Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his 129th edition of the popular radio programme Mann Ki Baat, on Sunday highlighted the global significance of India’s regional languages and lauded initiatives that are helping preserve linguistic and cultural heritage among younger generations abroad. In his address to the nation, the Prime Minister drew attention to Tamil Day celebrations in Fiji and the Kannada Pathshala initiative in Dubai, noting the enthusiasm and pride of children and communities in promoting their mother tongues across borders.

Tamil Day Celebrations in Fiji: A Platform for Cultural Pride

The Prime Minister recounted the first-ever Tamil Day celebration held last month in the Rakiraki region of Fiji, an event organised by a local school to connect students with the Tamil language and culture. Speaking to listeners, PM Modi said, “A commendable initiative is underway in Fiji to promote the Indian language and culture. Continuous efforts are being made at various levels to connect the new generation there with the Tamil language.”

He highlighted how the students actively participated in the celebrations, reciting poems, delivering speeches, and performing on stage, showcasing not only their linguistic skills but also their cultural understanding. “The day provided children with a platform to express their pride in their language openly. They recited poems, gave speeches, and confidently showcased their culture on stage,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister emphasised that these initiatives are not just about language but about fostering a sense of identity and connection to Indian heritage among diaspora communities. He pointed out that the celebrations in Fiji are part of a broader effort to ensure that children living far from India remain rooted in the country’s rich linguistic and cultural diversity.

Tamil as the World’s Oldest Language and Kashi Tamil Sanagamam

Hailing Tamil as the oldest language in the world, PM Modi also highlighted initiatives taking place in India itself to encourage learning and appreciation of the language. In particular, he praised the Kashi Tamil Sanagamam in Varanasi, which this year laid special emphasis on promoting Tamil language education among students in the city.

“This year, during the ‘Kashi Tamil Sanagamam’ in Varanasi, special emphasis was placed on learning Tamil. Under the theme, ‘Learn Tamil-Tamil Karakalam’, special campaigns were run in more than 50 schools in Varanasi,” he said, noting that such programmes are fostering enthusiasm among children and youth. “I am happy that today, in other parts of the country as well, a new attraction toward the Tamil language is visible among the youth and the children. This is the power of language. This is Bharat’s unity,” Modi observed.

The first phase of Kashi Tamil Samagam 4.0, held from December 2 to 15, included a range of immersive activities to help students develop practical knowledge of the language and culture. Around 300 students from Varanasi travelled to Tamil Nadu to experience the language and its heritage firsthand, while 50 teachers from Tamil Nadu introduced Tamil language and cultural elements in schools across Kashi. According to the Prime Minister, such exchanges provide children with both linguistic skills and a broader understanding of India’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Kannada Pathshala in Dubai: Preserving Language in a Globalised World

In addition to recognising Tamil language initiatives, PM Modi also drew attention to the Kannada Pathshala in Dubai, describing it as an innovative model for diasporic language preservation. The initiative was born out of concern among Kannada-speaking families living in the UAE about the potential erosion of linguistic skills among their children. “Kannada families living in Dubai asked themselves an important question: ‘Our children are thriving in the tech world, but are they drifting away from their language?’ This is where ‘Kannada Pathshala’ was born,” the Prime Minister said.

The initiative focuses on teaching children to read, write, speak, and understand Kannada, ensuring that they remain connected to their linguistic roots even while growing up in a foreign environment. By creating structured lessons and activities, Kannada Pathshala has allowed children to gain confidence in their mother tongue and develop a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage.

The Prime Minister emphasised that such efforts are not merely about preserving languages but are instrumental in fostering identity, confidence, and a sense of belonging. “Language is more than words; it is the carrier of culture, tradition, and identity. When our children learn their mother tongue, they also learn their history, values, and the essence of who they are,” Modi said.

The Power of Language in Building Unity and Cultural Pride

Through his remarks, PM Modi underscored the broader significance of linguistic preservation in strengthening social and cultural cohesion, both within India and among diaspora communities. Highlighting examples from Fiji, Varanasi, and Dubai, he portrayed language as a tool that transcends borders and connects people to their roots, while simultaneously fostering unity among diverse communities.

He further observed that these initiatives demonstrate how even in the age of globalisation, where exposure to multiple languages and cultures is inevitable, mother tongues continue to play a central role in shaping the identity of young individuals. “This is the power of language. When children learn their mother tongue, they carry forward the legacy of our ancestors. They take pride in their culture, their history, and their traditions,” he said.

Global Recognition of Regional Languages

PM Modi’s remarks also highlighted India’s soft power and the global appreciation for its regional languages. The Tamil Day celebrations in Fiji and the Kannada Pathshala in Dubai illustrate that Indian languages and culture are not confined to national borders. Through these initiatives, children in far-flung parts of the world are able to stay connected with India’s heritage, learn about its history, and celebrate their roots alongside peers and communities.

The Prime Minister lauded the educators, parents, and community leaders who have taken the initiative to create platforms for children to engage with their languages meaningfully. He pointed out that these efforts contribute to a wider movement of cultural diplomacy, strengthening India’s image as a country proud of its diversity and committed to preserving its linguistic heritage.

Conclusion: Language as a Bridge Between Generations and Borders

PM Modi’s discussion of Tamil Day in Fiji and Kannada Pathshala in Dubai reflects a vision of language as a unifying force, capable of bridging generations and geographies. By encouraging children to engage actively with their mother tongues, these initiatives not only preserve linguistic traditions but also nurture cultural pride, self-confidence, and a sense of belonging.

In his address, Modi reinforced the idea that language is central to India’s identity, describing Tamil and Kannada as emblematic of the country’s rich heritage and timeless cultural values. Whether through immersive programs in India or diasporic schools abroad, the Prime Minister’s message was clear: preserving and celebrating India’s regional languages is crucial for fostering unity, pride, and continuity across generations.

Through these examples, the Mann Ki Baat episode once again underscored the importance of the “power of language” as a tool for education, cultural preservation, and national integration. By promoting initiatives such as Tamil Day celebrations in Fiji and Kannada Pathshala in Dubai, India continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing linguistic diversity and connecting global communities to their roots.