Aishwarya Khare on How Hindi Shaped Her Identity on International Mother Language Day

Mar, 7 2025

Celebrating Linguistic Diversity and Cultural Heritage

Every year on February 21, International Mother Language Day reminds us of the importance of preserving the world's linguistic diversity. Since its inception by UNESCO in 1999, the day has honored the struggles to protect native languages and recognizes their vital role in cultural identity. It's a day to raise awareness about the beauty and necessity of keeping these languages alive, as they are carriers of history, knowledge, and personal identity.

For Aishwarya Khare, who stars as Lakshmi in the popular TV show Bhagya Lakshmi, Hindi is much more than just a language. It is the core of her identity. Khare shares her deep-rooted connection to Hindi, illustrating how it has been part of her life from an early age, through her mother's soothing lullabies to her father's engaging bedtime stories. These early experiences formed a foundation of warmth and familiarity that have stuck with her through the years.

Hindi's Role in Shaping Aishwarya's Identity

Khare talks about a particularly defining moment in her life—winning her first debate competition in Hindi, which filled her with a sense of pride and confidence that has lasted to this day. This experience was pivotal, reaffirming her belief that expressing herself in her mother language was not just natural but empowering.

In her professional life, Hindi continues to play a central role. On the sets of Bhagya Lakshmi, delivering Hindi dialogues feels as natural to Khare as breathing. It's like an extension of her thoughts and emotions, reinforcing its role as the 'language of her emotions.' For Khare, speaking in Hindi is not just a job requirement, but a joyful, fulfilling experience that connects her to her roots.

Khare’s story is a reminder of the power and importance of native languages in shaping who we are. They serve as bridges to our past and guides for future generations. On International Mother Language Day, her reflections encourage us all to cherish and nurture our mother tongues, acknowledging the role they play in defining our emotions, our thoughts, and ultimately, our identity.