Dogri pride essential for preserving linguistic heritage: Dr Jitendra Singh

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Monday participated in the celebrations of Dogri Manyata Diwas, emphasising that it is the esteem of linguistic pride that sustains a language and its legacy, an assertion that applies equally to Dogri.

While government patronage is essential, active engagement from civil society is equally important, he said, citing the example of the Bangla language and its sustained richness.

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The Minister urged people from all walks of life to take pride in Dogri ethos, language, and cultural heritage. He stressed that language is not merely a medium of communication but a core component of culture and identity.

Dr Singh highlighted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, this is one of the most favourable periods for Dogri to reclaim its legacy and pass it on to the next generation, integrating it into the mainstream journey of India’s growth story. The Modi government, he said, gives high priority to the promotion of regional languages.

Congratulating all stakeholders on the successful observance of Dogri Manyata Diwas, Dr Singh said that such socially driven initiatives, undertaken with enthusiasm and commitment, are highly commendable.

He noted that the celebration was made possible due to the dedicated efforts of the organisers and the collective contribution of the Dogra community.

The Minister further stated that the government has been consistently promoting diverse cultural initiatives across the country, with special focus on regional languages. He encouraged people to take full advantage of these efforts to protect cultural heritage and preserve linguistic traditions.

“Government works for welfare, but society must also take ownership,” he said, adding that local communities, civil society, and other stakeholders must work together to strengthen cultural roots.

Drawing parallels, Dr Singh cited the example of the Bangla language, which flourished due to strong societal foundations. He recalled the influence of stalwarts like Rabindranath Tagore, noting that even colonial influence could not dilute Bengali linguistic identity despite Calcutta being the British capital for many years.

The Minister stressed that a language survives when people internalise it as a matter of pride. He added that the youth must play a proactive role in its preservation, staying connected to their roots while adapting the language to contemporary contexts.

He called for constructive and independent efforts to develop the Dogra language and legacy, urging people to take pride in their heritage while remaining mindful of future trends—echoing the words of Syama Prasad Mukherjee.

Highlighting the role of the younger generation, Dr Singh suggested reaching out to Gen Z Dogra children through the communication mediums they relate to most.

The event concluded with a renewed collective resolve to safeguard, promote, and celebrate the Dogri language and its cultural heritage with commitment and pride.