Languages and Literature of Haryana | HPSC Preparation: All subjects - HPSC (Haryana) PDF Download

Introduction

• Haryana is a state in India where people speak various languages, including Haryanvi, Hindi, Punjabi, Urdu and English. 
• Several dialects have also emerged and are spoken across Haryana. However, most of these dialects are based on Hindi, with a mix of Urdu and Punjabi. 
• Although English is spoken in urban areas, it is not widely used as a household language and is spoken in a blend of Hindi. 
• The distinct feature of Haryana is its language, known as Haryanvi, Bangaru, or Jatu. While it is considered somewhat crude, it is still a fascinating language with unique characteristics.

The Influence of Haryanvi Language on Other Indian Languages and Finnish Language

• Haryanvi language, spoken in the Indian state of Haryana, is believed to have been the original language of Aryans dating back to 1500 BC. It served as the foundation for Sanskrit and influenced many other Indian languages. 
• When Turkish and Persian invaders arrived in India, they developed modern Hindi by combining Persian with the base of the Haryanvi language. Despite foreign influences, Haryanvi language has retained its deep-rooted words and sustains itself with minimal outside influence. 
• Interestingly, some words in Haryanvi and Finnish languages share similarities, such as "Panna" (to wear), "Pallela" (cold), "Olla" (to be), "Minu" (to me), "Tinu" (to you), "Me" (we), and "Te" (you). Although there is no evidence of any historical connection between India and Finland, the similarity between these two languages suggests an ancient relationship. 
• Haryana has a distinctive literary culture as well. It was the birthplace of The Bhagwat Geeta, one of the most sacred religious texts for Hindus. This philosophical book provides guidance on how to relieve oneself from the pain of birth and death. 
• The Bhagwat Geeta is believed to be a sermon of Lord Vishnu and is considered to be the most widely read religious text in the world. Lord Krishna spoke The Bhagwat Geeta at Jyotisar, Kurukshetra, which is located in Haryana. 
• Moreover, Ved Vyasa compiled it on the banks of the river Saraswati, which was once a perennial river in this state. Therefore, the state of Haryana takes pride in being associated with the origin of The Bhagwat Geeta and the greatest philosophy of life, as Lord Krishna gave the supreme sermon to Arjuna on this land.

Overview of the Mahabharata

•  The Mahabharata, written by Veda Vyasa, is a long poem that depicts the essence of life, karma, and the duties of an individual. The poem is composed of sixteen chapters (Adhyayas) and is written in the form of Sanskrit hymns (shlokas). 
• Lord Krishna narrates to Arjuna how he should perform his duties and become a part of the ultimate soul. This epic is considered the longest epic in the world and is written in Sanskrit, the language of the Aryan race during historic times.
• Haryana has produced several renowned writers such as Chand Bardai, who became famous for writing "Prithviraj Raso," and Surdas, who wrote "Sursagar." In addition, Sant Haridas, Kavi Maldev, Jain poet Sunderdass, Nischal Das, Banwari Das, and Kavi Ummed are famous Hindi language literati who have made significant contributions to Hindi literature. 
• These poets and writers have enriched Hindi literature with their literary works. Muslim saints like Sheikh Abdul Qadoos, Sannat Sadullah, Sheikh Bahaudin Chisti, Nur Mohammad, and Jan Kavi Jisno also wrote in Hindi and Braj Bhasha and contributed to the world of Hindi literature.

Khwaja Altaaf Husain Haali: A Famous Urdu Poet from Haryana

• During the British rule in the unified state of Punjab, the literary activities suffered a setback due to the residents' struggle to liberate the nation from the British. However, a renowned poet of Urdu, Khwaja Altaaf Husain Haali, made his mark during this period. 
• He was born in District Panipat of Haryana and was a prolific scholar, Urdu critic, and famous poet. He had a good command over Urdu, Persian, and Arabic languages.
• Khwaja Altaaf Husain Haali's notable works include Tiriya ke Masmoon, Majaalis Ulnisa, Mazaamine-e-Haali, Haayaat-e-Saadi, Muqadam-e-Sher-o-Shairi, Yaadgar-e-gaalib, Deewan-e-Haali, and Roobaiyat. 
• His work Muqadam-e-Sher-o-Shairi and Yaadgar-e-gaalib, which were written as a preface to his collection of poetry, were highly appreciated. In fact, Mohammad Sarwar called Muqadam-e-Sher-o-Shairi "the first manifesto of Urdu poetry."
• Khwaja Altaaf Husain Haali composed a total of 116 gazals consisting of about 1300 shers. Even during the difficult times of the British rule, he contributed significantly to the world of Urdu literature with his writings.

Literary Personalities of Haryana

• Haryana has been home to numerous literary personalities who have contributed to Hindi, Punjabi, and Urdu literature. Deedar Singh, Bhai Santokh Singh, Sahib Singh Mrigendra, Bagg Singh, Ujjawal Singh, and Joginder Singh are some of the renowned literary figures who wrote in these languages. 
• Bishambar Nath Kaushik, born in Ambala Cantonment, was also one of the famous writers. Pt. Neki Ram Sharma, a writer from Bhiwani, started the Hindi magazine Sandesh. Tulsi Ram Sharma, also from Bhiwani, wrote Shyam Satsai and Satyagrahi, Prahlad. 
• Uday Bhanu Hans was the first-ever state poet of Haryana, and Bhai Parmanad, a renowned poet from Hisar, also played an active role in the Bhoodan Movement. Geminey Haryanvi, who wrote couplets and poems, also contributed to Haryanvi literature. Therefore, it can be concluded that the history of Haryana is enriched with valuable literary works.