URDU LANGUAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Urdu language, also commonly referred to as "Urdu," is an Indo-Aryan language primarily spoken in Pakistan and India. With roots in Persian, Arabic, and various regional languages, Urdu emerged as a distinct language during the 13th century in the Delhi Sultanate. It has since evolved into a major language of South Asia and is recognized as one of the 22 official languages of India.
Urdu is known for its rich literary heritage, blending elements of Persian and Arabic vocabulary with its own unique grammar and lexicon. It is written in a modified form of the Perso-Arabic script, called "Nastaliq," which is characterized by its elegant, curvilinear strokes. Urdu has a significant influence from Persian and Arabic, making it mutually intelligible with Hindi, another major language in the region.
The language is widely used in poetry, literature, and formal settings. It has produced renowned poets and writers who have contributed immensely to its development. Urdu's extensive use in Bollywood films and its prevalence in ghazals (a form of Urdu poetry) have further popularized the language across South Asia.
Urdu plays a vital role in cultural and social identity, serving as a medium of communication for millions of people. It also serves as a symbol of unity and diversity within the subcontinent.
Etymology of URDU LANGUAGE
The word "Urdu" is derived from the Turkish word "Ordu", which means "army" or "camp". The language got its name during the Muslim conquest of the Indian subcontinent in the 14th century when Turkish and Persian-speaking armies settled in the region. Over time, a mixture of local languages, primarily Hindi and Persian, evolved into what is now known as Urdu. The influence of Arabic and Sanskrit can also be observed in the vocabulary and grammar of the language.
