The World’s Largest Free Encyclopedia

WIKIPEDIA 

In the era of the internet, when information travels faster than ever, one platform has become synonymous with learning, research, and curiosity — Wikipedia. Whether it is a school project, general knowledge research, or a quick look-up about a historical figure, Wikipedia is the first destination for millions worldwide. But what exactly is Wikipedia? How did it start? Who founded it? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this giant of information.

What Is Wikipedia?

Wikipedia is a free, online, multilingual encyclopedia that anyone can read — and almost anyone can edit. It contains millions of articles that cover virtually every topic on Earth: science, history, geography, arts, sports, culture, current events, biographies, and more.

The purpose of Wikipedia is simple yet powerful:

to make knowledge freely available to every person on the planet.

The name “Wikipedia” is formed from:

Wiki – a website where users can collaboratively edit content

Encyclopedia – a reference book covering all branches of knowledge

Thus, Wikipedia is a collaborative encyclopedia built “by the people, for the people.”

How Is Wikipedia Created?

One of Wikipedia’s most unique features is that it is written and maintained by volunteers from across the world — students, teachers, experts, hobbyists, and everyday readers who share an interest in knowledge.

These volunteers, known as Wikipedians, write new articles, update facts, correct mistakes, add references, translate content, and monitor accuracy.

Because of this collective effort, Wikipedia is constantly growing and improving.

Why Is Wikipedia Free?

Wikipedia is run by the Wikimedia Foundation, a charitable, non-profit organisation.

It accepts no advertisements and no subscription fees. The entire platform functions through donations from users who believe in open, accessible education.

This makes Wikipedia one of the most democratic and inclusive sources of knowledge ever created.

History of Wikipedia

Before Wikipedia, the founders began an online encyclopedia called Nupedia in 2000.

Nupedia articles were written by scholars and passed through a lengthy expert-review process. Although high in quality, the process was slow — only a few articles were completed.

To speed up the creation of content, the founders launched a new idea in 2001: an encyclopedia that anyone could contribute to instantly. This new platform was named Wikipedia.

Wikipedia grew so fast that it soon overtook Nupedia entirely. By 2003, Wikipedia had become one of the fastest-growing repositories of knowledge in history.

Founders of Wikipedia

Wikipedia was founded by two Americans:

1. Jimmy Wales

Internet entrepreneur

Strong advocate of free and open knowledge

Considered the "public face" of Wikipedia

Co-founded the Wikimedia Foundation

Jimmy Wales believes that information should be accessible to everyone, regardless of background or financial conditions.

2. Larry Sanger

Philosopher and project developer

Co-founded Wikipedia and helped design its early guidelines

Came up with the name “Wikipedia”

Suggested using a “wiki” model so people could edit collaboratively

Together, Wales and Sanger built the foundation for a platform that would change global learning forever.

Why Wikipedia Became a Global Success

Wikipedia succeeded because it combined several revolutionary ideas:

Anyone can edit: Knowledge is not locked behind experts alone.

Free to access: Every reader is equal.

Neutral point of view: Articles must remain unbiased.

References required: All information must come from reliable sources.

Constant updating: Volunteers keep information current, often faster than news sites.

Today, Wikipedia exists in more than 300 languages and contains over 60 million articles, making it the largest encyclopedia ever created.

How Students and Teachers Can Use Wikipedia Wisely

Begin research with Wikipedia to gain a clear overview.

Use the references at the bottom for deeper study.

Explore linked topics for broader understanding.

Use images and diagrams with proper credits.

Always cross-check important facts with reliable sources.

Wikipedia is an excellent starting point for learning — not the final destination.

Conclusion: Wikipedia stands as a powerful symbol of collective learning. It proves that when people come together to share knowledge, they can build something extraordinary. What began as a small experiment in 2001 has grown into a global treasure — a living library that never closes, never stops updating, and never stops teaching.

Whether you are a student, teacher, researcher, or curious reader, Wikipedia opens a door to endless learning, completely free of cost.

Do You Know?

● Wikipedia was launched on 15 January 2001.

● It has over 60 million articles worldwide.

