Bihari languages facts for kids

Bihari is a group of Indic languages. These languages are mainly spoken in parts of Bihar in India and also in some areas of Bangladesh. They are part of a larger family of languages called Indo-Aryan, which includes many languages spoken across India and neighboring countries.

What are Bihari Languages?

Bihari languages are a collection of different languages and dialects. They are spoken by millions of people. These languages are mostly found in the Indian state of Bihar. Some are also spoken in parts of Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal. You can also find speakers in countries like Nepal and Mauritius.

Where are Bihari Languages Spoken?

The main home of Bihari languages is the state of Bihar in eastern India. Bihar is known for its rich history and culture. Many people in Bihar speak one of these languages daily.

Beyond India: Bihari Speakers Around the World

Bihari languages have traveled far. People from Bihar moved to other countries for work or other reasons. They took their languages with them. For example, Fiji Hindi and Sarnami Hindustani are forms of Bihari languages. They are spoken in places like Fiji and Suriname. This shows how languages can spread and change over time.

Main Bihari Languages

There are several important languages within the Bihari group. Each has its own unique features.

Bhojpuri

Bhojpuri is one of the most widely spoken Bihari languages. It is popular in western Bihar and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Bhojpuri is also spoken in parts of Nepal and by many people in the Caribbean. It has a rich tradition of folk songs and movies.

Maithili

Maithili is another major Bihari language. It is spoken in northern Bihar and parts of Nepal. Maithili is special because it is recognized as one of India's official languages. This means it has a higher status and is used in education and government. It has a long history of literature and poetry.

Magahi

Magahi is spoken in central and southern Bihar. It is closely related to Bhojpuri and Maithili. Magahi has its own unique sounds and grammar. It is an important language for understanding the history of the region.

Other Important Bihari Languages

Besides these three, there are other languages in the Bihari group. These include:

• Angika
• Kudmali
• Panchpargania
• Sadri (also known as Oraon Sadri)
• Surajpuri

These languages are spoken by different communities. They add to the rich language diversity of the region.

History of Bihari Languages

Bihari languages come from ancient Indian languages. They are part of the Indo-Aryan family. This family includes languages like Hindi and Bengali. Over many centuries, these languages developed their own distinct forms.

How Languages Change Over Time

Languages are always changing. They borrow words from other languages. Their sounds and grammar can also shift. Bihari languages have been influenced by many cultures. This includes influences from ancient Sanskrit and later from Persian and English.

Why are Bihari Languages Important?

Bihari languages are important for many reasons. They help people communicate and share their culture.

Connecting People and Culture

Languages are a big part of a community's identity. They carry stories, songs, and traditions. Bihari languages help connect people to their heritage. They allow them to express their unique way of life.

Preserving Heritage

Learning and speaking these languages helps keep them alive. It ensures that the rich cultural heritage of Bihar continues for future generations. Many efforts are made to promote these languages. This includes teaching them in schools and creating new literature.