Move to use Hindi is an act of linguistic assertion: Goa Governor Mridula Sinha

PANAJI: Goa Governor Mridula Sinha today said that use of Hindi language at administrative levels is a welcome step and should be seen as an expression of linguistic and cultural assertion.

Addressing the delegates at fifth Goa Arts and Literature Festival (GALF), Sinha supported the decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has emphasised on the use of Hindi at all levels of government functioning.

"This decision is an act of cultural and linguistic assertion, which is a welcome step for the country," she said delivering a lecture on "Changing India: The Role of Hindi."

"Such a decision was taken (to use Hindi) because the PM wanted to keep India alive in foreign countries," she said adding "this needs huge courage".

The Governor, who is also a Hindi writer, said that local languages should be taught to children right from their childhood by parents.

"The language depicts culture of the family and society at large," she said, adding, that development of language is not just a mandate of the government but equally a responsibility of parents.

Sinha, who has more than eleven books to her credit, said she feels comfortable speaking in Hindi, though she has command over English language too.

"When I speak in English only my mind works but my heart starts working the moment I speak in Hindi," she said.

The Governor said when she speaks in Hindi, she can convey her thoughts in a better way.

"I am not against English, but one should feel proud of the mother tongue or local languages," she said.

GALF was inaugurated yesterday by Singaporean writer Edwin Thumboo. The festival will end on December 7.