Pothohari, a distinct language spoken predominantly in the Pothohar Plateau region of Pakistan, is at a crossroads in its linguistic journey. Despite having its unique linguistic features and rich oral tradition, Pothohari remains largely unrecognized as a language in its own right. This article explores the path to attaining the status of a language for Pothohari by examining crucial factors such as the need for a standard script, its proximity to Urdu and Punjabi, the importance of literature, and the role of critical research.

1. The Need for a Standard Script

One of the fundamental requirements for elevating Pothohari to a recognized language is the development of a standardized script. Currently, Pothohari primarily relies on the Shahmukhi script, the same script used for Punjabi and, more commonly, Urdu. This shared script has contributed to the misconception that Pothohari is merely a dialect of these languages rather than a distinct linguistic entity.

  1. The Shahmukhi Script and Its Limitations: While Shahmukhi serves its purpose, it does not adequately represent the unique phonetic features of Pothohari. Pothohari's phonological distinctions, such as specific vowel sounds and intonations, are not accurately conveyed in Shahmukhi.

  2. Standardizing the Script: To establish Pothohari as a language, linguists, scholars, and native speakers must collaborate to devise a standardized script. This script should capture the phonetic nuances of the language while ensuring ease of reading and writing.

  3. Preserving Cultural Identity: Developing a unique script for Pothohari would also contribute to preserving the cultural identity of the speakers, setting it apart from Urdu and Punjabi, which are often dominant in the region.

2. Proximity to Urdu and Punjabi

Understanding the relationship between Pothohari, Urdu, and Punjabi is crucial in its quest for linguistic recognition.

  1. Linguistic Proximity: Pothohari shares linguistic ties with both Urdu and Punjabi due to geographical and historical factors. This proximity has contributed to the perception that Pothohari is merely a dialect rather than a distinct language.

  2. Maintaining Proximity: Striking a balance between maintaining linguistic proximity to Urdu and Punjabi while establishing Pothohari's individuality is vital. This can be achieved by adopting a script and vocabulary that reflects the unique features of Pothohari while allowing for mutual intelligibility with its neighboring languages.

  3. Promoting Multilingualism: Recognizing Pothohari as a language does not necessitate abandoning Urdu or Punjabi. Instead, it encourages multilingualism, allowing speakers to preserve their cultural heritage while also engaging with broader linguistic communities.

3. The Significance of Literature

Literature plays a pivotal role in shaping and preserving the identity of a language. For Pothohari to gain recognition, it must develop a robust literary tradition.

  1. Literary Expression: Literature in Pothohari should encompass various genres, including poetry, prose, drama, and folklore. Writers and poets must use the language to express the nuances of their culture, emotions, and experiences.

  2. Promoting Pothohari through Literature: Literary works can serve as a powerful medium for introducing Pothohari to a wider audience. They provide a platform for showcasing the richness of the language and its unique literary heritage.

  3. Institutional Support: Governments, educational institutions, and cultural organizations should actively promote the creation of Pothohari literature. Literary festivals, awards, and publications can encourage writers to contribute to the language's literary corpus.

4 The Role of Critical Research

Critical research is essential in establishing the linguistic legitimacy of Pothohari and fostering a deeper understanding of its grammar, vocabulary, and syntax.

  1. Linguistic Studies: Linguists and researchers must conduct comprehensive studies on Pothohari's phonetics, morphology, and syntax. These studies can highlight the distinctions that set it apart from neighboring languages.

  2. Historical Documentation: Detailed historical research is crucial for tracing the roots of Pothohari and its evolution over time. Understanding its historical context can strengthen its claim as a unique language.

  3. Comparative Analysis: Comparative linguistic analyses can establish the linguistic boundaries that distinguish Pothohari from Urdu and Punjabi. This research can provide empirical evidence supporting its status as a language.

5. Building Awareness and Advocacy

Raising awareness about Pothohari and advocating for its recognition as a language is a collective effort that requires collaboration between linguistic experts, educators, policymakers, and the Pothohari-speaking community.

  1. Community Engagement: Involving native speakers and community leaders in the advocacy process is essential. They can serve as ambassadors for Pothohari, sharing their experiences and stories to promote the language.

  2. Educational Initiatives: Integrating Pothohari into the curriculum of local schools and colleges can help future generations embrace and preserve their linguistic heritage.

  3. Government Support: Governments at the regional and national levels should acknowledge Pothohari as a language and provide resources for its promotion, including language courses and cultural events.

Conclusion

Elevating Pothohari to the status of a recognized language is a multifaceted endeavor that requires concerted efforts in script development, linguistic research, literary production, and advocacy. By addressing these key areas, Pothohari can assert its distinct linguistic identity while maintaining its historical and cultural ties to Urdu and Punjabi. Through collaboration and a shared commitment to preserving linguistic diversity, Pothohari can secure its rightful place among the world's recognized languages, enriching Pakistan's linguistic tapestry.