Author: Mst . Waleda Khatun
Abstract: This study explores the role of Urdu as a political tool in South Asia, examining how the language has been used to shape nationalism, identity, and political discourse in both Pakistan and India. Historically, Urdu has been more than just a means of communication; it has functioned as a symbol of religious and cultural identity, particularly in the context of Muslim nationalism in Pakistan and Muslim minority politics in India. This research delves into how political leaders, parties, and movements have strategically employed Urdu to foster national unity, assert religious identities, and navigate regional and linguistic divides. In Pakistan, Urdu became the cornerstone of national identity post-partition, despite being spoken by a minority, while in India, the language has been associated with Muslim identity, often marginalized by the dominance of Hindi and Hindu nationalism. The study examines the intersections of language, politics, and social division, highlighting how Urdu’s status has been both a tool for political integration and a source of ethnic tension. Additionally, the role of Urdu-language media in contemporary political discourse is analyzed, shedding light on how the language continues to influence political movements and public opinion. This research underscores the significance of language in constructing national identities and shaping political ideologies, offering insights into the broader implications of linguistic politics in South Asia.
Keywords: Urdu, Political Tool, Nationalism, Identity, South Asia, Language Politics etc.
Page No: 102-105