Negotiating Languages

Discover the intricate role of lexicographers in shaping the linguistic landscape of South Asia with Negotiating Languages by Walter N. Hakala. Published by Columbia University Press in 2016, this compelling hardback spans 320 pages and delves into the evolution of language during a pivotal time in history. Hakala illuminates how dictionaries became essential tools in the political realignment of South Asia under British rule and in the post-independence era. Explore the transformation of a single, mutually intelligible language into two distinct registers—Urdu and Hindi—each intertwined with contrasting religious and nationalist aspirations. This insightful examination not only enriches our understanding of historical linguistics but also sheds light on the sociolinguistic dynamics that continue to influence multiculturalism in the region today. Perfect for scholars and language enthusiasts alike, Negotiating Languages is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of language, politics, and identity.