● The English version alone has more than 6.8 million articles.

● It is among the top 10 most visited websites in the world.

● Anyone can edit Wikipedia — but all edits are monitored.

● The content is available under Creative Commons license, meaning it can be reused with proper attribution.

● The word wiki comes from the Hawaiian word “quick.”

India’s First Line of Defence

BORDER SECURITY FORCE (BSF)

The Border Security Force (BSF) is one of India’s most important paramilitary forces. It plays a crucial role in protecting the nation’s borders and maintaining peace and security. Known as “India’s First Line of Defence,” the BSF guards international borders, prevents illegal activities, and supports the country during emergencies.

Formation and Purpose

The BSF was established on 1 December 1965, after the Indo-Pakistan war, when India realised the need for a permanent and strong border-guarding force. Before this, border protection was mainly done by state police, which was not enough during times of conflict.

The main purpose of forming the BSF was to:

● Ensure peace and security along India’s borders

● Stop illegal entry and smuggling

● Protect the nation during war and internal disturbances

● Build trust and cooperation with people living in border areas

Where the BSF Works

The BSF guards India’s borders with:

● Pakistan (over 3,300 km)

● Bangladesh (over 4,000 km — the longest border India has)

● These borders include deserts, rivers, forests, and densely populated villages. BSF personnel perform their duty in all kinds of challenging situations — from the scorching heat of Rajasthan to the marshy lands of West Bengal.

Key Duties of the BSF

1. Border Protection

The primary duty is to prevent illegal activities such as:

● Smuggling

● Human trafficking

● Illegal immigration

● Infiltration by terrorists

The BSF uses watchtowers, fencing, floodlights, CCTV cameras, drones, patrol vehicles, and dog squads to monitor the borders day and night.

2. Combating Terrorism and Infiltration

BSF plays a vital role along sensitive sectors of the border by:

● Detecting tunnels

● Catching infiltrators

● Preventing cross-border firing

● Responding quickly to security threats

3. Peacekeeping During Emergencies

The BSF also assists state police and government agencies during:

● Riots

● Natural disasters

● Elections

● VIP security

● Search and rescue operations

4. Marine and Air Wings

The BSF has:

● A Water Wing to guard riverine and coastal areas

● An Air Wing for transport, surveillance, and rescue operations

● Special Camel Contingents in Rajasthan

● Motorboat teams for difficult river borders

● Artillery and engineering units for high-risk zones

BSF’s Humanitarian Role: The BSF is not only a security force; it also works for the welfare of people living in border villages. They organise:

● Free medical camps

● Sports events

● Educational programmes

● Community support during floods or storms

● This helps build trust and ensures cooperation between citizens and the force.

Women in BSF: The BSF proudly includes women personnel who serve in combat roles, border patrol, and specialised units. Many women officers now lead battalions and take part in prestigious events such as the Republic Day Parade and Beating Retreat Ceremony.

Motto and Values: The motto of the BSF is:

“Duty Unto Death”

This reflects their courage, dedication, and willingness to protect the nation at any cost. BSF personnel are known for their discipline, integrity, and tireless service.

Conclusion: The Border Security Force is a symbol of strength, sacrifice, and commitment. By guarding India’s international borders, preventing threats, and supporting the nation during crises, the BSF plays a vital role in maintaining national security. Their bravery and dedication make them true guardians of the nation.

Celebrating Cinema, Culture and Creativity

INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OF INDIA (IFFI)

The International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals. Held every year, it brings together filmmakers, actors, writers, and cinema lovers from all over the world. IFFI is not just a festival of movies—it is a celebration of creativity, cultural exchange, and the power of storytelling.

A Glimpse into Its History: IFFI was first held in 1952, making it one of the oldest film festivals in Asia. The Government of India organised it with the aim of showcasing the best films from India and abroad, and helping Indian cinema grow on the global stage.

In 2004, IFFI found a permanent home in Goa, which has hosted the festival every year since then. The beautiful beaches, vibrant culture and festive atmosphere make Goa the perfect venue.

What Happens at IFFI?

