Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Museum of Word, also known as Shabdalok, in Kolkata on July 19, 2026 [1].
The opening of the facility marks a significant effort to document and preserve the linguistic diversity of the region. By establishing a dedicated space for language, the government aims to strengthen the link between national identity and the country's diverse cultural roots.
During the event, Shah described the relationship between speech and society. "Culture originates from language and words form the foundation of civilisation, literature and identity," Shah said [2]. He said that Indian languages are integral to the nation's collective heritage and must be protected from erosion in a globalized world.
Shah also addressed the younger generation, urging them to expand their linguistic capabilities beyond their primary dialects. He said every young person should learn at least one Indian language besides their mother tongue [2]. This initiative is designed to foster greater connectivity and understanding across different states, and ethnic groups.
The Museum of Word is recognized as India's first language museum [3]. Located in West Bengal, the institution serves as a repository for the evolution of words and the stories they carry. The project seeks to highlight how language shapes the way citizens perceive their history and social structures.
Shah said that the preservation of these languages is not merely an academic exercise but a necessity for maintaining the country's cultural integrity. He said that the foundation of a civilization is built upon its words, and losing those words would mean losing a part of the national soul [2].
“Culture originates from language and words form the foundation of civilisation, literature and identity.”
The establishment of Shabdalok reflects a broader strategic push by the Indian government to promote indigenous languages as a tool for national integration. By encouraging the youth to become multilingual within the Indian context, the administration is attempting to counter the dominance of English and preserve regional identities that are central to the country's social fabric.
