Here's a breakdown:
* Origins: Marathi traces its roots back to the Prakrit languages spoken in the Deccan region of India.
* Early Forms: The earliest known written form of Marathi, called "Maharashtri Prakrit", dates back to the 2nd century BCE.
* Evolution: Over time, Maharashtri Prakrit evolved and branched out into different forms. By the 7th century CE, a distinct form of "Marathi" had emerged, influenced by Sanskrit and other regional languages.
* Development: Marathi continued to develop and flourish, with significant literary and cultural contributions.
* Modern Marathi: The modern form of Marathi, as we know it today, solidified around the 18th and 19th centuries.
Therefore, Marathi wasn't invented but rather developed organically over a long period. It's a rich and vibrant language with a deep history and cultural significance.