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Marathi language

Adapted from Wikipedia · Explorer experience

Map showing where the Marathi language is spoken in India, based on 2011 census data.

Marathi Language

Marathi is a beautiful language spoken by many people in the state of Maharashtra. It is also used in nearby places like Goa, parts of Gujarat, Karnataka, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. In Maharashtra, Marathi is the main language, and it is one of the official languages in Goa too.

Marathi is very important in India. It is the third most spoken language in the country, after Hindustani and Bengali. The Government of India gave Marathi a special title of a classical language in 2024, showing how special it is.

Marathi has its own special sounds and ways of speaking. Words in Marathi can change their form depending on who you are talking to. The language also has three genders: masculine, feminine, and neuter, which makes it interesting to learn.

Fun Facts About Marathi

Marathi has a long history. It comes from old languages called Prakrits, especially one called Maharashtri. People have been writing in Marathi since the year 739! Over time, it became used in courts, books, and by holy people.

Marathi was very important during the time of the Maratha Empire. The leader Shivaji used Marathi in his court instead of other languages. This helped Marathi grow as an official language.

Today, Marathi is celebrated every year on February 27, known as Marathi Language Day. Schools and government offices hold special events to honor the language.

Marathi is spoken not just in India, but also in countries like Australia, Canada, USA, and the UK. Many people around the world keep their language alive by speaking it with family and friends.

Images

A Marathi sign board displaying local language text and symbols for public information.
Close-up of the feet of the Gommateshvara Statue, showcasing intricate stonework.
A collection of popular Marathi newspapers showcasing the Marathi script.
An example of a verse written in the historic Modi script.
A decorative stamp featuring the Marathi script, showcasing a unique writing style from India.

Related articles

This article is a child-friendly adaptation of the Wikipedia article on Marathi language, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Images from Wikimedia Commons. Tap any image to view credits and license.