1. Sanskrit Roots:
* The word "Hindi" ultimately derives from the Sanskrit word "सिन्धु" (Sindhu), which referred to the Indus River and the land surrounding it.
* Over time, "Sindhu" evolved into "Hind" and "Hindustan" in Persian and Arabic, becoming the common term for the region of the Indian subcontinent.
2. Persian Influence:
* When Persian speakers interacted with people from the Indian subcontinent, they began using the term "Hindavi" to refer to the languages spoken in that region.
* This term was further adopted by the Mughal Empire, and later by the British colonial administration.
3. "Hindi" emerges:
* The word "Hindi" itself, as we know it today, is believed to have emerged as a shortened form of "Hindavi" during the 17th and 18th centuries.
* It gained prominence as a language during the British Raj when it was used as a lingua franca for administrative purposes, particularly in the northern and central parts of India.
4. "Hindi" vs. "Hindustani":
* It's important to note that "Hindi" and "Hindustani" are closely related.
* "Hindustani" is considered a broader term encompassing both the "Hindi" and "Urdu" languages, which share a common origin and have strong mutual influences.
* The distinction between "Hindi" and "Urdu" often revolves around script ( Devanagari for Hindi, Nastaliq for Urdu) and cultural associations.
5. Standardization and Modern Usage:
* The modern "Hindi" language, with its standardized grammar and vocabulary, was largely shaped during the 20th century through the efforts of scholars and writers.
* Today, "Hindi" is one of the official languages of India, spoken by millions of people across the country and beyond.
In summary, the name "Hindi" emerged as a combination of linguistic evolution, cultural interaction, and historical circumstances. It represents a complex linguistic tapestry that reflects the rich and diverse history of India.