IFFI is more than just film screenings. It is a week-long cinematic celebration that includes:

1. Film Screenings

Films from different countries are shown in various categories—feature films, documentaries, short films, children’s films, and many more.

2. Indian Panorama

This is a special section dedicated to the best of Indian cinema in various languages, showcasing the diversity of filmmaking in India.

3. Masterclasses and Workshops

Renowned filmmakers, actors and technicians conduct sessions where students and film lovers can learn about cinematography, acting, editing, music, and direction.

4. Red-Carpet Events and Award Ceremonies

Celebrities attend premieres, interact with fans, and the best films and artists are honoured with prestigious awards.

Why Is IFFI Important?

● It promotes Indian cinema globally.

● It brings world cinema to Indian audiences.

● It encourages young filmmakers and gives them a platform.

● It strengthens cultural ties between countries.

● It supports creativity, innovation, and exchange of new ideas.

Awards Presented at IFFI

Some major awards include:

● Golden Peacock Award – Best Film

● Silver Peacock Award – Best Director, Best Actor/Actress

● ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal – Film promoting peace and harmony

● Special Jury Award – For outstanding artistic contribution

These awards recognise excellence in both Indian and international cinema.

IFFI and India’s Growing Film Culture: India is one of the world’s biggest film-producing countries. IFFI helps showcase this talent to a global audience. It also allows Indian filmmakers to learn from international trends and experiment with new styles.

Every year, IFFI brings fresh energy, new stories, and global attention to Indian cinema. It reflects India’s belief that films can inspire, inform, entertain, and unite people.

Do You Know? (IFFI Facts)

● IFFI is often called “India’s Cannes” because of its global importance.

● The first IFFI travelled to different cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Madras (Chennai), and Kolkata before settling in Goa.

● Internationally acclaimed filmmakers such as Akira Kurosawa, Satyajit Ray, and Vittorio De Sica have been associated with IFFI.

● IFFI showcases films in over 40 languages every year.

The Real-Life Jungle Book

PENCH NATIONAL PARK 

One of the most sought-after wildlife destinations in Central India, Pench National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, history, and legend. Located in the heart of India, it lies across the districts of Seoni, Chhindwara, and Nagpur, spanning the states of Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. The park covers an area of about 758 sq. km, and derives its name from the Pench River, which meanders through it, dividing the park into two halves.

A region steeped in history: The Pench region has been known for centuries for its rich flora and fauna. Its landscapes and wildlife find mention in several historical texts, including Abul Fazl’s Ain-i-Akbari (a treatise on Mughal administration under Emperor Akbar) and later accounts by British officers such as R. O. Sterndale’s Seonee, or Camp Life on the Satpura Range (1877) and Captain J. Forsyth’s The Highlands of Central India (1919).

Inspiration behind the Jungle Book: An enduring legend associated with Pench is its link to Rudyard Kipling’s classic, The Jungle Book. The British administrator William Henry Sleeman once documented a remarkable case in his 1852 pamphlet, An Account of Wolves Nurturing Children in Their Dens, describing the discovery of a wild boy raised by wolves in the Seoni forests. This account is widely believed to have inspired Kipling’s character Mowgli, the wolf boy.

Although The Jungle Book is a work of fiction, Kipling’s descriptions of the Waingunga River, the hills, and the dense forests closely resemble the real topography of Pench, suggesting that this enchanting landscape breathed life into his stories.

From Sanctuary to Tiger Reserve: Pench was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1977 and later upgraded to a national park in 1983. In 1992, it became part of Project Tiger, earning the distinction of being India’s 19th tiger reserve. Today, it stands as one of the finest habitats for the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.

Landscape and Vegetation: The park’s terrain is undulating, with a mix of small hills, steep slopes, and sheltered valleys. Its vegetation is primarily dry deciduous forest, interspersed with patches of moist deciduous and teak forests. Dominant tree species include teak, coromandel ebony (tendu), palash, and mahua, along with dense undergrowth of shrubs, grasses, climbers, and bamboo clusters.

