Hindi Diwas special: Amazing facts about the language
Hindi Diwas, observed annually on September 14th, celebrates the profound cultural and linguistic significance of Hindi in India and globally. It serves as a yearly reminder of Hindi's deep roots connecting millions and its crucial role in shaping...
Every year on September 14, India observes Hindi Diwas — a day dedicated to celebrating one of the country’s most widely spoken and culturally significant languages. More than just an annual observance, Hindi Diwas is a reminder of the deep linguistic roots that connect millions of people, not only across India but around the world. Hindi is not just a language; it is a reflection of India’s identity, history, and evolving narrative. From its origins and global spread to its role in literature, education, and diplomacy, Hindi plays a crucial role in shaping national discourse and cultural expression.
As we mark Hindi Diwas 2025, here are ten fascinating facts about the language that you may not have known:
Hindi is the most spoken language in India
Hindi is the most widely spoken language in India, with a significant majority of the population using it as their first or second language. According to the Census of India, over 44% of Indians identify Hindi as their mother tongue, making it the dominant language in the country.
Hindi has more than 615 million speakers worldwide
Hindi is spoken not just across India but in many parts of the world. With over 615 million speakers, it is one of the most widely spoken languages globally.
The first known Hindi books were published in 1795
ADVERTISEMENT
Some of the earliest Hindi literary works were published in 1795, including Heera Lal’s treatise on Ain-e-Akbari and the Rewa Maharaja’s work on Kabir, laying the foundation for modern Hindi literature.
The word ‘Hindi’ comes from the Persian word ‘Hind’
The term “Hindi” is derived from the Persian word ‘Hind’, which refers to the land of the Indus River. The name was originally used to describe the language spoken in northern India.
Hindi is the 3rd most spoken language in the world
<p>According to Ethnologue data from 2024, Hindi ranks third globally in terms of native speakers, following only English and Mandarin Chinese.</p><h4><br></h4> <p><br></p>
Hindi was adopted as India’s official language in 1949
The Constituent Assembly of India officially adopted Hindi (written in the Devanagari script) as the country’s official language on September 14, 1949, giving rise to the annual Hindi Diwas celebration.
Alam Ara was the first Hindi talking film
The movie Alam Ara, released on March 14, 1931, holds the distinction of being the first Hindi-language talking film, ushering in a new era in Indian cinema.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee delivered a speech in Hindi at the UN in 1977
<p>In a proud moment for the country, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee addressed the United Nations in Hindi, marking the language’s presence on a global diplomatic platform, in 1977</p><h4><br></h4> <p><br></p>
India’s first Hindi newspaper: Udant Martand
Udant Martand (meaning The Rising Sun) holds the distinction of being India’s first Hindi-language newspaper. It was first published on May 30, 1826, in Calcutta (now Kolkata) by Pandit Jugal Kishore Shukla.This weekly newspaper was printed in the Devanagari script and ceased publication in 1827 due to financial constraints and lack of government support.
ADVERTISEMENT
Hindi is taught in 176 universities worldwide
<p>According to the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Hindi is taught in 176 universities around the world, demonstrating its academic and cultural influence beyond Indian borders. The map shows the ICCR centres around the world.</p><h3>
<p data-start="2562" data-end="2759"><br></p></h3>
PM Modi extends heartfelt wishes on Hindi Diwas; says, "Hindi is vibrant heritage of our identity and values"
