Maithili language

Maithili

Pronunciation
Native to
Region	Mithila
Ethnicity
Speakers	34 million
Language family	Indo-European
Early forms
Writing system
Official status
Regulated by

Geographical distribution of the Maithili language.

Maithili (मैथिली) is an Indo-Aryan language spoken in the Mithila region of India and Nepal. It is one of the 22 scheduled languages of India and is recognized as a major language in Nepal. Maithili is primarily spoken in the Indian state of Bihar and the eastern Terai region of Nepal.

History

Maithili has a rich literary history dating back to the 14th century. It was traditionally written in the Tirhuta script, also known as Mithilakshar, but is now commonly written in the Devanagari script. The language has a significant body of literature, including poetry, drama, and prose.

Phonology

Maithili has a distinct phonological system with a variety of consonants and vowels. The language is known for its use of nasalized vowels and retroflex consonants.

The consonants of the Mithilakshar script and the corresponding Devanagari.

Writing System

Maithili was traditionally written in the Tirhuta script, which is an abugida similar to Devanagari. The script is still used by some communities, although Devanagari has become more prevalent due to its official status and ease of use in digital media.

A letter from the Tirhuta script.

Grammar

Maithili grammar is characterized by its use of postpositions rather than prepositions, a feature common in Indo-Aryan languages. It has a rich system of verb conjugation and noun declension, with distinctions made for gender, number, and case.

Literature

Maithili literature is renowned for its poetry and plays. The most famous poet in Maithili is Vidyapati, whose works have had a lasting impact on the language and culture of the region.

Current Status

Maithili is recognized as a major language in both India and Nepal. Efforts are ongoing to preserve and promote the language, including its inclusion in educational curricula and media.

Also see

• Mithila (region)
• Tirhuta script
• Indo-Aryan languages
• Vidyapati