Before decision to notify Pali as a classical language, six Indian languages have been notified as classical languages by the Government of India. These languages are recognized for their rich heritage, ancient origins, and significant contributions to Indian culture and literature. The six classical languages are:
- Tamil (notified in 2004)
- Sanskrit (notified in 2005)
- Kannada (notified in 2008)
- Telugu (notified in 2008)
- Malayalam (notified in 2013)
- Odia (notified in 2014)
These languages meet the criteria set by the Government for a classical language, which includes having a rich body of ancient literature, antiquity over 1,500-2,000 years, and a cultural heritage that is distinct and valuable.
The notification of Pali as a classical language by the Government of India holds significant cultural, historical, and academic importance. Here are the key aspects of its significance:
1. Recognition of Ancient Heritage: Pali, the language of the early Buddhist scriptures, is closely associated with the teachings of Gautama Buddha and the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Its recognition as a classical language acknowledges the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of India, particularly its contribution to the spread of Buddhism across Asia.
2. Promotion of Scholarship and Research: The classical language status brings increased funding and academic support for the study and preservation of Pali. Scholars, linguists, and students interested in ancient Buddhist texts and Indian philosophical traditions will benefit from more resources, opportunities, and institutional support for research in Pali literature and its historical context.
3. Preservation of Ancient Texts: Many important Buddhist texts, including the Tipitaka (the Pali Canon), are written in Pali. These texts form the foundation of Buddhist philosophy, ethics, and monastic practice. Recognizing Pali as a classical language helps ensure that efforts will be made to preserve, digitize, and translate these ancient manuscripts for future generations.
4. Boost to Buddhist Studies and Cultural Exchange: As a classical language, Pali could inspire greater interest in Buddhist studies globally. It can also lead to enhanced cultural and academic exchanges between India and other countries, particularly in Southeast Asia and Sri Lanka, where Theravāda Buddhism and Pali are highly revered.
5. Cultural Identity and Inclusivity: Recognizing Pali highlights the linguistic and cultural diversity of India. It underscores India’s historic role as a center of learning, particularly during the Buddhist era, when it was home to renowned universities like Nalanda, where Pali was a key medium of instruction.
Overall, the notification serves as a recognition of India’s ancient intellectual and spiritual traditions, while promoting the preservation of a language that is vital to understanding the history and teachings of early Buddhism.
