Urdu & Regional Languages of Pakistan

1. Q Why was Urdu chosen as the national language of Pakistan? [7] (J2004)
2. Q How important was the development of regional languages to Pakistan between 1947 and 1988? Explain your
answer. [14] (N2004)
3. Q Why did Pakistan choose Urdu as its national language? [7] (N2005)
4. Q `The promotion of regional languages in Pakistan between 1947 and 1988 has been more successful than the
promotion of Urdu.' Do you agree? Explain your answer. [14] (J2006)
5. Q `Sindhi was promoted more than any other regional language between 1947 and 1988'. Do you agree or
disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [14] (N2007)
6. Q Explain why Urdu was chosen as the national language of Pakistan in 1947. [7] (J2008)
7. Q Has the promotion of Urdu been more successful than that of any regional language in Pakistan between 1947
and 1988? Explain your answer. [14] (J2009)
8. Q Why have regional languages been promoted by the Pakistan government since 1947? [7] (N2009)
9. Q How has the Pakistan government promoted the development of Balochi since 1947? [4] (N2010)
10. Q `Punjabi has been promoted more than any other Pakistani regional language between 1947 and1999.' Give
reasons why you might agree and disagree with this statement. [14] (J2011)
11. Q Explain the choice of Urdu in 1947 as the national language of Pakistan. [7] [W 2011]
12. Q How has the Pakistan government promoted the development of Punjabi? [4][W 2012]
13. Q Why have regional languages been promoted by the Pakistan government since 1947? [7] [S 2013]
14. Q How successful has the promotion of the following regional languages been in Pakistan between 1947 and
1999?:
(i) Punjabi
(ii) Pushto
(iii) Sindhi
15. Explain your answer with reference to all three of the languages. [14] [S 2013]
16. Q How has Pakistan promoted the development of Sindhi since 1947? [4] [W 2013]
17. Q Why was Urdu chosen as the national language in Pakistan in 1947? [7] [S 2015]

Punjabi

History of Punjabi Language

Punjabi is an ancient language spoken in the most populous provinces Pakistan. We do not exactly know how and
where this language came into being. Many experts trace its origin to the ancient Dravidians of Harappa civilization
(2500 BC) others relate it with the period of Mahmud of Ghazna which is approximately 1000 AD. Generally Baba
Farid-ud-Din Ganje-Shaker is known to be the first Punjabi poet.
Punjabi is the local language of the province of the Punjab which is the biggest province of Pakistan with regard to
population and development. It has its links with the Aryan language Prakrit. Before partition it was spoken in Delhi,

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Dhirpur, Peshawar, NWFP and Azad Kashmir too. It has different dialects in different parts of Punjabi like Saraiki and
Potohari but the basic language remains the same.
Forms & Script
Kafi, War, Dhola, Doha, Tappa,Mahiya, Satthani, Boli, Lori, Ghazal are famous forms of Punjabi. It was written in
Gurmukhi script, but during the later years of the Mughals, Arabic script was used. However as time rolled on the
vocabulary of Punjabi language became a mixture of Persian, Arabic and Turkish words.
Various Names
Punjabi is a very simple language and easy to understand. It was given various names during different periods of history.
Famous historian Masoodi called it Multani while Al-Beruni used the name of Al-Hindi for it. The famous Sikh religious
leader Baba Guru Nanak gave it the name of Zaban-e-Jattan. In the NWFP it was known as Hindko. Hafiz
Barkhurdar was the first person to use the name of Punjabi for this language in the first half of 17th century in his book
entitled Miftah-ul-Fiqah.

Famous Punjabi Poets

Baba Farid-ud-Din Ganj Shakar is known as the first Punjabi poet who wrote in religious terms. Madholal Hussein, Sultan
Bahu, Bullhay Shah, Waris Shah, Hafiz Barkhurdar are other famous poets who wrote much of the mystic literature.

The art of storytelling also holds a special place in Punjabi poetry. The popular among them are the stories of Waris
Shah’s Heer Ranjha, Hashim Shah’s Sassi Punnu, Fazal Shah’s Sohni Mahiwal, Hafiz Barkhurdar’s Mirza Sahiba. The
stories in poetry depict the picture of social, religious and economic life of Punjab. Novels were also written in Punjabi
Language. The popular writers are Dabir Singh, Meran Singh, Sayedan Bux Minhas.

