Chapter 27: Languages of Jharkhand: A New Experience for Tourists

Abstract:

Visiting Jharkhand offers a unique linguistic experience for tourists, as the state is home to a diverse array of tribal languages like Santali, Ho, Mundari, Kharia, Kurukh, alongside Hindi, which is the official language, providing a chance to engage with the rich cultural tapestry of the region through language interactions. 

Key points about Jharkhand's languages for tourists:

• Tribal languages dominance:

  The most prominent languages in Jharkhand are tribal languages like Santali, Ho, Mundari, Kharia, and Kurukh, spoken by the indigenous populations, offering a chance to experience authentic tribal culture through language. 
• Regional variations:

  Within Jharkhand, different dialects of Hindi like Nagpuri, Khortha, and Sadri are spoken, adding another layer of linguistic diversity. 
• Cultural immersion:

  Learning a few basic phrases in a local tribal language can significantly enhance the tourist experience by allowing for deeper interactions with the local community. 
• Challenges and opportunities:

  While Hindi is widely understood, navigating areas with predominantly tribal populations may require some knowledge of local tribal languages for effective communication. 

Some popular tribal languages to learn a few phrases in:

• Santali: One of the most widely spoken tribal languages in Jharkhand.
• Ho: Spoken by the Ho tribe, known for their unique culture and traditions.
• Mundari: Another prominent tribal language with a significant presence in Jharkhand. 

How to experience Jharkhand's languages as a tourist:

• Local guides:

  Hiring local guides who can speak the tribal languages can provide valuable insights into the culture and language. 
• Community interactions:

  Engage with local people in villages and markets to practice basic phrases in their language. 
• Language learning apps:

  Utilize language learning apps to learn a few essential phrases in tribal languages before your visit. 

So let's explore the Chapter 27 in detail

Overview:

Jharkhand, a state rich in cultural heritage and linguistic diversity, is home to several indigenous languages spoken by its tribal and non-tribal communities. These languages belong to different language families, including Austroasiatic, Dravidian, and Indo-Aryan. The linguistic diversity of Jharkhand reflects its historical and social fabric, where various communities have coexisted for centuries. In this chapter, we explore the prominent languages of Jharkhand, their linguistic roots, cultural significance, and current status.

27.1 Linguistic Diversity of Jharkhand

Jharkhand’s linguistic landscape is shaped by its tribal and non-tribal population. The major language families found in the state are:

1. Austroasiatic Language Family – Includes languages like Mundari, Santhali, Ho, and Kharia.
2. Dravidian Language Family – Includes languages like Kurukh (Oraon) and Korwa.
3. Indo-Aryan Language Family – Includes languages like Sadri, Khortha, Panchpargania, and Kurmali.

The Jharkhand government recognizes Santhali, Mundari, Ho, and Kurukh as some of the prominent tribal languages, and efforts are being made to preserve and promote them.

27.2 Major Languages of Jharkhand

27.2.1 Mundari

• Language Family: Austroasiatic (Munda subgroup)
• Speakers: Mostly spoken by the Munda tribe.
• Writing System: Uses the Ol Chiki script, but also written in Devanagari and Roman scripts.
• Cultural Importance: Mundari is rich in folklore, songs, and oral traditions. The "Karam" festival, celebrated by the Munda people, has songs and rituals in this language.
• Current Status: Despite being widely spoken, Mundari faces challenges in terms of formal education and documentation.

27.2.2 Santhali

• Language Family: Austroasiatic (Munda subgroup)
• Speakers: Predominantly spoken by the Santhal community.
• Writing System: Ol Chiki script (developed by Pandit Raghunath Murmu).
• Cultural Importance: Santhali has a rich tradition of music, dance, and folklore. Santhal folk tales and songs form an integral part of their identity.
• Official Recognition: Santhali is recognized as one of the scheduled languages of India in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution.
• Current Status: Due to its recognition and script development, Santhali has seen growth in literature and education.

