The Languages of Meghalaya, Volume 19, Part 2

This nineteenth volume of the People’s Linguistic Survey of India attempts to document the languages of the State of Meghalaya, beginning at the grassroots and involving speakers from all walks of life, so as to bring to readers the linguistic and cultural heritage of the state. Apart from the dominant languages spoken in the state, Khasi, Pnar and Garo, the varieties of these languages too are described in great detail. Care has been taken to record the voices of the informants in the true nature of the survey, so that the volume is not a mere cataloguing of languages, but mirrors the spirit and world view of the speakers. For languages are an extension of people’s existence and being.


In the discussions about the languages, there is information about their contemporary status, while the sections on the main languages also contain information about their historical evolution and structural aspects. The linguistic maps included in the volume also give a general idea of areas where the main languages are spoken. It is hoped that this volume will not only engage the reader, but will also stand as testimony to a people’s search for their roots.