Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel highlighted the significance of honoring one’s mother tongue while respecting other languages during a state-level event on the eve of International Mother Language Day. He expressed that pride in one’s mother tongue, coupled with respect for other languages, embodies the essence of Indian culture. Patel stressed the importance of language, stating that it symbolizes knowledge and enables the expression of emotions and sensitivities.
At the Mother Language Festival organized by the Gujarat Sahitya Akademi, Patel emphasized the need to preserve language and culture for future generations. He referenced Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on the unparalleled importance of mother, motherland, and mother tongue. The Chief Minister commended individuals who take pride in their mother tongue, considering it a matter of honor.
During the event, literary honors were bestowed, with Praveen Darji receiving the Sahitya Gaurav Award for Gujarati language in 2024, and Mavji Maheshwari honored for Kutchi language. Additionally, Ajay Soni and Dipak Nanda were recognized with the Yuva Gaurav Awards for their contributions to Gujarati and Kutchi literature, respectively. Patel underlined the mother tongue as a representation of collective identity and self-respect, fostering similar values through various initiatives.
Folk singer Kirtidan Gadhvi, present at the event, highlighted the significance of respecting and cherishing one’s mother language. He noted that the awards ceremony had inspired young artists to further their literary endeavors. The program, attended by Minister of State for Sports, Youth Services, and Cultural Activities Jayram Gamit and Gujarat Sahitya Akademi Chairman Bhagyash Jha, also saw the simultaneous release of 51 books.
