Classical Language

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What is a Classical language?

The government of India started giving the status of ‘Classical language’ since 2004. It was first given to Tamil in 2004, Sanskrit in 2005, Kannada and Telugu in 2008, Malayalam in 2013, Odia in 2014. Criteria for a language to be considered for classification as a "Classical Language”:
  • High antiquity of its early texts/recorded history over a period of 1500–2000 years; 
  • A body of ancient literature/texts, which is considered a valuable heritage by generations of speakers; 
  • The literary tradition be original and not borrowed from another speech community; 
  • The classical language and literature being distinct from modern, there may also be a discontinuity between the classical language and its later forms or its offshoots.

What are the benefits of “Classical Language” tag?

As per Government of India's Resolution No. 2-16/2004-US(Academies) dated 1 November 2004, the benefits that will accrue to a language declared as a "Classical Language" are:
  • Two major international awards for scholars of eminence in Classical Indian Languages are awarded annually.
  • A Centre of Excellence for Studies in Classical Languages is set up.
  • The University Grants Commission will be requested to create, to start with at least in the Central Universities, a certain number of Professional Chairs for Classical Languages for scholars of eminence in Classical Indian Languages.