Pali Language

The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) recently organised a gathering of Buddhist monks and scholars in Colombo to discuss India’s decision to recognize Pali as a classical language.

About Pali Language

Origin: The term “Pali” is a modern designation, and its origins are debated among scholars. Prior to the 6th or 7th century, there wasn’t a distinct language recognized as Pali.
Early References: The earliest mentions of Pali can be found in the commentaries of Buddhist scholar Buddhaghosa.
Literary Contributions of the Pali Language:
- It was adopted by Buddhist and Jain sects in ancient India and it became the primary medium for disseminating Lord Buddha’s teachings.
- Canonical Literature: The entire corpus of Buddhist literature, especially the Tipitaka (or “Threefold Basket”), is composed in Pali:
- Jataka Kathas: These non-canonical tales narrate the stories of the Buddha’s previous lives. They were also written in Pali.
- Text such as Dipvamsa and Mahavamsa, Milindpanho, Vishuddhimagga are also written in Pali language.
Emperor Ashoka (268-232 BCE) played a significant role in promoting Pali.Many of his Rock edicts and Inscriptions used Pali.

Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)

It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of External Affairs.
It promotes Indian culture abroad through its network of cultural centres.
ICCR was founded in 1950 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (Independent India’s first Education Minister).