North Indian Wedding

 Kashmiri Wedding

Kashmiri marriage, as the name suggests is the wedding ceremony celebrated in the valley of Kashmir. Just like the beautiful environs and the innocent natives of the place, Kashmiri wedding ceremonies are also quite simple and conducted in accordance with their own customs and rituals. The weddings cannot be called affluent but do have their own charm and luster. There are host or rituals observed before and after the Kashmiri marriage and thus make it a prolonged affair. Some important wedding rituals are given below.

Pre Wedding Rituals
The first ritual which takes place is Vanna or the engagement ceremony. The elders of both the families meet in a temple and exchange flowers to formalize the wedding alliance. Next is the Livun ritual, wherein the entire houses of both the bride and groom are cleaned. Just few days before the marriage, the Wanwun ritual is held, which is the musical session held at the house of the boy and the girl. This is followed by the Maanziraat ceremony, which begins with krool khanun. 

It is the ritual in which the door of the houses of bride and groom are decorated. This is followed by the ceremonial bathing of the bride, in the beginning of which the maternal uncle of the bride washes her feet. Just two three days before wedding, the bride's family sends 51 thaals to the groom's house, which contains sweets, dru fruits, ghee, sugar and gota. Around two days before wedding, the groom's family sends flower jewelry and tinsel for the bride, which serves as her first adornment. 

Just one day before marriage, Mehndi is applied to bride's hands and feet. On the wedding day morning, Diugun is performed, wherein the bride and the groom are applied a paste of curd, gram flour and saffron, followed by a bath. The bride's parents also give her dijaru, an ear ornament, which is the sign of a marriage. The next ritual is Sanzvaru, in which the groom's family sends cosmetics, mirror, sindoor and a betel leaf covered with gold or silver foil. After this the Duribat ritual takes place, in which the bride and the groom worship Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in their houses.

Wedding Rituals
The wedding procession is welcomed at the venue, wherein the fathers of the couple exchange nutmeg as symbol of eternal friendship. The bride and the groom are fed nabad and a dwar puja is conducted before going to the mandap for wedding ceremony. It is quite similar to the Hindu wedding and consists of seven pheras in front of the sacred fire, amidst mantras. After this the couple feeds each other with rice and finally the Vidai ceremony takes place, as per which the bride leaves for her marital home with her husband.

Post Wedding Rituals
On reaching the groom's house, they are given nabad to eat and the mananmal, the thread tied on their heads are exchanged. Two pigeons are also freed to celebrate the occasion. Then they are led to the kitchen where they have food, fed by the aunt. The next ritual is Satraat, as per which the bride along with groom and some kids visits her parents house. Here, the couple is presented with gifts. Phirlath is the ritual wherein the couple visits the bride's parents second time and once again they are given presents. 

This is followed by Roth Khabar ritual which is held on a Saturday or Tuesday after the wedding. According to this ritual, the bride's parents send, one meter long and two and a half meters wide cake, decorated with nuts, to the groom's house. Usually an odd number of cakes are sent. Then the bride visits her parents with the person who brought the cakes. After this, the groom's family sends somebody to fetch the bride back.

Punjabi Wedding

Punjabi marriages are known for their pomp and show. Just like the opulent culture of Punjab, Punjabi weddings are quite fun. They are conducted lavishly and celebrated with extreme gaiety. It is difficult to resist the fervor of these weddings as they comprise of traditional folk dances such as Bhangras and Giddas. To rejoice the special occasion like marriage, there are number of rituals, which are performed before and after the wedding. These rituals at times, seem to be just an excuse to celebrate and have fun.

Pre Wedding Rituals
The first ritual is the Roka ceremony which is conducted to secure the commitment from both the parties. It is a small function which basically involves exchange of sweets, gifts, dry fruits etc. The next ritual is Sagan which is either held at the groom's house or in banquet hall. The father of the bride applies tilak on the groom's forehead and offers him gifts and sweets. This is followed by Chunni Chadana, wherein the groom's family visits the bride's house. The groom's sister or sister-in-law presents the girl with a sari. After this, the mother-in-law places a red chunni on her head and gives her jewelry. 