A haven for Wildlife and Birds: Pench National Park shelters a rich diversity of wildlife. Apart from tigers and leopards, it is home to sloth bears, chital, sambhar, nilgai, foxes, striped hyenas, wild dogs, jungle cats, and barking deer.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 285 species of resident and migratory birds. Notable among them are the crimson-breasted barbet, golden oriole, Indian white-backed vulture, crow pheasant, peafowl, magpie robin, racket-tailed drongo, common kingfisher, and Indian roller. The park’s rivers, open grasslands, and wetlands create ideal habitats for these vibrant species.

How to Reach: Pench National Park is well connected by air, rail, and road. The nearest major cities are Nagpur (130 km) and Jabalpur (215 km), both offering convenient access to the park.

A living legacy: Whether for its breathtaking natural beauty, its fascinating wildlife, or its connection to one of the world’s most beloved literary works, Pench National Park continues to captivate visitors from around the world. It remains not just a sanctuary for animals, but also a living testament to India’s enduring bond with nature and storytelling.

Beyond the boundary

🏏 A CAREER AS A CRICKET UMPIRE 

Cricket is more than just a game—it’s a passion shared by millions around the world. While players, coaches, and commentators often receive the spotlight, one group of professionals plays a crucial but often less celebrated role in ensuring fair play: the cricket umpires. A career as a cricket umpire can be both challenging and rewarding for those who have a deep love and understanding of the game.

👨‍⚖️ Who is a Cricket Umpire?

A cricket umpire is an official who makes decisions on the field to ensure that the game is played according to the laws and spirit of cricket. From judging whether a batsman is out to keeping track of overs, runs, and boundaries, an umpire is the authority on the ground. Their presence ensures discipline, fairness, and respect for the rules.

⚙️ Responsibilities of an Umpire

The duties of an umpire go far beyond raising a finger for an “out” decision. Some of the main responsibilities include:

● Making on-field decisions related to wickets, runs, and overs.

● Maintaining discipline and sportsmanship among players.

● Monitoring pitch and weather conditions.

● Communicating with scorers and the third umpire during matches.

● Keeping track of playing time and intervals.

🎓 Educational Qualifications and Training

While there is no fixed educational qualification required to become an umpire, having a strong understanding of cricket laws and good communication skills is essential. Many national cricket boards, such as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), conduct certification courses and examinations for aspiring umpires.

Steps generally include:

1. Enrolling in a local cricket association and gaining match experience.

2. Passing written and practical exams conducted by the state or national board.

3. Officiating in local and domestic matches to gain experience.

4. Advancing to higher levels, such as first-class, IPL, or international matches, based on performance.

🏆 Skills Required

A successful umpire must possess:

● Excellent knowledge of cricket laws and updates.

● Sharp observation and decision-making ability.

● Confidence and composure under pressure.

● Physical fitness and concentration for long hours. 

● Integrity, impartiality, and strong communication skills.

💼 Career Opportunities

A cricket umpire can start at local and club-level tournaments and gradually move up to state, national, and international levels. With experience, umpires may also become match referees, cricket administrators, or trainers for future umpires.

💰 Salary and Recognition

Umpires are paid depending on the level of matches they officiate. Local-level umpires earn modest fees, while international umpires receive lucrative match fees, allowances, and travel benefits. Prominent umpires like Simon Taufel, Aleem Dar, and Nitin Menon have earned worldwide respect for their accuracy and fairness.

💡 Did You Know?

● The first recorded cricket umpire appeared in the year 1721!

● Nitin Menon is the youngest Indian umpire to be included in the ICC Elite Panel.

● Umpires use hand signals for every decision to communicate clearly with players and scorers.

● Srinivasaraghavan Venkataraghavan — Former Indian cricketer and international umpire; awarded the Padma Shri in 2003. 

🌟 Conclusion

A career as a cricket umpire is ideal for those who are passionate about the game but prefer to contribute from behind the scenes. It requires patience, precision, and a strong sense of fairness. Though the job demands hard work and continuous learning, it offers immense satisfaction to those who love being part of the game’s heartbeat — ensuring cricket is played in the right spirit.

