What is the origin of Punjabi language?

Asked 17-Jun-2018
Updated 21-Sep-2023
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The Punjabi language, also known as ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Gurmukhi script) or پنجابی (Shahmukhi script), traces its origins to the Indo-Aryan family of languages. It is primarily spoken in the northwestern region of the Indian subcontinent, which includes the Indian state of Punjab and parts of Pakistan. The history of Punjabi can be divided into several distinct phases, reflecting its evolution over the centuries.

1. Ancient Roots: Punjabi has ancient roots, dating back to the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE). During this time, it likely emerged as a Prakrit language, which is an early form of Indo-Aryan. It was influenced by Sanskrit and the local languages of the Punjab region.

2. Medieval Period: In the medieval era, Punjabi continued to evolve, influenced by Persian and Arabic due to the Islamic conquests of the region. This led to the incorporation of Persian loanwords and script elements into the language.

3. Guru Nanak and Sikh Influence: The development of the Gurmukhi script, attributed to Guru Angad Dev Ji, the second Guru of Sikhism, played a significant role in shaping Punjabi as a distinct written language. The Sikh Gurus, including Guru Nanak Dev Ji, composed religious texts and hymns in Punjabi, contributing to its literary richness.

4. Colonial Influence: British colonial rule in India introduced English and influenced various Indian languages, including Punjabi. The spread of Western education led to the adoption of English words and expressions into Punjabi.

5. Post-Independence Development: Following the partition of India in 1947, Punjabi underwent further changes in Pakistan and India. In India, the language was standardized and promoted as the official language of the Punjab state. In Pakistan, Punjabi was sometimes discouraged in favor of Urdu.

Today, Punjabi exists in two major scripts, Gurmukhi and Shahmukhi, primarily due to the religious and regional divide between India and Pakistan. It has a rich literary tradition, with notable Punjabi poets and writers who have made significant contributions to Punjabi literature.

The Punjabi language continues to thrive, with millions of speakers around the world, making it an integral part of the cultural heritage of the Punjab region and the Punjabi diaspora.