Hindi Diwas 2024: Why We Celebrate India’s Official Language On 14th September

Hindi Diwas, celebrated on September 14, commemorates the adoption of Hindi as India's official language in 1949, promoting its usage and cultural significance.

Hindi Diwas is celebrated annually on September 14 to promote the Hindi language across India. Hindi is most widely spoken language in India and ranks third globally in terms of speakers.

The day marks the adoption of Hindi as the official language by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. This year, it commemorates 75 years since this significant decision.

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History of Hindi Diwas

The origins of Hindi Diwas trace back to 1949 when India's Constituent Assembly chose Hindi as one of the official languages. The first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, decided to observe September 14 as Hindi Diwas.

This date also celebrates the birth anniversary of Beohar Rajendra Simha, a notable scholar and poet who championed making Hindi the official language.

Mahatma Gandhi had earlier proposed making Hindi a national language in 1918 at the Hindi Sahitya Sammelan. The Indian Constitution, effective from 1950, allowed English to continue alongside Hindi due to objections from non-Hindi-speaking states.

Significance and Celebrations

Hindi Diwas honours the language and aims to popularise it among younger generations. Awards like Rajbhasha Gaurav Puraskar and Rajbhasha Kirti Puraskar are given for contributions to promoting Hindi.

Various literary and cultural events are organised in educational institutions on this day. Government departments and social organisations also hold events to celebrate the occasion.

Official Language Status

Article 343 (1) of India's Constitution states that Hindi in Devanagari script is the Union's official language. Despite this, both Hindi and English are used officially due to historical compromises.

The first official celebration of Hindi Diwas took place on September 14, 1953. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee made history by addressing an international audience in Hindi at the United Nations General Assembly in 1977.

Theme for 2024

Each year, a new theme highlights different aspects of Hindi's role in India's cultural and social fabric. The theme for Hindi Diwas 2024 has yet to be announced officially.

The celebration underscores that Hindi is not just a means of communication but also a symbol of cultural identity and national pride.