How many languages do people in India speak?

About 18 major languages and over 1600 regional dialects are spoken in India. Hindi is the official language, yet many people still need to talk about the language. English is widely spoken in the urban areas. States in India have their respective languages and dialects.

India is a diverse country. People practise different religions and follow various customs, and their cuisine differs from region to region. Language is no exception to this. Unlike many other countries, languages vary from region to region in India. People from northern India speak different languages than those in the south. Those living in Western India follow another set of languages, as do those residing in the Eastern part of India. This is what makes India unique.

The different languages in India have their historical genesis. They reflect the history, culture and sentiments of the people belonging to that particular region where they are respectively spoken. Let us have a look at the various languages spoken.

Major Indian Languages of India

• Hindi – This is the official language. It follows the Devnagiri script. It is mostly spoken in the North. Hindi cinema, or Bollywood, significantly influences Indian culture.
• English – This is spoken among the urbanities. It is a legacy left behind by the British. English in India blends with local dialects, creating unique variations.
• Kashmiri – This is spoken by the people living in Kashmir and by those who have migrated from Kashmir to other parts of India. The language is known for its rich collection of folk tales and songs.
• Rajashthani – This is spoken in Rajashthan. The folk music of Rajasthan is very famous. The language reflects the colourful culture of the state.
• Gujarati – In the state of Gujarat, people speak Gujarati. The Gujarati script is derived from the same Devanagari but with some modifications.
• Marathi – People from Maharashtra speak Marathi. Marathi plays and songs are very popular. It’s also the language of the esteemed Mumbai film industry.
• Punjabi – Those belonging to Punjab speak Punjabi. The songs of this region are very boisterous. Punjabi cuisine is as flavorful as its language.
• Bengali – Those residing in West Bengal speak Bengali. Many well-known poets and writers have made several contributions to this language. The language is deeply linked with the Bengal Renaissance.
• Assamese – In Assam, the people speak Assamese. Assamese literature has a rich heritage that dates back centuries.
• Manipur – This is spoken in the northeastern region of India. Manipuri dance and culture hold a significant place in Indian tradition.
• Oriya – This language is spoken in Orissa. Much literature and music has been rendered in this language. Oriya is noted for its classical and folk dance forms.
• Telugu – This language is spoken in Andhra Pradesh. Many literary works have been written in this language, and well-known poets have rendered songs in this language. Telugu is known for its rich historical drama and cinema.
• Tamil – In the Far South, this language is spoken by the Tamils. It is also rich in culture and is historically of much significance. Tamil literature is one of the oldest in the world.
• Malayalam – The people residing in Kerala speak this language. Malayalam is renowned for its contribution to poetry and film.
• Kannada – This language is spoken in Karnataka. It has a dynamic range of expressions suitable for intricate classical literature.
• Konkani – The language is spoken in Goa. Konkani is known for its distinct alphabet and is celebrated during the colourful Goan carnivals.
• Sanskrit – This ancient language is not spoken now, except it is used when reciting ancient literary texts or verses. Many sacred ceremonies are performed in this language. Sanskrit is considered the mother of many Indian languages.
• Urdu – This is widely spoken by the Muslims. Many songs and poems are rendered in this language. Many literary contributions have been made in Urdu. It is the state language of Jammu and Kashmir. Urdu calligraphy is a revered art form, reflecting the language’s poetic legacy.

India has much to offer to a tourist. Its diverse culture enthralls them. Despite the diversity of languages, India remains united.