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai

* Sachal Sarmast

3. Balochi

Balochi is the regional language of Balochistan. It is the least developed of all the regional
languages. It was spread by Balochi tribal migrated from Iran.

Literature produced by earlier poets has no record as it is preserved traditionally in the

memories of the people. No newspapers or books were published in Balochi up till 1940. After
partition, however Balochi literature received a little boost due to the efforts made by many
associations and by the establishment of T.V stations. At present, Balochi literature is on the
road to development.

There are two types of Balochi namely:

1. Sulemani

2. Makrani

Well known poets of Balochi language are

* Jam Darag

* Shah Murid
Progress of Balochi Language

The Balochi literature was on the verge of decline before partition. After partition, however it
received little boost when Radio Pakistan, Karachi began its broadcast in Balochi language.
Balochi programmes were relayed from Radio Pakistan Karachi which enhanced the
developmental process of Balochi language.

Balochi Literary Association

The Balochi literary Association was set up which published many magazines and articles in
Balochi language. A weekly magazine known as "Nan Kessan" was published. A monthly known
as "Olassis" was also published.

Quetta Television Station

With the establishment of Quetta Television Station the Balochi language has received great
fillip. Atta Shah is a famous Balochi poet of Pakistan. Ishaq Shamim is another famous poet of
Balochi language whose poem "Dulhan" is very popular. The renowned politician Gul Khan
Naseer is also considered a good poet of Balochi language. Balochi prose has also developed a
great deal after partition. Translation of the Bible has also been published in Balochi language.

4. Pushto

Pushto is the regional language of the N.W.F.P and tribal areas. It belongs to the East Iranian
group of languages and contains many Persian, Arabic, Greek and Pehlevi words.

Famous Pushto Poets

Some of the well known poets of Pushto language are:

* Amir Karoro

* Khushal Khan Khatak

* Rehman Baba

Steps Taken to Develop Pushto

Although Pushto is an old language but its literature is comparatively new one. After
independence Pushto literature received a great boost.

The services rendered by the Pushto poets and writers in the freedom struggle, in fact
contributed a great deal towards the promotion of Pushto literature.

Sahibzada Abdul Qayyum worked very hard to create political awareness in the people of
N.W.F.P. The Islamic College, Peshawar which became the citadel of freedom movement in
N.W.F.P was established because of his dedicated services. Peshawar University was
established after three years of Independence.

An academy for the promotion of Pushto literature was set up under the supervision of the
Government. The Pushto academy was set up in 1954 and Maulana Abdul Qadir (Alig) was
appointed as its Director. This academy prepared Pushto dictionary.

PAST PAPER PRACTICE QUESTIONS:

1. WHAT STEPS WERE TAKEN BY GOVERNMENT TO PROMOTE URDU? [7]

2. WHY WAS PUNJABI PROMOTED BY THE GOVERNMENT DURING 1947 AND 1988?[7]
3. WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING CONTRIBUTED MORE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PAKISTAN
DURING 1947 AND 1988:
a. PUNJABI
b. SINDHI
c. PUSHTO
GIVER YOUR ANSWER WITH REFERNCE TO ALL THREE OF THE ABOVE. [14]
4. WHY URDU WAS PROMOTED BY THE GOVERNMENT MORE THAN ANY OTHER
LANGAUGE IN PAKISTAN DURING 1947 AND 1988? [14]

Q: Why have regional languages been promoted by the Pakistan government since 1947? [7]

It is the responsibility of all political powers to transmit to future generations their histories,
languages, oral traditions, writing systems and literatures. Language is the most important
element of life for preserving everything of historical importance e.g. local culture, art,
traditions, poetry, stories, music, letters, theatrical performances, ceremonies, special events,
rituals and family values. Promotion of regional languages is therefore important for preserving
such vital components of local life.

Our Native languages have been in oral use since centuries followed by development of written
texts. These languages contain generations of wisdom e.g. child rearing skills, curing illnesses,
acquiring food and settling disputes. If a language is lost, much of the knowledge it contains will
also be lost. Therefore, the government must implement successful programs to promote local
languages and protect them from disappearing.
Mother tongue provides identity to its speakers. It transmits family values from generation to
generation. People have strong attachment with their native languages. Survival of its speech
communities is linked with their languages. It is therefore the collective responsibility of
involved authorities to protect the people whose languages are becoming endangered.

Coming to modern era, private schools concentrate on English language and western
curriculum resulting in the erosion of language and culture. Native languages are vulnerable to
“English language invasion.” We are confronted with the problem of language shift. Under such
circumstances it is incumbent on the government to revive and preserve our regional languages
in all atmospheres of life with special emphasis in academic frameworks and public offices.