Incredible India

KARNI MATA TEMPLE OF RAJASTHAN 

(The temple where rats are revered)

In the heart of Deshnok, a small town near Bikaner in Rajasthan, stands one of the most unusual temples in the world — the Karni Mata Temple. Dedicated to Goddess Karni Mata, this temple is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of faith, compassion, and the fascinating blend of legend and devotion found in India’s spiritual traditions.

Who was Karni Mata? Karni Mata, believed to be an incarnation of Goddess Durga, was a 15th-century saint and mystic who was deeply respected by the people of Rajasthan. She is said to have performed many miracles and helped people selflessly. The rulers of Bikaner and Jodhpur considered her their family deity and sought her blessings before any important decision or battle.

The legend behind the temple: According to legend, one day Karni Mata’s stepson, Laxman, drowned while trying to drink water from a pond. The goddess, deeply saddened, requested Yama, the god of death, to restore his life. Yama refused.

Then, Karni Mata declared with her divine powers that no member of her family would ever go to Yama’s world again. Instead, they would be reborn as rats and continue to serve her faithfully.

Since then, it is believed that the thousands of rats living in the temple are the reincarnated souls of her devotees.

The Holy Rats: The temple is home to over 25,000 rats, known as “Kabbas.” These rats are treated with great respect and devotion. Devotees feed them grains, milk, and sweets, and walk carefully so as not to harm them.

Spotting a white rat among the black ones is considered extremely auspicious, as they are believed to represent Karni Mata herself or her sons.

Architecture and significance: The temple, built by Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner in the early 20th century, is a beautiful example of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Its marble floors, silver gates, and intricate carvings reflect both artistic beauty and spiritual grandeur.

Every year, thousands of devotees and tourists visit this temple — not out of fear or curiosity, but out of deep reverence and wonder at this living example of harmony between humans and animals.

A living symbol of faith: The Karni Mata Temple reminds us that faith and compassion can exist in the most unexpected forms. It shows that every life, no matter how small, carries divine energy.

🌟 Did You Know?

● The temple houses more than 25,000 rats, all well-fed and protected.

● If a rat accidentally dies, it must be replaced with one made of solid silver!

● Devotees believe that eating food nibbled by the rats brings good fortune.

● The white rats, very few in number, are considered sacred messengers of the Goddess.

● The temple is especially crowded during Navratri, when special prayers and fairs are held.

Moral / Message: The Karni Mata Temple stands as a reminder that true devotion lies in respect for all forms of life — for in the eyes of the divine, every creature is sacred.

A Song that Awakened a Nation

150 YEARS OF VANDE MATARAM 

Introduction: In the heart of every Indian, the words “Vande Mataram” echo with pride and devotion. This powerful song, which means “I bow to thee, Mother”, has inspired generations and played a vital role in India’s freedom struggle. As we mark 150 years of its composition, it is a perfect time to look back at its origins, meaning, and continuing relevance in our national life.

The birth of a Patriotic Song: The journey of Vande Mataram began around 1875–76, when Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, one of India’s greatest writers, penned these immortal lines in Bengali. At that time, India was still under British rule, and patriotic expression was often suppressed. Yet, Bankim Chandra, inspired by the beauty and spirit of his motherland, wrote a song that celebrated India as a divine mother.

The poem first appeared in his famous novel Anandamath, published in 1882. The story, set during the 18th-century Sannyasi Rebellion, depicted monks fighting for their motherland. In this novel, Vande Mataram became the song of courage and unity, urging Indians to rise for their nation’s freedom.

Meaning of “Vande Mataram”: The words “Vande Mataram” literally mean “I praise thee, Mother” or “I bow to thee, Mother.”

In the poem, Mother refers to the motherland – India, personified as a goddess who nourishes her children with rivers, crops, and blessings.

Here’s a glimpse of its first stanza:

Vande Mataram!

Sujalam, suphalam, malayaja shitalam,

Shasyashyamalam, Mataram!

Translation:

I bow to thee, Mother,

richly watered, richly fruited,

cool with the winds of the south,

dark with crops, Mother!

These words express deep love and gratitude for the land that gives us life.

Voice of the freedom struggle: During India’s freedom movement, Vande Mataram became more than a song — it became a national slogan of unity and resistance.