After this, the bride is fed boiled rice and milk by the groom's family and the couple exchanges rings. Few days before marriage, the Sangeet ceremony takes place, in which the female members of the family sing and dance to celebrate the occasion. Just before marriage, Mehandi ceremony takes place. In this, the sister and brother-in-law of the groom take mehndi to bride's place. This mehandi is applied to the bride's hands and feet. They also give dry fruits and dates, half of which are consumed by the bride and the other half by the groom. 

Wedding Rituals
Before the wedding, the bride is given red and white bangles to wear by her maternal uncle. This is called the Chuda ceremony. In Ghara Ghardoli, the bride and the groom bathe with the water brought from the Gurudwara. On the main wedding day, a flower veil is tied on the groom's forehead, after which he sits on the horse. These are called Sehrabandi & Ghodi Chadna rituals. On reaching the wedding venue, the bride and the groom exchange garlands. This is known as Varmala ceremony. After this, they are taken to the mandap, where the father of the bride performs Kanyadaan. This is followed by Mangalpheras in front of the sacred fire.

Post Wedding Rituals
After wedding, the bride leaves for her marital home and throws back handful of rice towards her parental house. This is known as the Vidaai ceremony. On reaching the groom's house, the mother of the boy puts mustard oil on both the sides of the entrance door. Then she performs the traditional aarti and asks the newly wed couple to come inside and seek the blessings of the God. After this, a grand Reception party is thrown by the groom's family. This is done to give a warm welcome to new couple.

West Indian Weddings

 Marathi Wedding

Maharashtrian marriage is perhaps the simplest and the least opulent in the whole country. Unlike other weddings, most of the rituals are preformed early in the morning. The Maharashtrian marriage procedure starts with finding a suitable counterpart. After this, the horoscope of the boy and the girl are matched by the purohits. After the horoscopes match, the mahurut for the wedding is taken out. This is followed by the preparations for the marriage, with the wedding rituals being performed along side.

Pre Wedding Rituals
Sakhar Puda ceremony is the initial ritual which takes place in a Maharashtrain wedding. It can be termed as the engagement, wherein the bride is given a sari, and sweet or sugar, by the groom's family. Next is the Kelvan ceremony, which is performed at both the bride's and the groom's house. It is a small puja of the kuldevta, followed by a meal. After this, the Haldi ceremony takes place, wherein turmeric paste is applied to both the bride and the groom. This is known as Halad Chadavane. This is followed by Simant puja, wherein, once the groom arrives at the bride's place; her parents wash his feet and give him gifts. 

Wedding Rituals
Antarpat is a silk shawl used to separate the bride and the groom. The maternal uncle of the bride brings her to the dias, where the mangalashtakas are recited. Then the shawl is removed and the couple sees each other for the first time and exchange garlands. At this moment they are showered with unbroken rice. After this, the couple asks their parents for permission to get married. This is called the Sankalp ceremony. After this, the bride's parents perform the Kanyadaan ritual, wherein they offer their daughter to the groom. 

After Kanyadaan, the groom ties mangalsutra around bride's neck and applies vermillion in her hair parting. She in return applies a sandalwood tilak on his forehead. Next is the Vivah Homa, which is conducted by the groom in assistance with the priest. Following this is the Saptapadhi ritual, wherein the couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire, taking seven vows. The wedding ceremony comes to an end with the Karmasampati ritual, wherein the bride's father, the bride and the groom please Gods to bless the wedlock.

Post Wedding Rituals
Grihapravesh is the first ritual conducted after wedding. The groom's mother welcomes the new couple and washes their feet with milk and water. After this the traditional aarti is performed and the bride is asked to enter the house by knocking down a glass of rice, kept at the entrance. The couple enters the house with their right foot. Last but not the least Reception party is organized, wherein sumptuous food is served for the guests.

Rajasthani Wedding

Marwari marriage is celebrated with gaiety. It is an elaborate affair and extends over a period of days. Marwari wedding strictly adhere to the ancient customs and traditions. There are a number of pre wedding, wedding and post wedding rituals, which are observed. After the completion of all these rituals only, the marriage is deemed complete. In fact, Marwari marriages are very traditional and rather regal in look and appeal. For more information on Marwari wedding rituals, read on. 

Pre Wedding Rituals
The engagement ceremony is the first ritual, which is performed at the groom's house. Only the male members of the bride's family visit the groom's place for the ceremony. The bride's brother applies tilak on the groom's forehead and gives him gifts. After this the Ganapati Sthapna & Griha Shanti ceremony is held, wherein the bride and the groom's family perform havan and install the idol of Lord Ganesha. The next is the Pithi Dastoor, in which the bride and the groom are applied turmeric paste. 

