The controversy officially began in 1867 when Hindu leaders in Banaras (Varanasi) launched a movement to replace Urdu with Hindi as the primary official language of the region.
502
In which year did the British Government introduce Urdu as an official language in the subcontinent?
In 1832, the British East India Company replaced Persian with Urdu as the official language of the lower courts and administration in northern India, acknowledging Urdu's widespread use and popularity.
503
The establishment of which institute is considered the first practical step taken against the Urdu language?
The Banaras Institute is historically viewed as the first practical institutional effort to undermine Urdu's status. It served as a hub for Hindu intellectuals who wanted to replace Urdu with Hindi in the Devanagri script.
504
In which year was the Banaras Institute established, marking a significant turn in linguistic politics?
The Banaras Institute was established in 1861. It played a pivotal role in the early organized efforts to promote Hindi at the expense of Urdu, setting the stage for future communal and linguistic tensions.
505
Which Muslim leader rendered the most valuable services for the development and protection of Urdu during the 19th century?
Sir Syed Ahmed Khan was a staunch advocate for Urdu. He recognized that the language was not just a means of communication but a symbol of Muslim identity and cultural heritage in the subcontinent.
506
What was the alternative name for the Urdu language during its formative years?
Urdu was frequently called 'Lashkari' because it was the language of the 'Lashkar' (army). It served as a common medium of communication among soldiers of diverse ethnic backgrounds in the Mughal camps.
507
In which famous historical book was the word 'Urdu' used for the first time?
The word 'Urdu' was first used in the 'Ain-e-Akbari', written by Abu'l-Fazl, the court historian of Emperor Akbar. The term originally referred to the royal camp or 'Ordu'.
508
Urdu is described as an 'amalgamation' of which group of languages?
Urdu developed as a synthetic language, drawing its vocabulary and grammar from Arabic, Persian, Turkish, and the local Hindi (Khari Boli) dialects spoken around Delhi and the northern plains.
509
Approximately how many years old is the Urdu language considered to be in the context of South Asian history?
Urdu is considered to be approximately 400 years old. It developed as a unique linguistic blend during the Mughal era, facilitating communication between the ruling elite, the military, and the local population.
510
Which language was enforced as the official language in all the provinces under Congress rule from 1937 to 1939?
The Congress ministries promoted Hindi as the official language and the medium of instruction in schools. This was seen as an attempt to displace Urdu, which had a deep cultural and historical association with the Muslims of the subcontinent.