In 1896, Rabindranath Tagore sang it at a session of the Indian National Congress, giving it national recognition.

During the Swadeshi Movement (1905), when Bengal was partitioned, thousands of people sang Vande Mataram during marches and protests.

The British government even tried to ban its public recitation because it ignited strong nationalist feelings!

Freedom fighters like Bipin Chandra Pal, Lala Lajpat Rai, and Subhas Chandra Bose proudly invoked its spirit. In fact, Bose’s Indian National Army also used “Vande Mataram” as a battle cry.

From Freedom to Nationhood: After independence, there was great debate about which song should represent the nation. While Jana Gana Mana was chosen as the National Anthem, the Constituent Assembly of India gave Vande Mataram the special status of National Song on 24 January 1950.

Only the first two stanzas were adopted officially, as they focus on the love of the motherland and not on religious imagery found in later verses. This ensured that the song remained inclusive and unifying for all Indians, regardless of faith.

Cultural Impact and Legacy: Even today, Vande Mataram continues to inspire Indians across generations. It is sung at school functions, national celebrations, and cultural events.

Before A. R. Rahman’s celebrated 1997 album version, Vande Mataram had already touched millions through the golden voice of Lata Mangeshkar. Her emotional rendition featured in the 1952 Hindi film Anand Math, based on Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s original novel. The music was composed by Hemant Kumar, and the film’s version beautifully captured the patriotic fervour of the freedom struggle era.

When the audience first heard Lata Mangeshkar’s soaring voice sing “Vande Mataram”, many were moved to tears — it became a defining patriotic melody for post-independence India.

Later, A. R. Rahman’s version, released in 1997 to mark 50 years of India’s Independence, gave the song a modern global reach, blending Indian classical and contemporary sounds.

From Tagore’s voice in 1896 to Lata’s immortal film version in 1952, and Rahman’s modern revival in 1997, Vande Mataram has continued to evolve — a timeless thread connecting generations of Indians through music, devotion, and pride.

A song beyond time: As we celebrate 150 years of Vande Mataram, we are reminded of the power of words and art. Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s creation was not just a poem; it was a spiritual awakening. It united people across languages and regions, urging them to see India not just as a country, but as a living mother deserving of respect and devotion.

For students, it teaches important lessons —

● to love and serve our nation selflessly,

● to cherish unity in diversity, and

● to remember the sacrifices that won us freedom.

Contemporary Relevance: Today, in the 21st century, Vande Mataram continues to hold deep meaning. It reminds us that patriotism is not only about slogans but about actions — protecting the environment, upholding honesty, respecting our culture, and helping others.

Educators and parents can use this milestone year to inspire discussions among students —

What does “Motherland” mean to us today?

How can we honour our nation through our daily choices?

How can art and literature strengthen our unity?

Such reflections help young minds understand that patriotism begins with gratitude and responsibility.

Conclusion: As India celebrates 150 years of Vande Mataram, we pay homage to the timeless song that awakened the spirit of a nation. It continues to remind us that our greatest strength lies in our unity, our love for the land, and our shared heritage.

Let us continue to say with pride and devotion —

Vande Mataram! – I bow to thee, Mother.

Did You Know?

● Bankim Chandra Chatterjee was a deputy magistrate under British rule.

● The first public performance of Vande Mataram was sung by Rabindranath Tagore in 1896.

● Subhas Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army had “Vande Mataram” as its official greeting.

● A. R. Rahman’s version (1997) was released to mark 50 years of India’s independence.

A Tapestry of Many Tongues

LANGUAGES OF INDIA 

India is not just a land of diverse cultures, traditions, and religions — it is also a land of many languages. Every few hundred kilometres, the way people speak, write, and express themselves changes beautifully. This linguistic variety is one of India’s greatest treasures, reflecting its long history and rich cultural heritage.

🌍 A Land of Linguistic Diversity

India is home to hundreds of languages and thousands of dialects. According to the Census of India, more than 1,600 languages are spoken across the country.

These languages belong mainly to four major language families:

1. Indo-Aryan languages – spoken in northern, western, and eastern India (like Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, Gujarati, Punjabi).

