Hindi has ascended to the position of being the third most spoken language in the world, a new report by Ethnologue, the authoritative source on world languages, has found.
The Ethnologue report, which delves into the linguistic landscape of the world, underscores the pivotal role language plays in shaping human interaction, culture, and identity.
Boasting 609.5 million speakers, Hindi's elevation to the top tier of global languages highlights its significance not only within India but also on the international stage.
Hindi, a language synonymous with the vibrant cultural landscape of India, has transcended geographical boundaries to emerge as a popular language around the globe largely due to the country's diaspora as well as the prominence of Bollywood and classical literature.
English maintains its position as the most spoken language globally, with an estimated 1.5 billion speakers. The language's dominance in international business, science, and diplomacy is well-established, and its pervasiveness has been amplified by the internet.
Following English is Mandarin Chinese, spoken by roughly 1.1 billion people, primarily in China and Taiwan. Mandarin Chinese plays a significant role in global communication and holds economic and cultural weight for Chinese communities around the world.
Notably, Bengali, the official language of Bangladesh and widely spoken in India's West Bengal region, occupies the seventh position. Renowned for its artistic and poetic heritage, Bengali boasts a rich cultural tapestry evident in its contributions to literature, music, and cinema.
Lastly Urdu, the official language of Pakistan and widely spoken in northern India comes in at number ten. Often referred to as the "language of poets," Urdu carries immense cultural significance. It serves as a vital vehicle for preserving South Asia's cultural heritage through literature, music, and cinema, making it a valuable asset for cultural exchange and entertainment within the region.
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