27.2.3 Ho

• Language Family: Austroasiatic (Munda subgroup)
• Speakers: Spoken by the Ho tribe, mainly in West Singhbhum and nearby regions.
• Writing System: Uses the Warang Citi script and also written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: Ho people have a distinct cultural identity, including traditional songs, storytelling, and rituals.
• Current Status: Ho is an endangered language, though there are efforts to revive and document it.

27.2.4 Kharia

• Language Family: Austroasiatic (Munda subgroup)
• Speakers: Primarily spoken by the Kharia tribe.
• Writing System: Mostly written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: The Kharia people have a deep connection with nature, reflected in their language, folklore, and songs.
• Current Status: It is considered a vulnerable language due to the increasing influence of dominant regional languages.

27.2.5 Kurukh (Oraon)

• Language Family: Dravidian
• Speakers: Spoken by the Oraon community.
• Writing System: Uses the Tolong Siki script but is also written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: Kurukh songs, dances, and traditional knowledge form an essential part of the Oraon identity.
• Current Status: Kurukh is gradually losing speakers due to the dominance of Hindi and other regional languages.

27.2.6 Khortha

• Language Family: Indo-Aryan (Eastern group)
• Speakers: Primarily spoken in the coal belt of Jharkhand, including districts like Dhanbad, Giridih, and Bokaro.
• Writing System: Written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: It is widely used in folk songs, literature, and communication among rural communities.
• Current Status: Despite being widely spoken, Khortha lacks formal recognition and literature.

27.2.7 Panchpargania

• Language Family: Indo-Aryan (Eastern group)
• Speakers: Spoken in the Ranchi and nearby regions.
• Writing System: Written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: It is a blend of multiple languages and is used by various communities.
• Current Status: It is not officially recognized but remains a crucial language of communication in rural areas.

27.2.8 Kurmali

• Language Family: Indo-Aryan (Eastern group)
• Speakers: Spoken by the Kurmi community, mainly in districts like Ranchi (Silli, Sonahatu, Tamar), East Singhbhum, Chakradharpur area, and parts of Odisha and West Bengal.
• Writing System: Written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: Kurmali has a strong tradition of folk songs and oral literature.
• Current Status: Efforts are being made to promote Kurmali through education and cultural programs.

27.2.9 Sadri

• Language Family: Indo-Aryan (Eastern group)
• Speakers: Widely used as a lingua franca among various tribal and non-tribal communities.
• Writing System: Written in Devanagari.
• Cultural Importance: Sadri serves as a bridge language among different ethnic groups and is commonly spoken among the tea garden workers of Assam and West Bengal.
• Current Status: Sadri is widely spoken but lacks official recognition.

27.3 Preservation and Promotion of Indigenous Languages

With the increasing influence of dominant languages like Hindi and English, many indigenous languages of Jharkhand are facing decline. However, various initiatives are being undertaken to preserve and promote them:

1. Education and Literature:

   • Introduction of tribal languages in schools to ensure children learn their native tongues.
   • Development of textbooks and literature in Mundari, Santhali, Ho, and Kurukh.

2. Cultural and Media Representation:

   • Promotion of tribal languages through folk music, storytelling, and cultural festivals.
   • Use of community radio and digital platforms to broadcast programs in indigenous languages.

3. Official Recognition and Government Initiatives:

   • Santhali’s inclusion in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution has encouraged the documentation and promotion of tribal languages.
   • Demand for inclusion of more Jharkhand languages in government education and administration.

27.4 Conclusion

Jharkhand’s linguistic diversity is an essential part of its rich cultural heritage. While some languages like Santhali have gained official recognition, many others are struggling for survival. It is crucial to document, promote, and integrate these languages into mainstream education and media to ensure they thrive for future generations. Language is not just a means of communication; it is a carrier of history, identity, and cultural values. Preserving the languages of Jharkhand means preserving its soul.