Progress& promotion of Punjabi Language

Punjabi was spoken and understood in the eastern part of the Punjab before& after partition. After Independence concrete
steps were taken for the promotion and development of this language which made it a popular language in other parts of
the province. The Government is still making efforts for the progress of Punjabi language and extending support to those
institutions which are striving for its development. At present the Punjabi literature is taught up to Ph.D level in Pakistan.
One of the new literary activities was the verified translations of the Holy Quran rendered by Muhammad Ali Faiq.
Writers like Munir Niazi, Ashfaq Ahmed and Ahmad Rahi contributed after the partition. Books on academic subjects
have been produced and are also introduced in schools and colleges. CSS exams are available in Punjabi. Radio, TV and
stage dramas are equally promoting Punjabi language. Newspapers like Jung Nama, Punjabi Adab and Lahrain are being
published.

Urdu

Urdu; National Language of Pakistan; a brief history

After independence Quaid-e-Azam said in clear cut words that the National Language of Pakistan would be Urdu. He said
“Let me make it clear that the National Language of Pakistan is going to be Urdu and no other language.
Without one state language no nation can remain tied up solidly together.”

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Historical Evolution of Urdu

Urdu evolved over a period of centuries by cultural exchange between local people of north of Sub Continent and
Muslims of Arabia, Iran and Turkey. The script of Urdu is modified form of Persian. Urdu is a word of Turkish language
and its literal meaning is camp.

Origin of Urdu; different views of the linguistics

 According to Sayyad Sulaiman Nadvi’s opinion, Urdu is the developed form of Sindhi.
 Hafiz Mahmood Sherani coordinates Urdu to Punjabi.

 Dr.Naseer-ud-Din terms South India to be the home of Urdu.

 Maulana Muhammad Husain Azad traces the origin of Urdu into Persian.
Other linguists believe that Brij Bhasha, spoken in the suburbs of Delhi is the mother of Urdu.

Urdu the language of the saints

The Sufi saints were the earliest promoters of the Urdu. In the later period Urdu was adopted as the language of the
religious literature. Shah Ismail Shaheed’s “Taqviatul-Iman” and Shah Abdul Qadir and Shah Rafi-ud-Din’s translations
of the Holy Quran are the excellent pieces of fluent and easy to understand Urdu literature.
Fort William College Calcutta
Fort William College Calcutta was established by the British rulers in the year 1800, basically for the fulfilment of their
colonial needs. The college hired the Services of the renowned Urdu writers to write books in simple, standard Urdu.
These books were taught to the British officers and played an important role in the enrichment of the Urdu literature.

Urdu in the mid of nineteenth Century

Traditional Urdu poetry reaches its peak with the verses of Ghalib. During the last three decades of the 19 th century, the
activities of Urdu poetry were influenced by the towering personality of Syed Ahmed Khan (1817-98) who started the
Aligarh movement inspired by Raja Ram Mohan Roy.
Urdu in the twentieth century

 Altaf Husain Hali (1837-1914) is the actual innovator of the modern spirit in Urdu poetry. Hali’s works include
Diwan-e-Hali, and Musaddas-e-Haliwas the “pioneer of modern criticism”. His Muqaddama-e-Sher-o-Shaeriis
the foundation stone of Urdu criticism.

 Shibli Nomani (1857) is considered as the father of modem history in Urdu. He has produced several works based
on historical research, especially on Islamic history, like Seerat-un- Nabi (PBUH) (1892) and Al Faruq (1899).

 Other leading poets of modern period include Sayyad Akbar Husain Akbar Allahabadi (1846-1921), who had a
style for informal composition of satiric and humorous verses.

 Allama Muhammad Iqbal is also the renowned poet of this era. He used his poetry to inspire the spirit of
Islamism in the Muslims of India.

 Urdu was for, the first time, adopted as the medium of instruction for higher level of education by a Modem
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 University established at Hyderabad, in the year 1920.

