Murli Manohar Joshi Advocates for Sanskrit as India's Official Language
Call for Sanskrit Promotion
On Monday, senior BJP leader Murli Manohar Joshi expressed that India should no longer be referred to as 'Vishwaguru' (world teacher). He emphasized the need to refrain from using this term, advocating instead for the promotion of Sanskrit and its application in fields like quantum computing. During a press interaction at the inauguration of the central office of Sanskrit Bharati, an organization affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Joshi passionately argued for making Sanskrit the official language of India. He noted that historical figures, including B.R. Ambedkar, had previously attempted to push for this, but their proposals were not accepted.
Modern Relevance of Sanskrit
Joshi shared his personal belief that the notion of being a world leader is outdated, stating, 'We are not currently a Vishwaguru. While we should aspire to be one, we are not there yet.' He highlighted the significance of Sanskrit in contemporary times and called for its integration into modern scientific endeavors, including quantum computing.
Cultural Heritage and Unity
He further remarked that if more activities in the country were conducted in Sanskrit, it would mark a significant achievement. Dr. Ambedkar had also aimed to establish Sanskrit as the national language during the drafting of the Constitution, asserting that Sanskrit is not only India's heritage but also a global treasure due to its ancient roots. Meanwhile, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat echoed Joshi's sentiments, advocating for the increased promotion of Sanskrit, stating that its growth would enrich all Indian languages and serve as a bridge among them, connecting people to India's ancient philosophies and culture.
Understanding India's Linguistic Diversity
Bhagwat emphasized the necessity of 'knowing and understanding' Sanskrit to keep India vibrant and progressive. He stated during the Sanskrit Bharati program that understanding Sanskrit is essential for comprehending India. He acknowledged that India is home to numerous languages, each of which can be considered a national language in its own right. However, he posed the question of what connects these diverse languages, answering that it is Sanskrit.