Which Indian languages are accorded the status of Classical Language?

Question

Which Indian languages are accorded the status of Classical Language?

1. A. Telugu
2. B. Marathi
3. C. Bengali
4. D. More than one of the above (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — More than one of the above

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is More than one of the above.

Key Points

• Telugu, Marathi and Bengali are all Classical Languages of India, so more than one option is correct.
• Classical Language status is conferred by the Union Government on the recommendation of the Linguistic Experts Committee under the Ministry of Culture.
• The tag brings scholarly benefits including international awards for scholars, a Centre of Excellence for Studies, and dedicated university chairs.
• Recognition came in stages: Tamil (2004), Sanskrit (2005), Kannada and Telugu (2008), Malayalam (2013) and Odia (2014).
• In October 2024, the Union Cabinet approved classical status for five more — Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali — taking the total to 11 Classical Languages.

Exam Tip

• learn this list in chronological order of recognition.
• BPSC and UPSC both prefer "which was recognised first / most recently" framings over plain listing, and Tamil being the first (2004) is the single most asked fact.

प्रश्न (हिन्दी में)

किन भारतीय भाषाओं को शास्त्रीय भाषा का दर्जा प्राप्त है?

1. A. तेलुगु
2. B. मराठी
3. C. बंगाली
4. D. उपरोक्त में से एक से अधिक