Mehfils form an integral part of the wedding celebrations. Both men and women have their own mehfils, wherein they sing and dance. This is followed by Mahira Dastoor custom, as per which the maternal uncles of the bride and the groom distributes gifts in the house. Other important ritual is Janev, in which the groom is made to wear a white thread. The groom pretends to run away from the marital bounds while his maternal uncle tries to convince him. Subsequently, the Palla Dastoor is conducted, wherein the bride worships Goddess Gauri.

Wedding Rituals
On the wedding day, the Rajput Baraat visits the bride's house. It is a regal procession, which does not involve any dancing. On his arrival he is welcomed by his mother-in-law, with the traditional aarti. He then proceeds towards the mandap. Here, mostly the women of the bride's family are present as themale members are entertaining the baraat. During the complete ceremony the bride covers her face with a long veil. From the groom's side, only one male member accompanies him.

Post Wedding Rituals
After the wedding, the bride and the groom leave for their marital home. A coconut is placed under the wheel of the car, as the bride unveils herself in front of her husband. Usually at this point of time, the groom gifts her a piece of jewelry. On arrival at the groom's house, his family welcomes the newly wed couple. This is called the Grihapravesh custom. The next day after the Grihapravesh, Pagelagni tradition is followed. According to this custom, all the members of the groom's family are introduced to the new bride and they present her with gifts.

Gujarati Wedding

Gujaratis or the people of Gujarat are known for their rich, vibrant and colorful culture. Moreover, they are warm and cheerful, who are fond of celebrating festivals with fervor. This is quite evident in a Gujarati marriage as well. The wedding rituals in Gujarat are simple and filled with fun. The unique blend of traditions and ingenuousness is something which makes Gujarati weddings a sheer delight. Given below is vital information on Gujarati wedding rituals.

Pre Wedding Rituals
The pre wedding rituals begin Mangal Mahurat ceremony. It is performed by both the bride and the groom in their respective houses. Prayers are offered to Lord Ganesha to remove all obstacles. After matching the horoscopes of the couple, Griha Shanti puja is held. This is done by the priest at the houses of both the bride as well as the groom. The next ritual is known as 'Jaan' and it is performed to ward off any evil. It is quite interesting as the groom visits the bride place and touches his mother in law's feet to seek blessings. While he does so, she tries to clutch his nose and he tries to escape. 

Wedding Rituals
On the wedding day, the first ritual, which takes place, is the Jaimala, wherein the couple exchanges garlands twice. Next is the Madhuparka ritual in which groom's feet are washed and he is given honey and milk to drink. During this the sisters of the bride try to steal the groom's shoes, known as 'Juta Churai'. One of the most important rituals on the wedding day is Kanyadaan, in which the bride's father washes groom's feet and gives him the hand of his daughter. This is followed by Hasta Milap, wherein the groom's shawl is tied with bride's saree. 

The tying of the holy knot and the joined hands of the couple, signify their union. Rose petals and rice are showered upon them, during this time. After this, the couple takes rounds, around the scared fire, while the priest chants mantras. These are known as Mangalpheras. There are four pheras in Gujarati marriage. This is followed by Saptapadi, which are seven steps and vows taken by the couple together. Subsequently, they are blessed by their parents and elders.

Post Wedding Rituals
Reception is post wedding ritual, wherein all the near and dear ones give gifts to the couple. This is followed by the Vidaai ceremony, in which the bride is bid a tearful farewell by her family. On reaching the groom's house, the bride is asked to knock down a vessel filled with rice, with her right foot, kept at the entrance. This ritual is known as Ghar Ni Lakshmi as the bride is considered form of Goddess Laxmi. Next is the fun filled ritual called Aeki Beki, which is a wedding game played by the couple. A vessel is filed with water and colored by putting sindoor and milk. After this, everal coins and a ring are put in it. Both the bride and the groom are then asked to find it. Whoever, succeeds four out of seven times is deemed to rule the household.

Sindhi Wedding

Sindhi people are basically Sanatani Hindus, who do not follow Hindu rites strictly. However, Sindhi marriage is conducted in accordance with the Vedic rites. Sindhi weddings reflect a blend of Hinduism and Sufism. Usually the weddings take place on the auspicious days like Satyanarayan Chandsi or the new moon day. like Hindu marriage, Sindhis also observe a number of pre wedding, wedding and post wedding rituals. Read on to know more about the ceremony.

