Exploring Linguistic and Cultural Ideologies
Urdu's Acceptance in Islamabad's Pashtun, Punjabi, and Kashmiri Communities
Keywords:
Linguistics ideologies, Culture ideologies, Multilingualism, National language, Official language, ethnic groupsAbstract
Pakistan is a linguistically and culturally diverse nation in which Urdu functions as a central unifying language among numerous ethnic groups. However, the degree to which Urdu is accepted as an official and national language varies across communities, largely due to the linguistic and cultural ideologies held by Pashtuns, Punjabis, and Kashmiris residing in Islamabad. This qualitative study explores how such ideologies shape attitudes toward Urdu’s official status. Using language ideology as the guiding theoretical framework, data were collected from thirty participants—ten from each community—through purposive sampling and semi-structured interviews. The findings reaffirm Urdu’s significant role as a symbol of national cohesion, yet also reveal concerns regarding the marginalisation of regional languages within media, education, and public discourse. The results underscore the need for more inclusive and culturally sensitive language policies that safeguard Pakistan’s multilingual heritage and promote equitable linguistic representation.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Rizwan Ahmad, Roshan Jadoon, Zeeshan Ahmad, Wasifa Khan, Ameer Ul Mulk (Author)
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