BJP Veteran Murli Manohar Joshi Champions Sanskrit as India's Official Language, Critiques 'Vishwaguru' Label
In a significant address, BJP veteran and former Union Minister Murli Manohar Joshi has called for the promotion of Sanskrit as India's official language, emphasizing its relevance in modern fields like quantum computing. Speaking at the inauguration of the central office of Sanskrit Bharati, an affiliate of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Joshi made a strong pitch for the ancient language, highlighting its global heritage and scientific potential.
Questioning India's 'Vishwaguru' Status
When asked about India's role in promoting Sanskrit amid its emergence as an AI hub and the common reference to the country as a 'vishwaguru' (global teacher), Joshi expressed a critical view. "The notion that we are a 'vishwaguru'... I personally believe nowadays that we should refrain from using this term. We are not 'vishwaguru' at present. We should aspire to be 'vishwaguru'," he stated. He acknowledged that India once held this status but stressed that the current reality does not justify the label, urging a focus on achieving it through efforts like promoting Sanskrit.
Sanskrit's Significance in Modern Science and Technology
Joshi elaborated on the importance of Sanskrit, describing it as not just India's heritage but a global asset. "Sanskrit is the oldest language. It is also the language of knowledge and science. It is the language of spirituality. It is also the language of technology. Sanskrit is the very 'prana' (life force) of Bharat," he said. He pointed to its potential in cutting-edge fields, noting that experts at NASA have recognized Sanskrit as highly significant for computing. "In what is currently termed quantum computing, Sanskrit will hold paramount importance," Joshi asserted, suggesting that adopting Sanskrit as the language for computing could be an unprecedented contribution from India.
Historical Efforts and the Push for Official Language Status
Joshi highlighted past attempts to make Sanskrit India's official language, mentioning that many people, including B.R. Ambedkar, had advocated for it during the drafting of the Constitution. "When the Constitution was being drafted, Dr Ambedkar, too, made an effort to make Sanskrit India's official language. Several individuals put forward proposals to this effect. However, the proposals were not passed," he explained. He emphasized that this historical desire underscores the need to revive the effort, aiming for a future where the majority of work in India is conducted in Sanskrit.
Call to Action for Youth and Global Benefits
In his concluding remarks, Joshi urged people, especially the youth, to learn Sanskrit and engage with its rich literature. He believes that such efforts will not only benefit India but also have positive impacts worldwide, reinforcing the language's role in fostering knowledge and innovation. This call aligns with his vision of using Sanskrit to propel India toward reclaiming its 'vishwaguru' status through cultural and scientific advancements.
