Early Language Fascination
Growing up in the vibrant Indian cities of Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai during the 1970s and '80s, my linguistic journey began with fluency in Marathi
and Tamil, and comprehension of Bengali. The decision to pursue French in Class VIII was initially driven by its reputation as an easy subject and the sophisticated charm of its pronunciation. Compared to the intricacies of Indian grammar, French syntax felt surprisingly manageable. Our textbook, a vintage piece, vividly portrayed the daily life of the Vincent family, offering a window into French culture through detailed descriptions of their routines and belongings. This early exposure ignited a passion that would lead to further exploration.
Expanding Linguistic Horizons
My formal language studies extended beyond school, with proficiency certificates from Alliance Française for French and later, German from Max Mueller Bhavan during college. The academic pursuit of languages culminated in a Master's in French at JNU, where my philological curiosity propelled me to study Italian at the Italian Cultural Centre. This intensified passion not only earned me a second Master's degree but also a Master of Philosophy and a lifelong appreciation for Italian cuisine. These formative years were enriched by diverse cultural experiences, from theatre and cinema to gastronomy and international politics, all explored through the medium of language.
Becoming a Cultural Bridge
Engaging with native speakers of the languages I studied transformed me into an informal cultural ambassador. Beyond practicing my fluency, I found myself frequently explaining aspects of India, such as the significance of the bindi, the dynamics of Indian cuisine, the complexities of the caste system, and the diversity of our religions. I was often asked to demonstrate "Indianness," and a moment of shared wonder occurred when I presented an Indian banknote, showcasing its array of scripts. Encounters on public transport, with strangers curious about India, led to spontaneous conversations. Women would inquire about henna artistry or the art of draping a sari. This role fostered a desire to accurately represent my country, prompting me to delve deeper into what constitutes Indian identity.
Introspection and Connection
The experience of navigating foreign languages surprisingly deepened my understanding of my own linguistic landscape. Among fellow Indian and South Asian students in Europe, we would often switch to Hindi, Bengali, or Tamil to share private jokes and observations. While occasionally striving for linguistic purity, we relied on recalling phrases from movies or personal experiences to maintain our private commentary. When our native tongues failed us, we'd converse in the European language, much to the amusement of locals who questioned our choice. This process of learning about 'otherness' compelled us to reflect on and appreciate our own cultural and linguistic heritage.
Cognitive and Global Benefits
Decades spent teaching French and Italian revealed the profound cognitive benefits of language acquisition. The mental exertion involved in learning a new language activates numerous neural pathways, and research links it to a slowed progression of neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and dementia. In an era where AI can handle translation, the human element of language learning remains irreplaceable. While apps can teach grammar and vocabulary, they cannot replicate the empathy and connection fostered through genuine human interaction. Exposure to foreign cultures via their languages cultivates tolerance, understanding, and better global citizenship, essential for navigating our interconnected yet often conflicted world.
