Hindi Must Be a “Living Expression” of Cultural Identity, Says Education Minister

PATNA – State Education Minister Mithilesh Tiwari called for a renewed commitment to the Hindi language on Thursday, urging citizens and officials alike to move beyond formal usage and embrace the language as a vital component of India’s national identity.

Speaking at the inauguration of “Hindi Pakhwada 2026” held at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Patna, Minister Tiwari emphasized that the language should not be restricted to government files or ceremonial functions. Instead, he argued, it must serve as a “living expression” of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

A Language of Emotion

Addressing a gathering at the institute’s Senate Hall, the Minister described Hindi as more than just a medium of communication. “Hindi is not just a word; it is an emotion that connects us with our motherland,” Tiwari stated. He urged the academic community and the public to take greater pride in India’s linguistic roots, positioning Hindi as an essential emotional and cultural bond that bridges regional divides.

Highlighting the growing global stature of India, the Minister underscored the power of the language on the international stage. He pointed to historical precedents, such as the landmark United Nations General Assembly addresses delivered in Hindi by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. He also cited Swami Vivekananda’s iconic 1893 speech in Chicago as a testament to the enduring impact of India’s cultural and linguistic identity when projected to the world.

Beyond Compliance

The sentiment was echoed by IIT Patna Director T.N. Singh, who joined the Minister in advocating for a shift in perspective regarding language promotion. “The soul of Hindustan resides in Hindi,” Singh remarked, asserting that the goal of the fortnight-long event is to encourage the adoption of Hindi as a way of life rather than a matter of mere procedural compliance.

The “Hindi Pakhwada” (Hindi Fortnight) celebration will feature a series of activities and workshops aimed at promoting the use of Hindi in both official documentation and everyday communication, fostering an environment where the language can thrive in professional and academic settings.

The call for linguistic revitalization comes as part of a broader push to integrate traditional Indian values and languages into the modern academic curriculum, ensuring that the next generation remains connected to their cultural roots. For more details on the event and the minister’s address, you can read the full report on the cultural identity of the language in the modern era.