Introduction
When the state of Pakistan was set up, its constitution stated that Urdu was the national language. It was to be the symbol of unity between different regions of the new country. It was because the vitality of Urdu lies in its ability to adopt words from other languages in such a way as if they originally belonged to it.
Muslim State – Muslim Language
It has long been considered the language of the Muslims of the subcontinent, developed by combining many other languages. It became widely used in the Mughal period, but dates back as far as the era of the Sultans of Delhi. It is said that it first originated in North-West India when Persian, Turkish and Punjabi interacted with the local dialects of Delhi and the surrounding areas. At the end of thirteenth century the Muslim armies were using a common language to help people from different areas and languages to understand each other. This language eventually went through many stages of development to from what is now Urdu. It became widely spoken and understood in many different regions of the subcontinent.
Aid in Independence
In the twentieth century Urdu played a major part in the struggle for independence. The Muslim League aimed not only to defend the rights of Muslims, but also to protect the Urdu language. The British made English, the official language of the administration, but some of its educational institutions, such as Fort William College, took an interest in the Urdu language and promoted it. But after the war of Independence they lost every interest in Urdu.
Means of Brotherhood and Unity
People of Pakistan are one nation; therefore their thinking, aims and objectives are common. Their progress and prosperity depends upon their unity and brotherhood. An important factor for achieving this unity and brotherhood is Urdu.
Source of Expression
Urdu has become a source of expression, feeling, thoughts and aspiration. People of two different areas can easily understand each others ideas and thoughts by Urdu.
Means of communication and co-ordination
Urdu serves as a means of communication and is a binding force between the old four provinces of Pakistan. People living in different provinces realize that in spite of speaking different languages they are joined together by one national language which id the heritage of all.
Medium of Instruction
Urdu language is the medium of instruction in most of the educational institutions of Pakistan. History, Islamic Studies, Political Sciences and other subjects are all taught in Urdu even up to the Masters level. Lectures on Islamic education and religion are also delivered in Urdu throughout Pakistan.
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