Language, Culture and Ideology of Pakistan

IMPORTANCE OF URDU AS BASIS OF NATIONAL UNITY

Importance of a Language

1.    Language plays a significant role in the development and progress of nations. Language is the leading media of communication which makes it convenient for us to accomplish our objectives of human prosperity and well-being. Collective ideology and interests can only be understood and safeguarded by the help of common language. Urdu is the national language of Pakistan and thus carries immense importance for every Pakistani.

History

2.   Urdu is nearly 300 years old and was considered as the language of the Muslims from the very beginning because of its origin. The blending of Arabic, Persian and Turkish gave birth to a new language which was called Hindustani, Shahjahani and finally as Urdu. Gradually the new language became the media of communication of the people of sub-continent. They adopted this language for the expression of their social, cultural and regional feelings and emotions.

Urdu in Pakistan

3.    After Independence, Urdu became the national language f people and a symbol of unity between the different regions of Pakistan. It became the media of expression in all parts of the country. Lectures on Islamic education and religion are delivered in Urdu throughout Pakistan. The religious leaders, mystics and Sufi poets spread the light of Islam in sub-continent with the help of Urdu. The translation and Tafseer of ‘Holy Quran’ and ‘Hadith’ have been produced in Urdu language in great numbers to enable the Muslims to understand them properly. In this way Urdu language has played a pivotal role in keeping the Muslim nationhood intact.

A Medium of National Cohesion:

4.   Having close resemblance and common vocabulary, Urdu in Pakistan has become key  to the national cohesion and unity. Urdu language is the medium of instructions in all Government schools in Pakistan. Political Science, History, Islamic Studies and many other subjects are taught up to the Masters level in the Urdu language. The Government is making systematic efforts to impart advanced education in science and technology in Urdu language.

A Platform of Inter- Regional Communication:

5.  Urdu is the only common language serving as medium of communication between different regions and linguistic groups of Pakistan. No other language can take this important role

Instrument of National Integration:

6.  Urdu has become the symbol of national unity and solidarity. It represents the common culture, heritage and identity of Pakistan. It is close to the hearts of all Pakistanis as it played an important role in the struggle for freedom from the supremacy of the British and subjugation of Hindus.

Promoter of Cultural Unity:

7.   Urdu with the passage of time has developed into a vast language. It is a progressive language and has adopted many good words from other international languages. After the emergence of Pakistan, a great deal of work has been done for the progress of Urdu language. The Urdu language has crossed its evolutionary stages after the Independence and is now on its way to the road of progress and development. Each Pakistani feels proud of speaking, reading and writing Urdu. Being the national language of the country, it is the binding force between different parts of Pakistan.

A Source of Promoting Patriotism:

8.   Urdu has always been a great source of promoting sense of patriotism and national unity. The higher spiritual, cultural and ideological goals can not be achieved without giving Urdu its due status and significance as it deserves. It has helped the Muslims of Pakistan in understanding their religion, culture and civilization to a great deal.  Urdu is the sole preserver of our religious values and principles.