Table of Contents
Is Tamil an endangered language?
However, due to migration and lack of policy support, languages in Tamil Nadu are bearing the brunt of extinction. According to the People’s Linguistic Survey of India, Tamil Nadu has 17 dying languages, which includes Eravalla and Toda, and Kota languages, which are critically endangered.
Is Tamil a rich language?
Tamil language can claim a history of at least 2,500 years and this ancient language preserves a rich heritage in its Sangam Poetry and Thirukkural. The greatness and richness of Tamil Literature were respected by reputed foreign scholars like Fr. Beschi, G.U.
What are the dying language?
Definitely endangered – children no longer learn the language as a ‘mother tongue’ in the home….UNESCO languages by degress of endangeredness.
| Name in English | Number of speakers | Degree of endangerment |
|---|---|---|
| Mising | 550000 | Definitely endangered |
| Ossete | 550000 | Vulnerable |
| Mizo | 529000 | Vulnerable |
| Dargwa | 503523 | Vulnerable |
Why is Tamil considered as a classical language?
Tamil language. It has been described as “the only language of contemporary India which is recognizably continuous with a classical past.”. The variety and quality of classical Tamil literature has led to it being described as “one of the great classical traditions and literature of the world”.
What is the official language of Tamil in South India?
Tamil is the official languageof the South Indianstate of Tamil Nadu, as well as two sovereign states, Sri Lankaand Singapore. [10][11]In India, it is also the official language of the Union Territoryof Puducherry.
What is the meaning of the Tamil word ‘Tamil’?
V. Subramanian suggests the meaning “sweet sound”, from tam — “sweet” and il — “sound”. Old Tamil is the period of the Tamil language spanning the 3rd century BC to the 8th century AD. The earliest records in Old Tamil are short inscriptions from between the 3rd and 2nd century BC in caves and on pottery.
What is the earliest period of Tamil literature?
The earliest period of Tamil literature, Sangam literature, is dated from ca. 300 BC – AD 300. It has the oldest extant literature among Dravidian languages. The earliest epigraphic records found on rock edicts and ‘ hero stones ‘ date from around the 3rd century BC.