It's impossible to pinpoint an exact date for the invention of Urdu. Urdu evolved over centuries, drawing influences from various languages and cultures.
A Blend of Influences
Urdu emerged from the interaction of Persian, Arabic, and local Indian languages, particularly Hindi. It developed as a spoken language among the Delhi Sultanate's elite in the 12th century.
While the exact date of its birth is unclear, the 18th century marks a significant turning point. During this period, Urdu literature flourished, with renowned poets like Mir Taqi Mir and Mirza Ghalib contributing to its standardization and popularity.
A Language of Many Names
The term "Urdu" is derived from the Turkish word "ordu," meaning "camp" or "army." This reflects the language's origins among the Mughal army, where soldiers from different backgrounds interacted and developed a common tongue.
Urdu is closely related to Hindi, and the two languages share a common ancestor. However, they diverged over time due to different influences and scripts. Urdu uses the Perso-Arabic script, while Hindi predominantly uses Devanagari.
A Living Legacy
Today, Urdu is an official language of Pakistan and India, and it enjoys widespread use in other countries as well. Its rich literary tradition and influence on popular culture continue to shape the language and its global reach.
