Malayalam language

Malayalam

Pronunciation
Native to
Region	Kerala, Lakshadweep, Mahé
Ethnicity
Speakers	38 million
Language family	Dravidian
Early forms
Writing system
Official status
Regulated by

Malayalam (മലയാളം) is a Dravidian language spoken predominantly in the state of Kerala and the union territories of Lakshadweep and Mahé in India. It is one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and was designated a Classical Language in India in 2013 due to its rich literary heritage.

History

Malayalam originated from the Proto-Dravidian language spoken in the region during the early medieval period. It evolved from Middle Tamil and separated from its sister language, Tamil, around the 9th century AD. The earliest known poems in Malayalam date back to the 12th century.

Script

The Malayalam script is a Brahmic script derived from the Grantha script, which in turn is a descendant of Brahmi script. It is used for writing Malayalam and several minority languages such as Paniya, Betta Kurumba, and Ravula.

Dialects

Malayalam has several regional and community-based dialects. Major dialects include the Central Kerala dialect, North Kerala dialect, South Kerala dialect, and the dialects of the Lakshadweep islands.

Literature

Malayalam literature is one of the most prolific and diverse in India, encompassing a wide range of literary forms and themes. It includes ancient works such as the Ramacharitam and the Kerala Mahatmyam, and modern works by authors like O. V. Vijayan, M. T. Vasudevan Nair, and Kamala Surayya.

Usage and Cultural Significance

Malayalam is not only used in daily communication but also in print and electronic media, literature, and cinema. It plays a crucial role in the cultural and social identity of the Malayali people. Festivals, traditional arts, and cuisine are often expressed and celebrated through the Malayalam language.

Education and Media

Malayalam is taught in schools throughout Kerala and in select schools in other states. The language is also prominent in the media, with numerous newspapers, magazines, television channels, and radio stations broadcasting in Malayalam.

See also

• Languages of India
• Dravidian languages
• Kerala literature