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Telugu language

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Telugu is a major Dravidian language spoken by approximately 100 million people.

Telugu talli bomma
Telugu talli bomma

It serves as the official language in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Beyond these states, it is spoken by minority populations in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. Telugu is also used in the union territories of Puducherry and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As the fourteenth most spoken native language globally, it holds significant cultural weight. It is one of the twenty-two scheduled languages of the Republic of India. The language is also recognized as a classical language by the Government of India.

Linguistically, Telugu belongs to the South Dravidian-II sub-group. This group also includes languages such as Gondi, Kuvi, and Koya. Scholars like Mikhail S. Andronov suggest that Telugu split from Proto-Dravidian around 1000 BCE. The history of the language is divided into four distinct periods. Pre-historic Telugu lasted from roughly 600 BCE to 200 BCE. This was followed by Old Telugu from 200 BCE to 1000 CE. Middle Telugu spanned from 1000 CE to 1600 CE. Finally, Modern Telugu has been used from 1600 CE to the present day.

Ancient Telugu Script displayed at Telugu Museum 3
Ancient Telugu Script displayed at Telugu Museum 3

The structure of Pre-historic Telugu was quite specific. It was a conservative language with distinct linguistic features. For example, it used specific plural markers like -r, -ḷ, and -nkkVḷ. These markers helped distinguish between different types of nouns. The language also used nominative markers such as -nḏu for masculine singular subjects. Tenses were organized simply into past and non-past categories. Gender was categorized as masculine or non-masculine. Demonstratives like ā (distant), ī (proximate), and ū (intermediate) helped clarify location. Most words ended in vowels, though some ended in consonants like -m or -n.

1 1149A old telugu language-Vishnu Kundi indravarma sasanam 6th century 1
1 1149A old telugu language-Vishnu Kundi indravarma sasanam 6th century 1

The written history of Telugu began with short inscriptions. The earliest Telugu words appear in Prakrit inscriptions found at Bhattiprolu. One specific word, "nāgabu," was found at the Amaravati Stupa and dates to around 200 BCE.

Addanki 848AD Sasanamu
Addanki 848AD Sasanamu

Other early words for people and places were found in the Krishna river basin. The first long inscription written entirely in Telugu dates to 575 CE. This inscription is attributed to the Renati Choda king, Dhanunjaya. Earlier, short label inscriptions like "tolacuvānḍru" appeared around 400 CE near the Keesaragutta Temple. These early records show how the script evolved over many centuries.

For over 1,500 years, Telugu has functioned as an official language. It was the court language for many powerful dynasties. These included the Vishnukundina, the Kakatiyas, and the Vijayanagara Empire. Even non-Telugu dynasties, such as the Thanjavur Marathas, adopted it. This widespread use helped Telugu become a language of high culture across South India. There are roughly 10,000 pre-colonial inscriptions written in Telugu. These records prove the language's long-standing importance in administration and law.

Andhra Pradesh districts map
Andhra Pradesh districts map

Telugu has a massive and diverse literary tradition. During the 16th century, the Vijayanagara Empire saw a Golden Age of literature. This period included the rule of the famous emperor Krishnadevaraya. The language is also deeply connected to Carnatic music. Many people describe Telugu as a mellifluous and euphonious language. This means it has a sweet and musical sound. This quality makes it perfect for classical musical compositions. Even scientific writing has a history in Telugu, such as Pavuluri Mallana's mathematical treatise.

Today, the Telugu-speaking community is spread far beyond India. This is known as the Telugu diaspora. People live in countries like the United States, Australia, and Malaysia. In the United States, Telugu is actually the fastest-growing language. It is also a protected language in South Africa. In the KwaZulu-Natal province, students can study it as an optional third language. Whether through ancient inscriptions or modern digital identity, Telugu remains a vibrant force.

Telugu Flag (Social Media)
Telugu Flag (Social Media)
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🖼️ Images & Media (10)
File:Telugu Flag (Social Media).png
Telugu Flag (Social Media).png
File:Telugu talli bomma.JPG
Telugu talli bomma.JPG
File:Telugu speakers in India.png
Telugu speakers in India.png
File:Andhra Pradesh districts map.svg
Andhra Pradesh districts map.svg
WIKITONGUES- Naren speaking Telugu.webm
WIKITONGUES- Manjusha speaking Telugu.webm
File:ఎన్నికల ప్రచార సామగ్రి దుకాణము.jpg
ఎన్నికల ప్రచార సామగ్రి దుకాణము.jpg
File:Ancient Telugu Script displayed at Telugu Museum 3.jpg
Ancient Telugu Script displayed at Telugu...
File:1 1149A old telugu language-Vishnu Kundi indravarma sasanam 6th century 1.jpg
1 1149A old telugu language-Vishnu Kundi...
File:Addanki 848AD Sasanamu.png
Addanki 848AD Sasanamu.png
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