It is known as the ‘Italian of the East’ and it has seen some of the most prolific litterateurs that the intellectual and poetic world has ever seen. The sweetness of this has attracted several foreigners who learnt it out of love. Yes, we are talking about our very own ‘Maatru Bhasha’ Telugu. In today’s times, most of us may not know but then the Telugu language has got a history and heritage that very rare languages have got. Unfortunately, the due credit or the recognition is not being given to it. However, the ongoing Sri Krishna Devaraya utsavams has brought about few queries and thoughts which seem to be a wake up call by few conscientious individuals. Taking the cue from the Tamilnadu government and its love for the language, they are suggesting why not the government announces holidays for ‘Telugu Bhasha Dinotsavams’. Ironically, kids today tend to know about festivals and their existence only due to holidays. And given the impact of the western world and the influence of the media, they are losing their attention on the Telugu language and fail to understand its roots. This move can be an awakening to the kids. By announcing holidays and getting the kids to experience the essence of language will work. There are few other suggestions which have been made.
- to celebrate the Telugu Bhasha Dinotsavams as a festival in schools and colleges
- set up a separate ministry for the upliftment and creating awareness of the Telugu language
- though there is the Telugu Adhikara Basha Sangham, there must be an official language minister with a cabinet rank
- Sri Krishna Devaraya Utsavam is just not about honoring the ancient Emperor but also to the language since the great emperor has done a lot to spread the Telugu language and its literature.
For the record, Telugu has been given the ‘classical language (pracheena bhasha)’ status which is a rare milestone. How much efforts are being put to preserve that honor is anyone’s guess.
Government must take special steps to create awareness about Telugu relates organizations and the language promoting activities.
Special focus must be given to the education system especially on the Telugu language as that is the starting step for any person.
Media, Cultural Organizations and other entities must come together to drive the importance of the language among the common public.
The suggestions can be more but many say that even if half of them are implemented for starters, that will bring about a huge change. Improving and developing affection for our mother tongue is not just about preserving the culture, it also brings about a strong integrity among the Telugu people and gives them that special sense of belonging. Think about it folks and do what you can to feel proud about being a Telugu.
Venkat Arikatla ([email protected])
