On January 10th each year, the world comes together to celebrate the linguistic treasure that is Hindi on World Hindi Day or Vishwa Hindi Diwas. The roots of this celebration trace back to the inaugural World Hindi Conference in Nagpur on January 10, 1975, a historic event inaugurated by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. In 2006, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh declared January 10 as World Hindi Day, extending the festivities beyond India’s borders.
This day holds immense significance as it marks the global acknowledgment of the Hindi language, bringing together a diaspora of Hindi speakers worldwide.
Derived from the Persian term ‘Hind,’ meaning ‘country of the Indus River,’ Hindi’s cultural and historical roots run deep. Beyond the borders of India, communities in Trinidad and Tobago, Nepal, Suriname, Guyana, Mauritius, and Fiji also embrace the language, making World Hindi Day a celebration that resonates globally.
The festivities surrounding World Hindi Day are as diverse as the language itself. Embassies and cultural centers around the world organize vibrant cultural programs, showcasing dance performances, music concerts, and plays that weave the rich cultural tapestry of India. These events not only celebrate the language but also serve as a testament to the diversity and inclusivity that Hindi embodies.
One of the highlights of World Hindi Day is the array of language competitions held to promote Hindi among students and professionals. Seminars, debates, quizzes, and speech competitions create an atmosphere of enthusiasm, encouraging the use of Hindi and recognizing the talents of speakers worldwide.
Back home in India, the enthusiasm is palpable. Schools and colleges organize debates, elocution contests, and seminars. Film festivals, drama competitions, and classical music shows further add to the celebration of the Hindi language and its rich cultural heritage.
In the pursuit of promoting Hindi on a global scale, the Indian government has taken commendable initiatives. The Central Hindi Directorate, ‘Hindi Chairs’ in foreign universities, and innovative language learning applications reflect a commitment to preserving and promoting the language.
As we celebrate World Hindi Day, we celebrate not just a language but a cultural bridge that connects people across borders. The world may speak in different tongues, but on this day, the echo of Hindi resonates as a testament to the linguistic and cultural diversity of India.
-Ranu Jain