Languages and Literature of Telangana | Telangana State PSC (TSPSC): Preparation Course - TSPSC (Telangana) PDF Download

Introduction

Formation of Telangana

• Telangana emerged as the 29th state of India on June 2, 2014, making it the youngest state in southern India.
• It spans an area of 112,077 square kilometres with a population of 35,193,978 as per the 2011 census.
• Telangana shares its borders with Maharashtra, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Andhra Pradesh.

Historical Background

• Historically, Telangana was part of the Telugu-speaking region of the princely state of Hyderabad under the rule of the Nizam of Hyderabad.
• Telangana has been a melting pot of diverse languages and cultures, exemplifying India's composite culture and inclusiveness.

Cultural Significance

• Telangana's cultural landscape is enriched by various art forms that have evolved over time.
• The art forms, such as 'DhoomDham' and 'ChinduBhagavatham,' showcase the region's unique identity and heritage.

Historical Significance

• Throughout history, the development of society's literature, culture, and heritage has been closely tied to the commitment of its rulers.
• Support and encouragement from rulers have been pivotal in fostering growth in these areas.
• The culture and literature of indigenous Telangana have often been overlooked.
• Political empowerment and government initiatives are crucial to preserving Telangana language, literature, traditions, and cultural identity.
• Efforts are needed to restore the glory of Telangana history to protect the self-respect of its poets, writers, artists, and leaders.

Language

• The official language of Telangana is Telugu, also known as Tenugu.
• Telugu is considered an ancient language, with roots dating back to 400-100 BC as evidenced by discoveries in Bhattiprolu, Andhra Pradesh.
• With a history spanning over 2000 years, Telugu uses a script derived from Brahmic scripts.

Current Status

• Telugu is spoken in multiple states and is one of India's official languages.
• Approximately 74 million people across India speak Telugu, making it the third most spoken language in the country.
• While other languages in Telangana have Sanskrit influences, Telugu retains more Sanskrit features in its pronunciation.
• Local communication in Telangana includes languages like Lamabadi, Kannada, Gondi, and Marathi.

Urdu Language

• Urdu is the second most spoken language in Telangana, with 12% of the population using it.
• In 2015, the Telangana government elevated Urdu to the status of the First Language, alongside Telugu.
• Students now have the option to choose Urdu as their primary language in both schools and higher education institutions.

Telangana Language Day

• Telangana Language Day is celebrated on September 9 every year to promote the Telugu language.
• This day honors the renowned poet and writer Kaloji Narayana Rao.

Literature of Telangana

• The history of Telugu literature dates back to A.D. 500, with early inscriptions.
• Nannaya's Mahabharata, written in 1030 A.D., is considered the starting point of Telugu literature.
• The 12th and 13th centuries witnessed the influence of the Lingayata school of thought on Telugu literature.
• Prominent poets like Jakkana, Potana, and Gaurana contributed significantly to Telugu literature in the 14th and 15th centuries.

Modern Telugu Literature

• The modern Telugu literature movement began with the establishment of Andhra Jana Sangam in 1921.
• Efforts were made to establish libraries and promote literacy in the Telangana region.
• Vattikota Alwarswamy, known as the Father of Telangana Grandhalaya Udyamam, played a key role in the library movement.
• Initiatives like village and mobile libraries were introduced to enhance access to books and literature.

Telugu Language Awards

Telugu holds significant recognition through prestigious awards and initiatives that promote its rich heritage:

B.N. Sastry Memorial Award

The B.N. Sastry memorial award plays a crucial role in fostering Telugu language:

• Initiated by the Telangana government to promote and propagate Telugu language.

Department of Languages and Literature of Telangana

The department plays a pivotal role in nurturing Telugu literature and maintaining literary standards:

• It serves as the state authority dedicated to the advancement of Telugu literature.
• Facilitates the establishment of high literary benchmarks.
• Coordinates efforts across various departments to uphold these standards.