GS-1:Salient aspects of Art, Architecture, literature from Ancient to Modern Times;Salient features of Indian Society; Diversity of India;

In News:Marathi among 5 languages accorded ‘classical language’ status

1.Evaluate the historical significance of Pali and Prakrit languages in shaping the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical landscape of ancient India.

Pali and Prakrit, two ancient Indian languages,emerged as vital mediums for expressing the thoughts, beliefs, and practices of various communities, particularly in the context of Buddhism and Jainism and hence shaping the cultural, spiritual, and philosophical landscape of ancient India.

Cultural significance

1. Language of the masses:Prakrit languages were simpler than Sanskrit, enabling broader participation in cultural and religious dialogues, as seen in inscriptions and early literary works.
2. Literary contributions:Diverse Literary Forms: Prakrit served as a medium for poetry and drama, with works like Gaha Sattasa reflecting everyday life.
3. Representation of social classes:In Sanskrit dramas, characters from lower social classes often spoke Prakrit, highlighting its role in representing diverse voices within society .

Spiritual significance

1. Language of heterodox religions:Both Pali and Prakrit were used extensively in the texts of Buddhism and Jainism, making spiritual teachings more accessible to the masses. Pali is notably the language of the Theravada Buddhist canon (Tipitaka), which preserves essential teachings of the Buddha.
2. Documenting philosophical thought: Pali preserved Buddhist philosophy and ethics, enriching spiritual discourse.

Philosophical significance

1. Development of thought: Pali and Prakrit influenced each other, leading to a rich exchange of philosophical ideas.Nagarjuna’s Mulamadhyamakakarika further develops the concept of emptiness (śūnyatā) from various Pali texts.
2. Preservation of teachings:Pali texts ensured the continuity of Buddhist teachings, influencing spiritual practices across Asia. Ex:Visuddhimagga, a Pali text by Buddhaghosa, synthesises earlier teachings and has been influential in Theravada Buddhist practice across Asia.

Pali and Prakrit languages significantly shaped ancient India’s cultural, spiritual, and philosophical landscape. Their accessibility facilitated engagement with religious teachings, while their literary contributions enriched India’s heritage, continuing to influence modern languages today.

Source:

https://indianexpress.com/article/india/cabinet-classical-language-status-five-languages-marathi-bengali-9602341/
https://www.news18.com/explainers/whats-the-significance-of-classical-languages-in-india-how-marathi-got-the-status-criteria-explained-9073169.html