Pune News: Controversy Surrounds Marathi Poem in Textbook

Poem's Content and Criticism

A poem featured in the Balbharati Marathi textbook for young children has recently sparked controversy. The poem, titled "Janglaat Tharli Maifal" (The Gathering Decided in the Forest), has come under scrutiny due to the inclusion of English and Hindi words. This development has ignited a debate about literary and educational standards.

The poem, written by the renowned poet Purnima Bhave, is intended to instill a love for the Marathi language in first-grade students. However, its inclusion in the curriculum has raised concerns. Critics argue that the use of English words like "once more" and "mouse," as well as the Hindi word "shor" (noise), undermines the quality and objective of the poem.

Educational Impact and Responses

Since its introduction in the curriculum in 2017, this poem had not faced any objections until now. The textbook's publisher, Balbharati, which is responsible for developing educational materials, has defended the poem, explaining that the inclusion of non-Marathi words was meant to enhance the poem’s rhyming scheme.

Cultural and Linguistic Concerns

The controversy highlights a broader issue of preserving the Marathi language and promoting its use among young learners. Many Marathi-speaking individuals and organizations, such as the Maharashtra State Literary Board and the Marathi Sahitya Parishad, consistently advocate for the promotion of Marathi language and literature. Government initiatives and the active participation of notable writers and literary figures support these efforts.

Given this context, the concern that young children might not have access to pure and rich Marathi literature, especially at an age when they are forming their linguistic and cultural identity, is seen as a significant issue. The inclusion of non-native words in educational materials raises questions about maintaining linguistic integrity and the effectiveness of educational resources.