FREE IGNOU BEGC-132 SOLVED ASSIGNMENT 2022-23

Question 6: Hindi/Hindavi

Hindi/Hindavi is a historical language that played a significant role in the development of modern Indian languages, particularly Hindi and Urdu. The term “Hindavi” is often used to refer to the vernacular language spoken and written in the northern regions of India during the medieval period. As time passed, this language gradually evolved into two distinct forms: Hindi and Urdu. Let’s explore the characteristics and evolution of Hindi/Hindavi:

1. Historical Context: During the medieval period (around the 12th to 18th centuries), Hindavi emerged as a common language of communication among people living in the northern parts of the Indian subcontinent. It was heavily influenced by Persian, Arabic, and other regional languages.
2. Literary Usage: Hindavi was widely used in poetry, literature, and cultural expressions during the medieval era. It was favored by Sufi poets, Bhakti saints, and other literary figures to communicate with the masses.
3. Persian Influence: Due to the influence of the Delhi Sultanate and later the Mughal Empire, Persian vocabulary and poetic forms were integrated into Hindavi, enriching its literary tradition. This blend of Persian and local elements laid the foundation for the development of Hindi and Urdu.
4. Bhakti and Sufi Poetry: Hindavi served as a medium for the expression of Bhakti and Sufi ideas, with poets like Kabir, Guru Nanak, and Amir Khusrau using it to compose their devotional and mystical verses.
5. Divided Evolution: As time passed, Hindavi began to diverge into two distinct forms based on regional influences and religious affiliations. In the North, it evolved into the language we now know as Hindi, which incorporated more Sanskrit elements and was written in the Devanagari script. In the Deccan and other regions, it transformed into the language we now know as Urdu, which was influenced by Persian and Arabic and written in the Nastaliq script.
6. Colonial Era: During British colonial rule, the distinction between Hindi and Urdu became more pronounced due to political and religious factors. Hindi was promoted among Hindus, while Urdu was associated with Muslims. This led to the formalization and standardization of both languages.

Today, Hindi and Urdu are recognized as two separate languages, but they share a considerable linguistic and literary heritage rooted in Hindavi. Despite the script and some vocabulary differences, Hindi and Urdu speakers can often understand each other due to their common historical roots.

In summary, Hindi/Hindavi was a historical language that acted as a bridge between Persian and regional languages, laying the foundation for the development of Hindi and Urdu. Its literary richness and cultural significance continue to influence both languages, making it an essential part of India’s linguistic and literary heritage.