Many people love to watch dramas, talk shows and other TV programs in their native languages.
They like to hear local music. A number of local TV broadcasts on agricultural methods,
livestock rearing, poultry farming and fish farming are highly appreciated in the rural areas. TV
and radio programs in local languages play pivotal role skill-building of the nation. Being most
easily understood, sometimes teachers can use native languages for instructions in the
classrooms.

Q: Why did Pakistan choose Urdu as its national language in 1947? [7]

Ans:

Urdu was chosen as the official language of Pakistan on 2nd February 1948 by the Governor
General Mohammad Ali Jinnah.

One of the reasons why Urdu became the national language in Pakistan is its long history. It was
widely used in Mughal period and dates back as far as the sultans of Delhi. In its early stages it
was used by the Muslim armies and became widely spoken and understood in many parts of
the sub-continent. So it was natural that such a well-known and established language would be
chosen.

Another reason for Urdu being chosen was its high status. Some of the finest early poets such
as Amir Khusrou wrote in Urdu and Sir Syed Ahmad Khan’s school at Aligarh became a centre
for Urdu study. Many religious books, including the Quran, were translated into Urdu. So it was
considered an important language with a rich literary tradition.

Perhaps the major reason for Urdu being chosen was the fact that it was so closely associated
with the Pakistan Movement. Sir Syed Ahmad Khan supported it and the Muslim league was
formed not only to defend Muslim interests, but also to protect Urdu. The Quaid-e-Azam was
particularly keen to promote Urdu as he saw it was it as a unifying force. Since Pakistan was a
new country, it was very appropriate to pick a language which had played a part in unifying
Muslims.
Q: ‘The promotion of regional languages in Pakistan between 1947 and 1988 has been more
successful than the promotion of Urdu.’ Do you agree? Explain your answer. [14]

Ans:

Pakistan became independent in August 1947. There were many nations living in Pakistan who
belong to different languages. Jinnah announced Urdu as the official language and it was
promoted well however, all regional languages were promoted at all levels during 1947 and
1988.

Punjabi is the local language of the Punjab which contributes more than half of the total
population of Pakistan. It was a popular language amongst the Sufi poets who used it for their
romantic folk poetry. These poems contributed greatly to the popularity of Punjabi. After
Independence, steps were taken for the promotion and development of the language in other
parts of the province. The Government have ensured its development by giving support to
those institutions who are using it. It became the provincial language with M.A degree offered
by Punjab University. Pakistan Radio Lahore and Pakistan Television played a positive role in the
promotion of Punjabi language.

Sindhi was written in ‘Marwari’ and ‘Arz Nagari’ was of writing which was subsequently
changed into Arabic. After Independence, steps were taken to promote the language e.g. the
Sindhi Literary Board was set up in 1948 which has printed many books and magazines in the
language. Sindhiology Department at Sindh University played an important role in Sindhi.
Karachi Centre of PTV telecasted programs in Sindhi. Radio Pakistan also broadcasted many
programs in Sindhi language.

Pushto literature was boosted after Independence since the poets had contributed a great deal
to the freedom struggle. Bacha Khan University and Peshawar University offers Pashto language
degrees. Many mushairas and literary associations helped in supporting Pashto language.
Pashto films also played an important role in the promotion of Pashto.

The Baluchi language has also been promoted by its broadcasting on the radio. The
establishment of the Quetta Television Station has also helped to promote it. Bolan University
play an important role in the promotion of Balochi language. Quetta Radio Centre broadcasts
programs in Balochi.

Urdu carries immense importance for all Pakistanis since it has been considered to be the
language of all Muslims for 300 years. It was the language associated with the Pakistani
Movement throughout its struggle with the British and the Hindus. After Independence it was
felt that the language was the uniting force behind the nation and the government is
committed to using at all levels in society.

Urdu was promoted by many schools, colleges and universities as it became a medium of
communication. Urdu Literary Association was established in 1955 and played a vital role in the
promotion of Urdu. Radio and Television programs were made in Urdu and were heard and
watched everywhere in Pakistan. Urdu films also became well known and promoted the
language well.

Different books and dictionary were printed in Urdu language which played an active role in
promoting Urdu. Urdu became the most important language and a chain of communication
among all other languages.

It can be rightly said that Urdu played an important part in promoting awareness amongst all
Pakistanis however its number of speakers remained lesser than the regional languages
However, all regional languages were promoted well as they make custom, lifestyles and
culture of its speakers.

Prepared and Compiled by:

Sir Adnan Qureshi

0333-2248681

adnanqureshi8096@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/adnan.qureshi.5473
Prepared and Compiled by:

Sir Adnan Qureshi

0333-2248681

adnanqureshi8096@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/adnan.qureshi.5473