Since Urdu had emerged as a symbol of the Muslim nationhood in the subcontinent during the days of the Muslim
struggle for freedom, with the creation of Pakistan a golden era in the history of Urdu ushered.
Efforts of the Government of Pakistan to Promote Urdu after independence

1. Urdu dictionaries and grammar guides published

2. Books of different languages translated into Urdu and vice versa
3. Compulsory subject in all schools in Pakistan
4. Medium of instruction in most schools
5. Attempts to bring Urdu as official language replacing English
6. Taught in universities and MA available
7. Medium for radio, newspaper and TV programs as well as news channels
8. Urdu plays, films and novels produced regularly
9. Newspapers such as Jang Nama and Nawa-e-Waqt published
Reason; Why was Urdu chosen as national language/characteristics of Urdu language

1. Great Power of Absorption

The strength of Urdu lies in its ability to adopt words from other languages in such a way as if they originally belonged to
it. The chief reason for its country wide popularity was its power of absorption. Still now Urdu has great affinity for many
other words and ideas which increases its beauty.
2. Source of National Identity
National language is the identity of a nation. When we are abroad we are identified as Pakistani because of our national
language. That is why, every nation gives out respect and importance to national language.
3. Rich Treasure of Prose and Poetry
The Urdu language possesses a very valuable treasure of poetry and prose. The poets and writers have contributed their
most in its development. Maulana Shibli Nomani, Maulana Hali, Deputy Nazir Ahmed, Mirza Ghalib, Amir Khusro and
many others adopted this language in their poetry and writings. Sir Syed wrote for the re-awakening of the Muslims of
Sub Continent.

4. Urdu - An Important Part of Our Cultural Heritage

Urdu grew in popularity and by the later Mughal Period and the advent of the British, it had been adopted by the Muslims
and the Hindus alike. It would not be wrong to say if it is said that: “Urdu is a part of our Cultural Heritage”.
5. Means of Brotherhood and Unity
People of Pakistan are one nation; therefore their thinking, aims and objectives are common. Their progress and prosperity
depends upon their unity and brotherhood. An important factor for achieving this unity and brotherhood is Urdu.
6. Source of Expression
Urdu has become a source of expression, feeling, thoughts and aspiration. People of two different areas can easily
understood each other ideas and thoughts by Urdu.
7. Means of Communication and Co-ordination
Urdu serves as a means of communication and is a binding force between all the four provinces of Pakistan. People living
in different provinces realize that in spite of speaking different languages, they are joined together by one national
language which is the heritage of all. It is also known as Lingua Franca; means the labguage that is understood by all
parts of a country.
8. Source of Unity

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The national language creates a feeling of unity and national cohesion. People living in different provinces realize that in
spite of speaking different languages people lke to speak Urdu language.

9. Role in Pakistan Movement

In the early stages of Pakistan Movement, Urdu was the most favoured language. Urdu created unity among the people.
Many Muslim leaders like Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, Allama Iqbal, Hasrat Mohani, Allama Shibli Nomani, Quaid-e-Azam
and many others favoured Urdu. Sir Syed established scientific society that translated modern books of other languages
into Urdu and it caused a valuable addition in the assets of Urdu language.
10. Close resemblance with regional languages
Urdu has a very close resemblance with all the regional languages of Pakistan. Many words used in these languages are
common and all these languages are written in the same script.

11. Rich Treasure of Islamic Literature

In the history of South East Asia, Islam Pakistan and Urdu have been so closely related to each other that none of these
can be supposed to flourish and prosper independently. Urdu has a very rich treasure of Islamic literature. We cannot
achieve the ideological objectives of our state unless we give Urdu the status it really deserves.

12. Conclusion
Being the national language of the country it is the binding force in different parts of Pakistan. The officers have
adopted Urdu language in their official work and the Government has published a dictionary contained Urdu terms for
the office work. The Urdu Development Board and "Anjuman-e-Taraqi-e-Urdu" are trying to give Urdu a place in society
and it is hope that Urdu would find its place in society within short period of time.Although Urdu has been declared the
official and national language of Pakistan, yet the regional languages have never been neglected.