2. Dravidian languages – spoken in southern India (like Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam).

3. Austroasiatic languages – found mostly in central and eastern regions (like Santali and Mundari).

4. Tibeto-Burman languages – spoken in the Himalayan and northeastern states (like Bodo, Manipuri, and Nishi).

Each of these groups has its own scripts, grammar, and style, making India one of the most linguistically rich nations in the world.

🏛️ Official Languages of India

The Constitution of India recognizes 22 languages under the Eighth Schedule. These are known as the Scheduled Languages of India.

They are:

Assamese, Bengali, Bodo, Dogri, Gujarati, Hindi, Kannada, Kashmiri, Konkani, Maithili, Malayalam, Manipuri, Marathi, Nepali, Odia, Punjabi, Sanskrit, Santali, Sindhi, Tamil, Telugu, and Urdu.

Among these, Hindi in the Devanagari script is the official language of the Union Government, while English is also used for official and administrative purposes.

🗣️ Multilingual India

Most Indians grow up speaking more than one language. It is common for people to speak a mother tongue at home, use Hindi or English as a link language, and also understand or speak other regional languages.

For example:

A person in Maharashtra might speak Marathi at home, Hindi with friends, and English at work.

In Tamil Nadu, someone may speak Tamil, understand Telugu, and read English fluently.

This multilingual ability is part of daily life and a reflection of India’s inclusive spirit.

📚 Classical and Ancient Languages

India is also the birthplace of some of the oldest languages in the world.

Sanskrit is considered the mother of many Indian languages and is known for its scientific grammar and rich literature.

Tamil, with an unbroken literary history of over 2,000 years, is one of the world’s oldest living languages.

Other classical languages include Kannada, Telugu, Malayalam, and Odia, each with ancient literary traditions.

🎶 Languages and Culture

Language in India is closely tied to culture, art, and identity.

Each language has its own folk songs, proverbs, stories, and poetry that express the emotions and values of its people.

Festivals, songs, and cinema — from Bollywood to Tollywood — also celebrate this linguistic variety and help bring people together across regions.

🌟 Unity in Diversity

Despite having so many languages, India remains united through respect and understanding. The diversity of languages strengthens national identity rather than dividing it. As Mahatma Gandhi once said,

“Our languages are the reflection of our soul; they must all live and flourish together.”

🕊️ Conclusion

The languages of India are not just means of communication — they are living symbols of its history, culture, and unity. From the melody of Bengali to the rhythm of Tamil, from the elegance of Urdu poetry to the depth of Sanskrit shlokas — every language adds its own note to the grand symphony called India.

Did You Know?

🪶 India has the second-highest number of spoken languages in the world, after Papua New Guinea.

🪶 The Indian rupee note displays its value in 15 different languages besides Hindi and English!

Here’s a clear, colourful, and student-friendly “Inspiration Box” you can include with your article on Languages of India. It summarises the key facts in a way that’s easy to read and visually appealing for your blog or classroom display.

📘 Inspiration Box: The Languages of India

🌈 Quick Facts

🇮🇳 India is home to 1,600+ languages and thousands of dialects.

🗣️ Most Indians speak two or more languages in daily life.

🏛️ The Constitution of India recognises 22 Scheduled Languages.

📜 Hindi (in Devanagari script) is the official language of the Union Government.

✍️ English is used as an associate official language for communication and administration.

🪶 The 22 Scheduled Languages of India

1. Assamese: Assamese script (Assam)

2. Bengali: Bengali script (West Bengal)

3. Bodo: Devanagari (Assam)

4. Dogri: Devanagari (Jammu region)

5. Gujarati: Gujarati script (Gujarat)

6. Hindi: Devanagari (North India)

7. Kannada: Kannada script (Karnataka)

8. Kashmiri: Perso-Arabic and Devanagari  

    (Jammu & Kashmir)

