Living the Lingua Franca

Did you know that over the ages, some Indian words have popped into the English language?  Have you heard of the word VERANDA or BUNGALOW?  Do you wish you could visit the JUNGLE or do you feel smug or snug as you pull on your English PYJAMAS?  These words have slowly, like dusk turning to dark, crept into the English language as we know it. 

Some people in India object to English being the Lingua Franca or common language.  I think this is partly due to the memory of British rule in India.  I believe whole-heartedly in swaraj and swadesh (self-rule and self-governance) and I also feel strongly in being able to speak an Indian language/mother tongue, but history is different and offers little choice.  It is irreversible and leaves its marks on all cultures.  England has been invaded by the Vikings, the Romans, and the French among many; thus, the English language contains words and derivatives from these cultures, too.  Just as the courtly language of India before the British invaded was Persian, the courtly language of medieval England was French.

In a country such as India where there are so many regional languages, it is English that unites individuals and not Hindi.  This is particularly true of the middle classes who work in international offices.  Outside India, Hindi is not really used.  Professionals, now have to know, perfect or learn English.   It has become a necessity because we live in a global environment.  English connects with everyone in India and in the world.  Even students are exposed to the language because of the explosion in the education sector, particularly with English medium schools.  Take a look at your book shelves; how many books do you have in Hindi and how many in English?  I am sure the latter outweighs the former.  All higher studies (apart from languages) are conducted in English.  Without a good knowledge of English, how will you conduct trade, administer law and government service?   English is absolutely necessary for anyone entering government services, trade or the legal profession. Lawyers cannot even plead in the upper courts without it.

I have always felt to change a system, takes time.  I am opposed to the “bull in a china shop” method.  To create change, a “softly, softly” approach is needed.   As India emerges as a global player, more and more Indian words will be added to the English language and we will have a happier medium where people will understand and appreciate the nuances of each language. 

But, you know, this is the age of convergence; if your child wants to look beyond the home shores, perhaps, to study abroad later, or to work in many countries while having a base in India, then you will have to assist them in being a global citizen.  

For that, your child will need to know the global language - WELL.