Balochi

Balochi is the regional language of Balochistan. It is the least developed of all the regional languages. It was spread by
Baloch tribes migrated from Iran. Bloch’s were divided into clans and tribes a few centuries back and had all the
characteristics of the pre-islamic Arab society. Every tribe had its own poet who recomposed exaggerated accounts of the
expeditions the valiant young heroes of the tribe had accomplished triumphantly. These were known as Qasidas. They
also condemned the enemy in poems called Hajve. Since Balochs did not know the art of writing and they had no script,
the poetry so created was not written; it just passed down by word of mouth and has almost been forgotton with the
passage of time.
Literature produced by earlier poets has no record as it is preserved traditionally in the memories of the people. No
newspapers or books were published in Balochi up till 1940.

Kinds of Balochi poetry

Linguists believe that Balochi belongs to the family of Aryan languages. We can divide Balochi poetry into four kinds.
1. Epics; poems about the history pedigree and lineage of the Baloch tribes.
2. Narratives of wars that took place between the tribes.
3. Romantic poems and lyrics, ghazals ethical poems and brief poems.
4. Elegies (marsia) and long narratives of events in poetry.

Dialects of Balochi
Sulemani and Makrani are two main dialects of Balochi language.

Golden Period in the history of Balochi Literature

Nineteenth century deserves to be called the golden age in the history of Balochi literature. Kalhore rulers were great
patrons of letters and literature. Balochi literature also benefited from this. Persian impact during this period further
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intensified. Mirza Ghulam Muhammad Natiq Makrani is the most eminent poet of this age; he was a contemporary of
Mirza Asadullah Khan Ghalib. During this period Leich, Mayer, Longworth Dames, Jamait Rai and Hetu Ram collected
compiled and published Baloch ballads and other literary works.

Literary Works
Meer Chakar and Hammal Rind are the most celebrated of the classical Balochi poets. Haani Shah Murid is an excellent
Balochi classic. Sayyid Muhammad Taqi Shah Taib, Mast Tavakkali and Gul Muhammad Zaib are rated very high
amongst the classical Balochi poets. Mir Muhammad Anqaa mid twentieth century poet rendered meritorious services for
the cause of Pakistan. Most notable amongst the modern Balochi writers and poets are Muhammad Ramazan, Gul Khan
Naseer and Azad Jamal-ud-Din.

Script
History of the Balochi script which is based on Arabic letters is not very old. Standard Balochi script was finalised after
the creation of Pakistan by amending the script already in use.

Balochi Literary Association

The Balochi literary Association was set up which published many magazines and articles in Balochi language. A weekly
magazine known as "Nan Kessan" was published. A monthly known as "Olassis" was also published.

Promotion of Balochi Language

The Balochi literature was on the verge of decline before partition. After partition, however it received little boost when
Radio PakistanKarachi began its broadcast in Balochi language. Balochi programmes were relayed from Radio Pakistan
Karachi which enhanced the developmental process of Balochi language.With the establishment of Quetta Television
Station the Balochi language has received great boost.Translation of the Bible has also been published in Balochi
language. Balochistan university has established a Balochi Language department since its establishment for the promotion
of language upto master degree level.

Pushto

Historical Background
Pushto or Pukhto is the regional language of the K.P.K and tribal areas. The people who speak Pushto are called
Pukhtoon or Pushtoon. Pushto took birth nearly five thousand years back in the Afghan area known as Bakht or Bakhtar
and derived its name after it, originally known as Bakhtu. This language later come to be known as Pushto.
Pashto originates itself from eastern Iranian language branch, but it has also borrowed words for over two thousand years,
from languages such as Greek, Arabic, Persian and some Indian languages. By the end of the 14 th century, the Pashto
language had absorbed more explicit external influences.

Dialects of Pashto
There are three major dialects of Pushto:
1. Western Pashtowhich is spoken in Afghanistan,
2. Eastern Pashto which is spoken in north eastern Pakistan.
3. Southern Pashto, spoken in Baluchistan

Pashto Script
Pushto was lettered in Kharoshti script before the arrival of the Muslims in the Sub-Continent. Saifullah devised a script
for it, he also wrote a book Tazkira-tul-Aulia. Pushto alphabets are now 43 in number.

