Consider the following languages:
- Gujarati
- Kannada
- Telugu
Which of the above has/have been declared as 'Classical Language/ Languages' by the Government?
Smart Elimination
First understand what classical language is. India declares classical language based on very old literature and historical heritage. We have been seeing the use of Kannada and Telugu from ancient time period onwards and we have very rich heritage and ancient inscriptions available on both. Whereas, for Gujarati is relatively newer with no ancient inscriptions.
Answer Key & Explanation
Answer: CThe correct answer is Option C.
Status of Classical Languages:
- Gujarati: Not a Classical Language.
- Kannada: Declared Classical in 2008.
- Telugu: Declared Classical in 2008.
Explanation: The Government of India declares languages as 'Classical' based on antiquity of texts/recorded history (1500-2000 years), valuable heritage, and literary tradition.
Value Addition
- List of Classical Languages: Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada (2008), Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013), Odia (2014).
- Recent Updates: In 2024, the government recognized Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali as Classical Languages (Current Affairs Update).
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Foundational question based on core concepts.