16 Resources to Learn Urdu for Free

About the Urdu Language

The Urdu language is a major Indo-Aryan language spoken by over 100 million people primarily in Pakistan and India. It holds significant cultural and historical importance and serves as the national language of Pakistan.

Urdu has its origins in the 13th-century Persianized variety of Hindustani, which was spoken in the Delhi Sultanate. It developed as a literary language influenced by Persian, Arabic, and Turkic languages. Urdu's vocabulary is a mix of Arabic, Persian, and Sanskrit words, with additional influences from regional languages.

Urdu is written in a modified version of the Persian-Arabic script called Nastaʿlīq. It is known for its calligraphic beauty and is used to write poetry, literature, and official documents. The script is read from right to left.

Urdu is widely spoken in Pakistan, particularly in urban areas and among educated communities. It is also spoken and understood in parts of India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Telangana, where it has official status.

One interesting fact about Urdu is its close association with the literary and cultural heritage of the Indian subcontinent. It has a rich tradition of poetry, ghazals, and literature, with notable poets and writers contributing to its vibrant literary scene.

Urdu has had a significant influence on other regional languages, particularly in northern India. It has contributed words, idioms, and cultural expressions to Hindi, another major language of the region. The dialect spoken in Delhi, known as "Dakhini," is a blend of Urdu and Hindi.

Urdu serves as a symbol of national identity for Pakistan and plays a vital role in the country's education, media, and official communication. It is the medium of instruction in schools and is used extensively in newspapers, television, and films.

Efforts have been made to promote and preserve Urdu, particularly through educational institutions and cultural organizations. Urdu-language academies and literary festivals contribute to the development and promotion of the language.

The Urdu language reflects the rich cultural diversity and historical legacy of the Indian subcontinent. It serves as a bridge between different communities and regions, fostering a sense of unity and shared heritage among its speakers.