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 Pashto in Afghanistan
Pashto became prominent after the creation of the Afghan state in the 18 th century. In 1936, Pashtu was declared the
national and official language of Afghanistan, and instruction in it is now compulsory. There are over 9 million speakers
of Pashto in Afghanistan.
The national poet of Afghanistan
Ahmad Shah Abdali, founder of the modern Afghan nation, was himself a poet. The Pashto Academy publishes a variety
of literary works.
The national poet of Afghanistan, Khushha1 Khan (l613-94), wrote forceful poetry of great charm. He also wrote books
on medicine, philosophy and ethics.

Folk Poems in Pushto

Besides stories set to music, Pushtoon has thousands of two and four line folk poems, traditionally composed by women.
These reflect the day-to-day life and views of Pushtoon women.

Famous PushtoPoets

Amir Karor
He wrote PattaKhazana, the first book of Pushto poetry in the second half of the 8th century.
Khushhal Khan Khatak
Khushhal Khan Khatak was the greatest poet of Pushto. He was himself a warrior also.
He said:
“Those moments are memorable for Khushhal when there is music of swords and iron coverings”.
Khushhal khan Khatak wrote on different aspects of life in his poetry. The important topics of his poetry are Ishq-e-
Hakeeki, Ishk-e-Majazi, war, spirituality, nature, prestige and bravery.
Rehman Baba
Rehman Baba is also the great poet of Pushto language. He was a Sufi poet and he laid emphasis on spirituality and love.
He is a milestone in Pushto poetry.

Mullah Maqsood
He wrote folk songs in Pushto language.
Noor-ud-Din
Noor-ud-Din also wrote folk poetry like Char baitey, tobey and Nemkaietc.
Pushto Prose
The Pushto prose started developing in the 20th century. Now because of the media, Pushto prose had developed a lot.
Now short stories, novels, plays, grammar, essays, and criticism is also composed in Pushto poetry.

Four Phases of Pushto Literature

Pushto literature can be divided into following four phases:

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  First Phase (between 8thand 15th century AD)
Amir Kror was born. Qasidas of Gias-ud-Din Bulban and Sher Shah Suri were composed and Bayazid Ansari, a
famous poet, lived during this period.
 Second Phase (between 16th century to 17th century AD)
Renowned Pushto writer BayazidAnsar and AkhundDerwezza belong to this age. Living Pushto legends Khushhal
Khan and Rehman Baba also composed during this period.
 Third Phase (between 17thand 18th century)
 Fourth Phase (between 18thcentury to date)
Pushto literature produced in this age is dominated by anti imperialistic sentiments of love of freedom
and discontentment and revolt against the oppressive foreign rule. During the Indo-Pak war 1965,
Pushto poets and writers produced effective national literature especially poetry.
Promotion of Pushto Language
Although Pushto is an old language but its literature is comparatively new one. After independence education spread
rapidly and Pushto literature received a great boost. The Pushto Academy Peshawar and other literary societies and
educational institutions such as Islamia College (Peshawar) helped the growth of Pushto literature. The government
formed Pushto Academy in 1954 for the promotion of this language. Regular programes and features are relayed from
radio Pakistan & Pakistan televsision in pushto. Pushto dictionary was also prepared by Pushto Academy. Pushto
magazines and newspapers are also being printed. Pushto literature received a great boost after independence. The
Peshawar University and Islamia College Peshawar have contributed a great deal for the promotion and progress of this
language.
Sindhi

Prof. Max Muller is of the opinion that Sindhi was born even before Sanskrit which is generally held to be the most
ancient Indian language. He expressed his opinion in his famous book “Biography of Words”. He says that the people
living on both sides of the river Indus as early as BC 2000 spoke Sindhi.
Indus Valley Civilization
Relics found at Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro reveal that the people of the old Indus valley civilization knew the art of
writing and from this we infer that old Sindhi did have a script, but we do not know for sure what it really was like. Sindhi
script now in use, was devised by AbulHasan Sindhi on the basis of Arabic letters.
Literary Assets
Sindhi is first language in South Asia the Holy Quran was translated into. Chach Nama is one of the immortal works of
the Sindhi literature. Period between 1050 and 1350 is marked with a prolific production of religious literature in Sindhi
language. Preachers of the Ismaili sect played important role in the progress of Sindhi literature ginan, bait, sortthe and
gatha are the forms they introduced.