Pre Wedding Rituals
Kachchi Misri & Pakki Mishri Ceremony is the first ritual conducted before marriage. In Kachchi Misri, a coconut and mishri is given to the bride and the groom, signifying they are one. One week prior to the wedding, the Pakki Mishri takes place, wherein the formal engagement takes place and the couple exchanges rings. Berana Satsang is conducted in the name of Sindhi God Jhulelal. After this, the Mehendi ceremony is held in which the bride's hands and feet are adorned with henna designs. Next is the Santh custom, according to which seven married ladies apply oil in bride's hair.

After this, an earthen pot is placed before her and she is asked to break its cover in one go. The Sangeet party is a dance and music fiesta for women. Then the Saagri tradition is held, which involves the showering of flowers on the bride. The groom's married sisters and cousins visit the bride's place and beautify her with flower jewelry made of Mogra. Subsequently, the Ghari puja takes place at bride's and groom's place. Payers are done and women grind wheat as a symbol of prosperity. A handful of grains are given to the priest by the groom. 

Wedding Rituals
Thread ceremony is an important wedding ritual, in which turmeric powder and oil is applied to the bride and the groom. After this, they are not allowed to step out of their homes before marriage. Next is the Swagatam custom, wherein the groom is welcomed to the bride's house by her sisters and friends. At the entrance the groom places his right foot on top of the bride's foot. After this, the bride's parents wash his feet with milk and water. 

After this, the Hathialo tradition is held, wherein the groom's shawl is tied to the bride's sari. Their right hands are also tied with red scarf ad they pray to the Almighty to bless their union. Then the main wedding ceremony begins. The couple is seated in front of the sacred fire. While the priest chants mantras, they take four rounds around the fire. Next is the Kanya Daan ceremony, wherein the parents of he bride hand her over to the groom.

Post Wedding Rituals
After the wedding, the bride is welcomed in her new house. Her in-laws wash her feet and cover her head while she sprinkles milk all over the house. After this, the bride takes a handful of salt and gives to the groom. The groom then gives it back to her, without spilling any. This process is repeated thrice. This is known as Datar Ceremony. This is also carried out with other members of the family. Next is Chhanar ritual or Dev Uthana, in which Devs is removed from the house. Subsequently, Sataurah custom is observed, following which the newly wedded couple visits the bride's house at an auspicious time decided by the priest.

South Indian Weddings

 Kannada Wedding

Kannada marriages are the weddings conducted in the state of Karnataka. In performance, Kannada marriage resembles the traditional Hindu marriage. However, the customs and traditions observed do differ according to the region they are practiced in. As a matter of act of fact there is not much difference and the rituals are simple. This provides ample opportunity to the families to enjoy the occasion. Given below are the wedding rituals of a Kannada wedding.

Pre Wedding Rituals
In Karnataka, the pre wedding rituals commence with Naandi custom. It is performed by both the bride and the groom in their houses. It is done to ensure the marriage takes place uninterruptedly. The next is Kaashi Yatre tradition. It is an interesting ritual, wherein the groom pretends of leaving for Kashi as he is devoid of a suitable bride. He only stops when his maternal uncle shows him the bride he has chosen for him. Just before the groom leaves for the bride's village, all the items for marriage are placed in front of Lord anesha to seek his blessings. This is called Dev Karya ceremony. After this, both the bride and the groom are applied turmeric paste.

Wedding Rituals
On the wedding day the first ritual is Mandap puja, according to which the mandap and the hall where the wedding is to be conducted are purified. After this the bride's father worships the groom by washing his feet. This is known as Var puja. This is followed by bride's entry to the mandap. Here, they exchange garlands on the chant of holy mantras. Next is the Dhare Herdu custom, wherein the bride's parents give away her daughter to the groom, by placing a coconut and betel over their hands and pouring holy water. Then the groom ties mangalsutra around bride's neck. After this, Saptapadi ceremony is held and the couple takes seven rounds around the sacred fire.

Post Wedding Rituals
After the wedding, when the bride comes to her marital home, she is given a warm welcome by her in-laws. A vessel filled with rice is kept at the entrance of the house and she is asked to knock it inside the house, with her right foot. After this, the bride enters the house and this is called Griha Pravesh. After this is the name change ceremony, in which the groom decides a name for his wife. He then inscribes it with a ring on a plate, containing rice. 

