Becoming an insider: The transformative power of learning local languages

The language debate in Karnataka has resurfaced, sparked by recent incidents in Bengaluru. An electronic display at a hotel proclaimed, “Hindi is the official language.” While it could be condoned as a grammatical error – Hindi is an official language – the deeper issue lies in the perceived imposition of Hindi, which has long been a contentious topic. Tensions flared during Karnataka Rajyotsava on November 1, a day celebrating the state’s linguistic and cultural identity. A viral video showed a Kannadiga confronting a long-time Bengaluru resident who had never learned Kannada. The man’s dismissive response struck a nerve. Soon after, two tourists wearing t-shirts declaring “Hindi, National Language”—a claim that is legally false and culturally insensitive—faced backlash. Amid the uproar, Zoho founder Sridhar Vembu argued that those settling in a region should learn its language. These incidents raise a fundamental question: how important is it to learn the language of the place you call home?

Language as identity, connection

Language is more than a communication tool—it’s a gateway to culture, values, and identity. Psychologists suggest that even basic knowledge of the local language bridges cultural gaps and fosters empathy. Studies show bilingual individuals are often more attuned to others’ perspectives. Learning a new language offers insight into local customs, traditions, and even humour.

For instance, understanding regional idioms or proverbs creates a deeper connection to a community’s way of thinking. From a practical standpoint, knowing the local language enriches daily life. While Hindi and English are widely spoken in India, Kannada remains Bengaluru’s primary language. Many locals understand Hindi and English, but that doesn’t mean they prefer them. Communication isn’t just about comprehension—it’s about emotional connection. Learning Kannada builds a sense of belonging, while refusing to do so can create distance and resentment. It’s the difference between feeling like a welcomed guest and feeling like an outsider.

Choosing not to learn the local language can send unintended messages. At times, it’s perceived as linguistic arrogance—the belief that one’s own language is sufficient everywhere. In India, where linguistic pride runs deep, such attitudes fuel friction. Not learning Kannada may inadvertently suggest it’s less valuable than Hindi or English. This frustration grows when non-Kannada speakers expect locals to adapt instead. The misconception that Hindi is India’s national language—when, in fact, the Constitution recognises no such designation—only adds to tensions. Every state’s official language is tied to its cultural identity, making this debate about more than communication—it’s about respect.

Karnataka isn’t alone in this struggle. Similar debates have unfolded in Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. In Mumbai, recurring campaigns advocate for learning Marathi, while Tamil Nadu has long resisted Hindi imposition, reinforcing Tamil’s primacy. These discussions reveal a broader truth: languages are deeply personal, and dismissing them is often seen as dismissing the people who speak them.

The power of effort

Research shows that learning a new language broadens perspectives and furthers social acceptance. Many non-Kannada speakers in Bengaluru have embraced the language, building deeper connections with the city. Take the student from Madhya Pradesh who not only learned Kannada but also wrote a book in it, documenting her journey. Her efforts transformed a temporary stay into a meaningful cultural exchange. Mutual respect is transformative. When locals see outsiders making an effort, they often respond with warmth. Conversely, when language divides persist, relationships grow strained.

Importantly, learning a language doesn’t require mastery—even basic proficiency makes a difference. A shopkeeper’s delight when greeted in Kannada, or a rickshaw driver’s surprise at hearing directions in the local tongue, turns routine interactions into shared experiences. These small gestures promote goodwill, making daily life more pleasant.

At its heart, the language debate is about coexistence in an interconnected world. Moving to a new place comes with the responsibility of adapting to its culture, and language is a powerful way to do so. Whether it’s Kannada in Bengaluru, Tamil in Chennai, Marathi in Mumbai, or Bengali in Kolkata, engaging with the local language is more than politeness—it’s an act of connection.

As India urbanises and migration increases, these debates will persist. But instead of seeing language as a barrier, it should be viewed as a bridge—a shared cultural space where diverse communities thrive. The key lies in balancing respect for regional identities with openness to adaptation.

In a linguistically diverse nation, language isn’t just about speaking; it’s about listening, understanding, and forming deeper human connections. At the end of the day, it’s not about rigid boundaries but finding common ground through words, culture, and the willingness to learn. A little effort in learning the local language can transform a new place into your home.

(The writer is an education consultant and former dean, Christ Deemed to be University)