Dignity of mother tongue should be upheld

Bangla is our mother tongue. Salam, Rafiq, Barkat, Jabbar and others shed their blood for the language. They have established the rights of Bangla language making supreme sacrifice. Unfortunately, we are about to forget the glorious and respected history. The continuous disorder with the Bangla language and spelling in last few years not only exposes our negligence or indifference to mother tongue but also reveals our ignorance about the rules of the language. 

The wide practice of the wrong pronunciation and spelling of Bangla language has created a notion that any way of pronunciation or spelling would be okay. But if the practice continues then correct pronunciation and spelling would become a subject of history.

We certainly love our mother tongue. It is also important to protect the dignity of that love. And the dignity would be protected when we will be aware of correct spelling and pronunciation of Bangla language. It's not hard to talk in correct pronunciation and write in correct spelling. A little awareness and carefulness can do that.

At a function on International Mother Language Day, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called upon all to be more aware in pronunciation and spelling of Bangla words. Pointing to the younger generation she said: "You have to learn mother tongue first, and then other languages." She also expressed her concern over the trend of young generation's unnecessary attraction to English language and their bizarre way of speaking blending English and Bangla together.

In fact, we are witnessing chaos in spelling and pronunciation of Bangla language. The misuse and dissimilarities are apparent in the pages of newspapers, posters, advertisings, signboards. The use of standard form of language is about to come to an end in television dramas, FM radio stations and social networks. That's why the Prime Minister expressed her concern and told us to be alert. She urged not to speak in Banglish (Bangla + English).

In many cases, the misuse occurs due to ignorance. However, awareness of the authors in this regard is very important. Because, many people are inspired by reading their writings. Students of schools, colleges and universities are influenced. We must be aware in writings though whatever we may say in conversation. Our writings must be pure and modest. Regional or oral language can be used in TV, but that should be done according to necessity and without any change.

Social media users should be careful in using the correct language. Because, anyone might be influenced by the language used by others. In particular, they should be more careful on popular media. Discipline in this regard can be maintained if everyone is responsible from their own position.

risingbd/DHAKA/Feb 26, 2017/Ali Nowsher/Augustin Sujan