On the second day after marriage, the bride's parents visit the newly wed couple. They then take the couple to their home along with themselves. The couple stays there for some days after which the groom's family goes to the bride's house to take them back. The Reception party concludes the wedding, which is organized in a banquet hall by the groom's family. The main aim of this party is introduction of the bride, enjoyment, and relishing mouth watering delicacies.

Tamilian Wedding

Tamil marriages are not very showy and extravagant as Tamilians believe in simple living. Tamil people are very particular about their customs and traditions. However, Tamil weddings are attended by distant relatives and friends and hence are held on a large scale. There are many wedding rituals which are observed by them, without which the marriage is deemed incomplete. The important Tamil wedding rituals are given below.

Pre Wedding Rituals
The wedding rituals begin with Panda Kaal Muhurtham, wherein the families of the bride and the groom pray to the Lord for an uninterrupted wedding ceremony. After this, the groom is welcomed with the traditional aarti by the bride's side on the day before marriage. He is offered sweets, sprinkled with rose water and even a coconut is broken to ward off any evil. Next is Vratham, which is a small puja organized before marriage. Following this is Pallikai Thellichal ceremony, as per which grains are sprouted in earthen pots, which are later immersed in a pond to feed the fishes.

The next ritual is Naandi, in which Brahmins are given gifts and sweets to seek their blessings for the wedding alliance. Nicchiyadharatham is the formal engagement ceremony, wherein the bride and the groom exchange rings. After this, the Reading of Lagna Pathirigai takes place, which is formally announcing the wedding and reading out aloud the wedding invitation, to inform everybody about the formalizing of the alliance.

Wedding Rituals
On the day of the wedding, Mangala Snaanam takes place, as per which the bride and the groom take purifying bath. Before the bath, oil and haldi-kumkum are applied to them. Another interesting ritual is Kashi Yatra, wherein the groom threatens everyone to leave for Kashi and lead a life of ascetic. He is stopped by the bride's father, who promises to give his daughter to her. After this, the groom heads towards the mandap, where he meets the bride.

Then the exchange of garlands takes place between the bride and the groom. This is followed by the Oonjal ritual, wherein the couple is seated on a swing and given milk and banana to eat. Rice balls are used to prevent them from evil eye. This is followed by Kanyadaanam, in which the bride's father gives away his daughter to the groom. After this, Muhurtum ritual takes place wherein the groom ties mangalsutra and puts vermillion to the bride. Subsequently, they take seven rounds and seven vows around the sacred fire called Saptapadi.

Post Wedding Rituals
After the wedding, both the families exchange gifts with each other. This is called Sammandhi Mariyathai. After all the wedding ceremonies are over, the bride leaves with her husband for her marital home. Here, she is welcomed by her new family with the traditional aarti. This is known as Grihapravesham. In the evening, the Reception party takes place, which is an informal event. The guests meet the newly wed couple and give them blessings. This is followed by sumptuous dinner.

Telugu Wedding

Telugu marriage is accomplished strictly in accordance with the age old customs and traditions. For this reason, it even bears resemblance with Hindu and Tamil weddings. One of the special features of Telugu culture is that the bride or wife is given utmost importance in the society. She is referred to as the ardhangini or the better half of her husband. No religious ritual is deemed complete without her participation. To know more about the Telugu wedding rituals, read on.

Pre Wedding Rituals
First and foremost the Muhurtam ritual takes place, in which the auspicious time is decided for conducting the wedding. Next is Pendlikoothuru ritual, wherein oil and turmeric is applied to the bride, after which she is given a bath. After this the Snathakam ritual is observed, as per which a silver thread is worn by the groom. This is followed by the fun filled ritual of Kashi Yatra, as per which the groom pretends to leave for Kashi but he is interrupted by the bride's brother, who promises to give him his sister in the alliance.

On the day of the wedding, the bride and the groom perform the Mangala Snaanam ritual, in which they take holy purifying bath. After the bath, they are anointed with oil and traditional aarti is performed. Following this is Gauri puja, which is done by the bride to seek the blessings of Mother Goddess. After this, the groom performs Ganesh puja in the mandap at the wedding venue, before marriage and requests the Lord to remove all obstacles.