9. Konkani: Devanagari (Goa, Konkan)

10. Maithili: Tirhuta/Devanagari (Bihar)

11. Malayalam: Malayalam script (Kerala)

12. Manipuri: Meitei Mayek (Manipur)

13. Marathi: Devanagari (Maharashtra)

14. Nepali: Devanagari (Sikkim, Darjeeling)

15. Odia: Odia script (Odisha)

16. Punjabi: Gurmukhi (Punjab)

17. Sanskrit: Devanagari (Pan-Indian classical language)

18. Santali: Ol Chiki (Jharkhand, Odisha, West    

     Bengal)

19. Sindhi: Perso-Arabic / Devanagari (Gujarat, 

     Rajasthan)

20. Tamil: Tamil script (Tamil Nadu)

21. Telugu: Telugu script (Andhra Pradesh, 

     Telangana)

22. Urdu Perso-Arabic (North India, Telangana, 

      J&K)

🌟 Did You Know?

🪔 Sanskrit and Tamil are among the world’s oldest living languages.

🏫 The Indian rupee note shows its value in 15 Indian languages, besides Hindi and English.

📖 The word “Namaste” is understood in almost every Indian language — a symbol of unity through diversity.

Celebrating 100 Years of Rashtra Sewa

RASHTRIYA SWAYAMSEVAK SANGH (RSS)

Introduction: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is one of the largest voluntary organisations in the world. It was founded in 1925 to promote social unity, discipline, and service to the nation. Over the years, the RSS has grown into a major cultural and social force in India, inspiring millions of volunteers to work for society.

Foundation and History: The RSS was founded on 27 September 1925, which was the day of Vijayadashami (Dussehra), in Nagpur, Maharashtra by Dr. Keshav Baliram Hedgewar. At that time, India was under British rule, and there was a need to instill patriotism, unity, and self-confidence among the people. Hedgewar’s vision was to create an organisation that would train individuals to dedicate themselves to the service of the country.

Organisation and Activities: The basic unit of the RSS is called a Shakha (meaning "branch"). In a Shakha, members, known as Swayamsevaks, gather regularly for physical training, group games, patriotic songs, discussions, and social service activities. The aim is to build discipline, leadership, and teamwork.

The RSS does not have a formal membership system—anyone attending Shakhas and contributing to activities becomes part of it.

Ideals and Principles - The RSS emphasises:

● Discipline and Character-building

● Selfless Service (Sewa) to society

● Nationalism and Patriotism

● Unity beyond caste, language, or region

● Preservation of Indian culture and traditions

Social Work and Contributions: The RSS and its volunteers are known for their social service. They have actively participated in relief work during natural disasters such as floods, earthquakes, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The organisation also runs schools, hostels, and service projects in rural and tribal areas, focusing on education, health, and social welfare.

Influence and Legacy: Over time, the RSS has influenced many social, cultural, and political movements in India. Several organisations, such as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), have connections with the RSS.

Its impact on Indian society is significant, as it continues to inspire volunteers to dedicate themselves to the nation’s service.

Importance on Dussehra: The day of Dussehra (Vijayadashami) holds special importance for the RSS because it was on this day that the organisation was founded in 1925. Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil, truth over falsehood, and righteousness over injustice. For the RSS, this day represents the beginning of its mission to build a strong and united India through discipline, service, and cultural values.

Every year on Dussehra, the RSS holds its annual Vijayadashami address, where the Sarsanghchalak (chief of RSS) shares the organisation’s vision, achievements, and future goals. This tradition highlights how the ideals of courage, unity, and service—central to Dussehra—remain guiding principles for the RSS even today.

Centenary Celebration – 100 Years of RSS: This year, 2025, marks a historic moment for the RSS as it completes 100 years since its foundation. The centenary celebrations are not just an occasion to look back at its long journey, but also to renew its commitment to the ideals of nationalism, social service, and cultural pride. For millions of Swayamsevaks, this Dussehra is especially significant because it celebrates a century of dedication to the nation and sets the vision for the next hundred years.

Conclusion: The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh is not just an organisation but a movement devoted to the values of unity, service, and patriotism. By promoting discipline and social service, it has played an important role in India’s cultural and social development. Its foundation on Dussehra gives it symbolic strength, and in 2025, its centenary celebration makes this day even more meaningful, reminding us that the spirit of service and victory of good are timeless values for every generation.