Language is more than just a tool for communication; it is the soul of a culture, the voice of a community, and the thread that connects us to the essence of a place

-
Language is more than just a tool for communication; it is the soul of a culture, the voice of a community, and the thread that connects us to the essence of a place. When we choose to make a region our home, whether temporarily or permanently, embracing the local language is not just a courtesy—it is a gesture of respect, gratitude, and belonging.

Refusing to learn or make an effort to understand the native language of a place within our own country under the guise of "personal choice" reflects an unwillingness to respect the identity and culture of the community that welcomes us. It creates a wall of detachment, denying us the richness of experiences and relationships that come from truly engaging with the local culture.

What adds to the irony is the ease with which many of us adapt to learning new languages when we migrate abroad. There, it becomes a necessity to integrate into the fabric of a new society, and we take pride in doing so. Why, then, should the same respect and effort not be extended to the languages spoken in our own country?

India is a mosaic of diverse cultures, each with its own linguistic heritage. Making an effort to learn the local language is not about losing our identity; it’s about enriching it. It’s about being part of the community, fostering unity, and building bridges of understanding.

Respecting a language means respecting the people who speak it, their history, their struggles, and their way of life. To refuse this opportunity for connection is to deny oneself the chance to truly belong.

Let us remember that while languages can vary, the underlying message of respect, effort, and harmony is universal.

Venkataramanan Ramasethu
15th November 2024

Popular posts from this blog

"A Bronx Tale" is a compelling crime and coming-of-age drama directed by and starring Robert De Niro, released in 1993.

-
Image
"A Bronx Tale" is a compelling crime and coming-of-age drama directed by and starring Robert De Niro, released in 1993. The film is a powerful narrative set in the 1960s Bronx, New York, revolving around the life of a young Italian-American boy, Calogero Anello, who is torn between his admiration for a local mob boss, Sonny, and his hard-working, honest father, Lorenzo. The story kicks off when Calogero witnesses Sonny, the charismatic yet feared gangster, commit a murder. When the police arrive, Calogero chooses not to identify Sonny as the shooter, beginning a complex relationship between the boy and the mobster. Sonny takes Calogero under his wing, nicknaming him "C," and introduces him to the ways of organized crime. This mentorship provides Calogero with a seductive glimpse into a world of easy money and respect, contrasting sharply with his father's values of hard work and honesty. Lorenzo, portrayed by De Niro, is a bus driver who goes to grea...
Read more

"The Deer Hunter," released in 1978

-
Image
"The Deer Hunter," released in 1978, stands as a cinematic masterpiece, a haunting portrayal of the impacts of the Vietnam War on the lives of American soldiers and their communities. Central to this film are the deeply moving performances of Robert De Niro and Meryl Streep, actors of extraordinary talent and depth. De Niro, playing Michael, embodies the transformation of a man touched by the horrors of war. His portrayal is a journey through the human psyche, grappling with the brutality of conflict and the struggle to retain humanity amidst chaos. De Niro's ability to convey a complex range of emotions - from stoic resilience to profound trauma - is nothing short of masterful. He brings to life a character who is both heroic and deeply flawed, allowing the audience to feel the weight of his experiences. Meryl Streep, as Linda, offers a poignant and sensitive portrayal of a woman caught in the turmoil of war, albeit from the home front. Streep's performan...
Read more

In 1945, amidst the vibrant yet recovering streets of Paris, a French woman named Marie set off on a journey that would become a legendary tale among the locals.

-
Image
In 1945, amidst the vibrant yet recovering streets of Paris, a French woman named Marie set off on a journey that would become a legendary tale among the locals. Armed with a baguette under her arm and a basket filled with six bottles of wine, she ventured through the post-war cityscape. Despite the city bearing the scars of conflict, Marie's resolve stood firm. The war had deeply affected Paris, yet the unbreakable spirit of its residents shone brightly. Marie, wielding her baguette as a beacon of hope and sustenance, aimed to restore a semblance of normality to the battered city. Wandering the quaint cobblestone alleys, Marie met other Parisians who had weathered the storm of war. Offering them a slice of her baguette and a sip of wine with a smile and comforting words, she became a symbol of hope. Her small gestures of kindness reminded everyone that even in the darkest times, joy could be found in the simple things. Soon, tales of Marie's generosity with her bag...
Read more