Wedding Rituals
In the mandap, the bride is brought by her maternal uncle. The couple has a curtain between them as the priest recited mantras. After this, the Kanyadaan ritual is performed by the father of the bride. He washes the feet of the groom and gives his daughter to him. The curtain is removed at the time of tying the Mangalsutra ritual. 

The groom ties a mangalsutra around the bride's neck with thee knots. After this the couple exchanges garlands and are showered by flowers and yellow colored rice. This is called Kanya Daan Akshata ceremony. Next, the Saptapadi ritual takes place, wherein the couple takes seven rounds and vows around the sacred fire. Subsequently, the groom slips silver toe rings on bride's feet. This ritual is called Sthaalipaakam.

Post Wedding Rituals
After the wedding ceremonies are over, the bride leaves for her marital house, along with the groom. On reaching the groom's house, the newly wed couple is welcomed by his parents. The bride enters the house for the first time, which is called the Grihapravesh ceremony.

Indian New Years

📌Hindu Lunar Calendar : March / April

1.  Ugadi  -  Kannada, Telugu

2. Gudi Padwa -  Marathi 

3. Sanvsar Padvo - Konkani

4. Sajibu Cheiraoba -  Manipuri

5. Navreh - Kashmiri

6. Cheti Chand - Sindhi

7. Chaitra Navratri / Chaitra Sukhladi - Braj, Awadhi, Bhojpuri, Maghi, Bundeli, Bageli, Gondi, 

8. Sarhul - Oraon, Munda

9. Bah Porob - Ho

📌Hindus Solar Calendar : 14th / 15th April 

1. Bisu Parba - Tulu

2. Edamyar Ondh / Bisu Changrandi - Kodava

3. Puthandu - Tamil

4. Vishu - Malayalam

5. Basoa/Bishu - Himachali

6.  Bikhoti/Vishuvat Sankranti - Garhwali, Kumauni

7. Baisakhi - Punjabi, Haryanvi, Dogri

8. Bohag/Rongali Bihu - Assamese

9. Maha Bishuva Sankranti - Odia

10. Poila Boishakh - Bengali

11. Jur Shital - Maithili 

12. Bwisagu - Bodo

13. Buisu - Tripuri

14. Sangken - Arunachali

  📌Other Hindu New Year Days : 

1. Ashadhi Beej - Kutchis - July

2. Bestu Varas/Naya Saal - Gujarati and Rajasthani - October / November 

3. Losoong/Namsoong – Sikkimese Butia, Lepcha  - December 

4. Koodalu - Badugu(Badaga) - December

5. Losar - Ladakhi - Feb/Mar

📌Chritians New Year  - January  1st 

📌Islam Hijri New Year  - October  / November 

 

📌Jain New Year - After celebrating Diwali at the end of Ashwina, Jains celebrate new year on the first day of the following month of Kartika - October  / November 

 

📌Jamshedi Navroz - Zoroastrians New year - August 

 

📌Rosh Hashanah - Jewish/ Judaism  New Year - September 

Happy New Year to all.....

Loosing Linguistic Identity in Delhi

Loosing Our Identity :

 

Recently I travelled to Delhi and by chance the day I reached, got an invite from my friend to attend Karnataka food mela, I was so happy to be part of it. Soon I got ready and travelled 25 kms to reach the venue. We could see a big board written Karnataka Sangha Delhi and took pictures of it and posted all over social media about Karnataka’s pride in national capital and  that too in Hindi speaking region.

We tasted some authentic Karnataka cuisine and  got a chance to meet and speak in North Karnataka Kannada dialect, Tulu and even in Konkani. It all just made my day. As I was passing by I heard baby crying “mom its spicy… too spicy … “ suddenly one more child asks in Hindi “Mamma Spicy ko Kannada main Kya Bolte Hai” (Mom what you call spicy in Kannada) that time I realised none of younger generation speaks in Kannada or Tulu or Konkani. They all know only Hindi and English. It was a big shock to me.

 

These parents don’t talk to their kids in their mother tongue because they think it's useless. To them international and so called National languages give their children a competitive edge and that's all that matters. I have even heard a few teachers advise parents to stop using their mother tongue at home to help their kids improve their performance at school.

 

I just felt, thanks to my mom today I can fluently read, write and speak in my mother tongue Konkani.

