Research consistently shows that children who develop a strong foundation in their mother tongue are better equipped to learn additional languages.
A mother tongue is far more than a tool of communication; it is the living embodiment of a nation’s identity, culture, and collective memory. It is the first language a child hears—usually in the comforting voice of a mother—and through it, the child learns love, values, and belonging. In this sense, a mother tongue becomes not only a linguistic medium but also an emotional and cultural anchor that connects generations.
Every year on February 21, the world observes International Mother Language Day, a day dedicated to promoting linguistic diversity and protecting endangered languages. The observance was proclaimed by UNESCO on November 17, 1999, and later formally recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2002. The date commemorates the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh, during which many sacrificed their lives to defend their linguistic rights. This history reminds us that language is not merely a collection of words—it is a symbol of dignity, freedom, and self-respect.
In countries rich in linguistic diversity such as India, language forms a vibrant mosaic of identities. From the Dogri spoken in the Jammu region to Kashmiri in the Valley, and from Punjabi and Bengali to Marathi and Gujarati across other states, each language carries centuries of history and cultural expression. Together, they form a garland of heritage that strengthens the nation’s unity in diversity.
Yet, in today’s globalized and fast-paced world, many people feel hesitant to speak their mother tongue, often perceiving English or other international languages as markers of sophistication and progress. Undoubtedly, learning global languages is essential in an interconnected world driven by education, science, technology, and international collaboration. However, embracing global languages should not come at the cost of abandoning one’s own linguistic roots.
Research consistently shows that children who develop a strong foundation in their mother tongue are better equipped to learn additional languages. Early education in the native language enhances cognitive development, creativity, and confidence. When children understand concepts in a language they naturally grasp, their learning becomes deeper and more meaningful. Conversely, introducing complex subjects in an unfamiliar language at an early stage can hinder comprehension and weaken both linguistic and academic development.
The home environment plays a crucial role in preserving mother tongues. When parents converse with their children in their native language, they nurture not only vocabulary but also cultural continuity. Unfortunately, some families consider speaking a foreign language at home a matter of prestige. This often creates a generational gap, as grandparents may not share the same linguistic proficiency, leading to weakened family bonds and lost oral traditions.
A mother tongue is also a treasure trove of literature, poetry, folklore, and spiritual expression. The Kashmiri language, for example, is rich with Sufi poetry, folk songs, and narratives that embody the region’s spiritual and cultural ethos. When a language declines, so too does the heritage embedded within it. The erosion of language ultimately signals the erosion of culture.
Globally, hundreds of languages are at risk of extinction. If proactive measures are not taken, many could disappear within this century. Protecting mother tongues is therefore not solely the responsibility of governments or institutions; it is a shared duty of individuals, communities, educators, and media platforms.
Educational institutions should give rightful space to local languages in curricula, encouraging students to express themselves creatively in their mother tongues. Media outlets can play a transformative role by broadcasting quality programming in regional languages. In the digital era, social media offers unprecedented opportunities for young people to share poetry, stories, and videos in their native languages, thereby revitalizing linguistic pride.
It is essential to understand that learning additional languages enhances opportunity—it does not require sacrificing identity. Progress and cultural roots can coexist. One can be a global citizen while remaining firmly grounded in local heritage. This balance fosters a confident and resilient society.
International Mother Language Day should not remain a symbolic annual event. Instead, it should inspire year-round efforts to preserve and promote linguistic diversity. Let us encourage our children to take pride in their mother tongue, to see it not as a limitation but as a badge of honor.
Ultimately, a mother tongue is the voice of our history, the echo of our ancestors, and the foundation of our identity. Safeguarding it means safeguarding ourselves. It is both our heritage and our responsibility—and its preservation rests in our collective hands.
