AMU Faculty delivers Platinum Jubilee Speech

Aligarh : Prof. MJ Warsi, the chairman of the Department of Linguistics at AMU and also serving as the President of the Linguistic Society of India, delivered Platinum Jubilee Speech as part of the commemoration event named “Linguistics in Sixty Years,” organized by the Department of Linguistics at the University of Kerala, marking its sixtieth anniversary on February 29. Prof. Warsi, in his address titled “India Speaks in Many Voices,” delved into the intricate diversity of languages that enrich India’s cultural tapestry.

During his speech, Prof. Warsi lauded India’s rich linguistic diversity, drawing parallels to a colorful flower pot adorned with a multitude of hues and sizes. Highlighting the importance of language in fostering cultural understanding, Prof. Warsi underscored how linguistic diversity serves as India’s greatest strength. By learning new languages, individuals can deepen their connections with different cultures, fostering empathy and respect.

The speech also paid homage to ancient linguistic traditions, notably the contributions of Panini, who’s Astadhyayi remains a pinnacle of linguistic analysis. Turning to modern language evolution, Prof. Warsi delved into the intertwined histories of Hindi and Urdu, tracing their roots back to the Mughal Empire. Despite distinct formal aspects, these languages share a common vernacular, reflecting India’s linguistic syncretism.

Prof. Warsi advocated for a pluralistic language policy that promotes the use of vernacular languages in education and administration. He lauded the National Education Policy 2020’s emphasis on mother tongue-based education and called for the preservation of endangered languages.