It was strongly influenced by Arabic as its script was changed from “Marwari” and “ArzNagri” to Arabic, just a couple of
centuries after the Arab Muslims reached Sindh, 712 onwards. It is a very ancient language and dates back to 12 th century.

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 The Origin of Sindhi Language
The origin of this language is not exactly known.It appears that Sindhi was spoken in the Indus Delta from time
immemorial. However travelers like Al-Beruni have told us about the original script of the language. With the advent and
influence of Arabs in the Sub Continent Sindhi changed its form and adopted maximum words of Arabic and also of
Persian and Turkish.
Sindhi is related to “Indo Arean” languages. After the coming of Arabs, a great number of Arabic, Persian and Turkish
words were added to Sindhi.

Dialects of Sindhi
Sindhi spoken in different parts of Rajisthan, Sindh and Baluchistan is identified with different names, literary and formal
Sindhi standard is sahti. Dialects spoken in the lower Sind and Rajasthan are known as lari, kachi, katthiwari and thari.
Similarly jogali, gandavi, fikri, lasi, kaichi, lari and cheni are the Sindhi dialects used in different parts of Baluchistan.
Other famous accents are kohistani, Siraiki and vicholi.
Famous Sindhi Poets
Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, Sachal Sarmast, Makhdoom Muhammad Hashim. Makhdoom Muhammad Hashim wrote 150
books which are a part of the curriculum of Jamia-tul-Azhar University Cairo Egypt. During British time period Mirza
Qalich Beg (1855-1929) is another name, he wrote some 400 books covering a variety of subjects.Sheikh Ayaz, Prof,
Karim Buksh Nizamani and Asad-ullah Bhutto are the most remarkable.

Promotion of Sindhi Language

Sindhi is the medium of education in Sindh upto Matric standard. Sindhi literature Board was set up in 1948 for the
promotion of this language. Bazm-e-Talib-ul-Maula and Sachal Sarmast Academy were founded and a number of
compilations and works of great Sindhi writers have been published. Radio & Television have also contributed much to
the progress of Sindhi language. Sindhi newspapers and magazines are very popular in the province and have a wide
circulation. Muhammad Bin Qasim Literary Society is rendering good services to Sindhi language and literature by
publishing valuable books on social sciences and literary themes as well Sindhi renderings of the important books of other
languages. A number of institutions working under official patronage have done commendable service by preserving
classical Sindhi literary assets in modern forms.

Languages are developed for various reasons, and they play a crucial role in human communication and expression.
Here are some key reasons why languages are developed:

1. Communication: The primary purpose of language is to enable communication between individuals and groups. It
allows us to convey thoughts, ideas, emotions, and information to others, fostering social interactions and
cooperation.
2. Expression of Thoughts and Emotions: Languages provide a means for individuals to express their feelings,
opinions, and experiences, which helps in building relationships and understanding one another.
3. Cultural Identity: Language is a fundamental aspect of cultural identity. Different communities and regions often
develop their unique languages, reflecting their history, values, and traditions.
4. Preservation of Knowledge: Through language, knowledge is passed down from one generation to another. Oral
traditions and written records enable the preservation and transmission of information, history, and cultural heritage.
5. Problem Solving and Coordination: Languages are essential for coordinating group activities and problem-solving.
They facilitate collaboration, planning, and organization within societies.
6. Intellectual Development: Language is instrumental in cognitive development. It allows humans to think abstractly,
formulate complex ideas, and engage in critical thinking.

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7. Innovation and Creativity: Language facilitates creativity and innovation. It enables the sharing of ideas, sparking
new perspectives, and inspiring advancements in various fields.
8. Adaptation to Environment: Languages evolve to adapt to the changing needs and environment of the speakers.
As societies encounter new challenges, their language may evolve to accommodate these changes.
9. Trade and Commerce: Language is essential for conducting trade and commerce between different regions and
cultures. It enables negotiation, agreement, and understanding in economic interactions.
10. Social Cohesion: A shared language fosters social cohesion within a community or nation. It promotes a sense of
belonging and unity among its speakers.

Overall, language development is a dynamic process influenced by cultural, social, and historical factors. As human
societies evolve, so do their languages, continuously shaping and enriching the way we communicate and interact
with one another.

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