Actor Initiates A Mission For His Mother Tongue

Bhojpuri actor and BJP MP Ravi Kishan has proposed a private member bill in Lok Sabha to include Bhojpuri in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution granting it official language status. 

Introducing The Constitution Bill 2024 Kishan emphasized Bhojpuri's rich cultural history and literature beyond its popular songs.

He highlighted its significance as a mother tongue for many in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and beyond including in countries like Mauritius. 

The bill notes Bhojpuri's origins in Sanskrit and its influence on Hindi literature citing scholars like Mahapandit Rahul Sankrityayan.

The proposal seeks to promote Bhojpuri's literary and cultural heritage and recognizes ongoing efforts like Bhojpuri courses at IGNOU and a study center at Banaras Hindu University.

The Eighth Schedule currently lists 22 official languages and Kishan's bill aims to include Bhojpuri addressing a longstanding demand from its speakers.

Private member bills though rarely enacted draw attention to significant issues not always covered by government legislation.