After all, language is the key to our culture and our roots. When children learn their mother tongue, they also learn more about where they came from and what their culture stands for.

One of the major challenges we face as parents living away from home is giving our kids access to the rich cultural heritage of our region, state or country. Many of us emigrate from our homes out of necessity -- better job opportunities, better lifestyle, better education for the kids. While we are busy making a living abroad or outside their linguistic territory, we forget the fact that our kids are growing up in a foreign land. There are so many things they do not learn. While many of us parents try our level best to inculcate our traditions and heritage in our children, others do not think that doing so is necessary.

Learning multiple languages has been proven to boost brain power... if that language happens to be their mother tongue, so much the better.

In fact, this advice was even doled out to the parents of a toddler who was going to play school. There's no doubt that this child would have learned English over time in school. But what about the mother tongue?

Here are some reasons why many parents don't speak to their kids in their mother tongue:

·         They think it will not do them any good in academics or in their work life later.

·         Some parents have a sense of inferiority about their cultural roots and don't want their child to learn a language they themselves see as being somehow "less than".

·         Some of them think it can help them learn English or Hindi at a very early age.

·         They simply do not see the point in teaching their mother tongue to their kids.

I beg to differ.

·         Your kids, especially when they are growing up other places will have every opportunity to pick up other  languages. They'll have that much sought-after competitive advantage and the necessary communication skills to thrive in their current environment. But there are also so many advantages to learning their mother tongue as well. They'll have a sense of rootedness and guess what, learning multiple languages, has been proven to boost brain power And if one of those languages happens to be their mother tongue, so much the better

How Healthy is your language / Mother Tongue

Healthy/strong - All generations use language in variety of settings          

               

sl No      Healthy/strong languages

1              Assamese

2              Bengali (Bangla)

3              Bodo

4              Gujarati

5              Hindustani(Hindi/Urdu)

6              Kannada

7              Kashmiri

8              Malayalam

9              Meitei/Manipuri

10            Marathi

11            Nepali

12            Odia

13            Santali

14            Tamil

15            Telugu

               

               

Weakening/sick - spoken by older people; not fully used in younger generations

               

sl No      Weakening/sicklanguages

1              Badaga/Baduga/Badagu

2              Beary

3              Bhojpuri (Gawari, Sadan/Sadri, Nagpuria)

4              Braj Basha (Bundeli, Bagheli, Kadiboli)

5              Chhattisgarhi ( Surgujia)

6              Dimasa

7              Dogri

8              Garhwali

9              Gondi

10            Haryanvi (Ahirwati)

11            Karbi

12            Kodava

13            Kokborok/Tripuri

14            Konkani (Malvani, Sangameshwari, Koli, Agri)

15            Kumauni

16            Kutchi

17            Ladakhi

18            Lepcha

19            Limbu

20            Magadhi/Magahi (Khortha/Khotta/Kortha)

21            Maithili (Angika, Bajjika)

22            Mizo

23            Pahari/Himachali (Kangri, Mandeali, Chambeali, Jaunsari,  Kullui,  Hinduri, Mahasuvi, Sirmauri)

24            Punjabi 

25            Rajasthani (Marwari, Mewari, Mewati, Dhundari, Wagari/Vagari,      Shekhawati, Harauti, Malvi, Nimadi, Bagri, Banjari/Lamani/Lambadi/Lambani/Gor/Sugali, Dhatki

26           Rajbongshi (Kamtapuri, surjapuri,  Dutta, Rajbangsi, Rajbansi, Rajbanshi, Goalparia, Koch                 Rajbanshi, Tajpuri, Kochrajbongshi, Goalpariya/Deshi bhasha/ Uzani, Rangpuri, Bahe Bangla, Ancholit Bangla, Kamta, Polia.

