Surrounded by the borders with Afghanistan and Iran, the rough terrains of Balochistan have the echoes of Balochi and Brahui language, the two traditional languages of the province, that are heard in the beautiful scenery of Balochistan. These languages have a cultural link along with their linguistic diversity that enriches the Baloch traditions. These languages with their history try to integrate the Baloch and Brahui people that incarcerates the collective voices for the linguistic preservation as we celebrate the International Mother Language Day.
International Mother Language Day is celebrated worldwide on 21st of February proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to preserve the linguistic diversity existing in the world and promote the protection of all languages. This day sets as the reminder of languages that have been the drivers of different cultures and traditions and serve as the foundational stone for the preservation of human heritage, promoting tolerance in the world with mutual respect. This day has its importance in preserving the very fragile languages of the world and providing awareness that the mother tongue is not only a language but a set of cultural transition from one generation to another that can’t be forgotten.
The Balochi and Brahui language has been echoing for centuries from the rigged mountains of Balochistan. There echoes not only serve as a means of communication but also as the carriers of centuries of traditions, folklore, and wisdom along with them that are not restricted to Balochistan but also spills into Iran and Afghanistan as well. The language reflects the complexities of the terrains of Balochistan where there has been external conquerors and internal evolutions happening in the area that disturbs the existing notions of life, yet the Baloch and Brahui people have kept their linguistic traditions preserved and intact with the cultural and moral values. These two languages are not mere languages but also the shapers of the rituals and aspirations of the two communities.
A significant amount of Balochi and Brahui speakers exist in Balochistan that makes them one of the significant languages of Balochistan. The Baloch and Brahui people should try their best to keep preserving their languages as these will be the drivers of the generation to come towards their own identity and culture. Along with it, the other languages used in Balochistan should also be given their due respect and they should also be preserved for the inclusivity of the region.
The International Mother Language Day also sets to be the day of mother tongue, Balochi, and Brahui, above all other difficulties and challenges to document their significance in sustainable development of the language and community. The day expresses the linguistic rights and duties for the preservation of the centuries old languages that carry their traditions with themselves. By preserving these languages, the inclusivism in the society will increase and it will foster the social fabric of the society.
As the International Mother Language Day has been celebrated, it is high time that we should focus on the preservation of all the languages that exist in the society. Preserving the Balochi and Brahui language is also important for the preservation of the culture and traditions of these communities. By encouraging them to promote their native language and introducing inclusivity in the society, we can create a better society. We should celebrate these words and emotions as a collective vow, to protect and nurture the future of our upcoming generations that they too be able to form their identity based on their culture and traditions entrenched in their language.
