In Punjab, efforts for Urdu revival in Punjab are gaining momentum. While debates over Hindi and regional languages continue, two individuals are quietly promoting Urdu. ADGP Mohammad Faiyyaz Farooqui, a Persian language expert, has launched a YouTube channel, Urdu Adda. The channel teaches Urdu diction and pronunciation in a simple, engaging way. Farooqui emphasizes that Urdu is indigenous and belongs to all communities, not tied to any caste or religion.
Meanwhile, Patiala-based scholar Satdeep Gill, associated with Punjabi Wikipedia, started the Urdu Wikisource project in April. His aim is to make Urdu literature accessible online. Currently, ten books are being digitized for readers worldwide.
The Language Department’s first official Urdu book, Urdu Amoz, designed to teach Urdu via Punjabi, quickly sold out in 2023. However, classes have halted due to a lack of qualified Urdu teachers.
Through these digital platforms and community initiatives, both Farooqui and Gill hope to rekindle interest in Urdu’s poetic and cultural richness. The movement shows that Urdu revival in Punjab can thrive even beyond traditional classrooms.