27           Sindhi

28           Tulu

29           Awadhi (Kanauji)

               

               

Vulnerable - most children speak the language, but it may be restricted to certain domains (e.g., home) 

               

sl No.     Vulnerable Languages

1             Adi language

2             Anal language

3             Angami language

4             Ao language

5             Apatani language

6             Balti language

7             Bangni language

8             Bhumji language

9             Bishnupriya Manipuri language

10           Bokar language

11           Chang language

12           Chokri language

13           Galo language

14           Gutob language

15           Hmar language

16           Ho language

17           Hrangkhol language

18           Irula language

19           Kabui language

20           Khampti language

21           Kharia language

22           Kheza language

23           Khiamngan language

24           Khoirao language

25           Koda language

26           Konyak language

27           Korku language

28           Korwa language

29           Kui language

30           Kurukh /Oroan / Kurux  language

31           Lhota language

32           Liangmai language

33           Manchad language

34           Mao language

35           Maram language

36           Maring language

37           Miju language

38           Minyong language

39           Mundari language

40           Mzieme language

41           Nocte language

42           Nruanghmei language

43           Nyishi language

44           Padam language

45           Padri language

46           Paite language

47           Phom language

48           Pochuri language

49           Purik language

50           Rabha language

51           Rengma language

52           Rongpo language

53           Sangtam language

54           Sherdukpen language

55           Sherpa language

56           Simi language

57           Sora language

58           Spiti language

59           Tagin language

60           Tamang language

61           Tangkhul language

62           Tangsa language

63           Taruang language

64           Tawang language

65           Thado language

66           Tshangla language

67           Wancho language

68           Yimchungru language

69           Zeme language

               

               

               

Definitely endangered - children no longer learn the language as a 'mother tongue' in the home or only a few speakers (non-children) remain; no longer used as native language by children      

               

sl. No     Definitely endangered

1              Asur language

2              Bawm language

3              Beechistani language

4              Bhadravahi language

5              Bhalesi language

6              Bharmauri language

7              Biete language

8              Bori language

9              Brokshat language

10            Bunan language

11            Byangsi language

12            Churahi language

13            Dakpa language

14            Darma language

15            Deori language

16            Gangte language

17            Gorum language

18            Hill Miri language

19            Hruso language

20            Idu language

21            Jad language

22            Jangshung language

23            Juang language

24            Kachari language

25            Kanashi language

26            Khamba language

27            Khasali language

28            Khowa language

29            Koch language

30            Kolami language

31            Kom language

32            Konda language

33            Koro language

34            Kului language

35            Kundal Shahi language

36            Kurru language

37            Kuvi language

38            Lishpa language            

39            Malto language

40            Mara language

41            Miji language

42            Milang language

43            Mising language

44            Motuo Menba language

43            Moyon language

44            Nahali language

45            Pasi dialect of Adi

46            Singpho language

47            Sulung language

48            Tinan language

49            Tiwa language

50            Turi language

51            Zakhring language

52            Zangskari language

               

               

               

Severely endangered - language is spoken by grandparents and older generations; while the parent generation may understand it, they do not speak it to children or among themselves       

               

               

Sl. No    Severely endangered

1              A'tong language

2              Aiton language

3              Geta? language

4              Mech language

5              Remo language

6              Tai Phake language

               

               

               

Critically endangered - the youngest speakers are grandparents and older, and they speak the language partially and infrequently      

               

Sl. No.   Critically endangered

1              Aimol language

2              Baghati language

3              Bangani language

4              Bellari language

5              Birhor language

6              Gadaba language

7              Jarawa language  

8              Kinnauri language

9              Koireng language

10            Koraga language

11            Kota language

12            Kuruba language

13            Lamgang language

14            Lamongse language

15            Langrong language

16            Luro language

17            Manda language

18            Mra language

19            Muot language

20            Na language

21            Naiki language

22            Nihali language

23            Onge language

24            Pangvali language

25            Parji language

26            Pengo language

27            Pu language

28            Purum language

29            Ruga language

30            Sanenyo language

31            Sentinelese language

32            Shompen language

33            Sirmaudi language

34            Tai Nora language

35            Tai Rong language

36            Takahanyilang language

37            Tangam language

38            Tarao language

39            Toda language

40            Toto language

               

               

 Dead but Reviving - no longer spoken as a native language  but trying to revive.

                 

Sl. No.   Extinct Languages but reviving.

1              Prakrit

2              Pali

3.             Sanskrit

               

               

Extinct  - there are no speakers left or  no longer spoken or potentially spoken   

               

Sl. No.   Extinct Languages

1              Ahom

2              Akar – Bale

3              Aka-Bea

4              Aka – Bo

5              Aka-Cari

6              Aka-Jeru

7              Aka-Kede

8              Aka-Kol

9              Aka-Kora

10            Andro

11            Malaryan

12            Oko-Juwoi

13            Pali

14            Rangkas

15            Sengmai

16            Turung