Mumbai University to House Heritage Languages Centre
Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, performed the Bhoomi Poojan and laid the foundation stone for the Centre of Excellence in Heritage Languages & Cultural Studies at the University of Mumbai. The ceremony took place on September 15, 2025, at the university’s Vidyanagari Campus.
The new centre is designed to promote the study and preservation of India’s ancient languages and cultural traditions. It will focus on academic and cultural research, particularly on languages like Pali and Avesta-Pahlavi. According to the Ministry of Minority Affairs, the centre will undertake interdisciplinary research in areas such as environmental ethics and comparative global philosophy. A key objective is the digitisation of rare manuscripts, preserving ritual texts, oral traditions, and theological literature for future generations. The centre also plans to create grammar guides and dictionaries and foster collaborations with national and international scholars.
During the ceremony, Minister Rijiju emphasised the project’s significance, stating, “This program in Mumbai University is not just the beginning of courses, but is laying a strong foundation for India’s bright future, taking along rich cultural and linguistic heritage.” He praised the University of Mumbai for its unique contributions to India’s growth.
Government Initiatives for Minorities
Minister Rijiju highlighted the government’s commitment to minority communities. He specifically mentioned the Jiyo Parsi scheme, noting that India is the only country in the world making a special effort to increase the Parsi community’s population. He asserted that no other country cares for minorities the way India does.
Dr Chandra Shekhar Kumar, Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, added that the ministry is taking various steps to promote language studies and preserve the country’s diverse linguistic landscape. The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Mumbai, Prof (Dr) Ravindra Kulkarni, explained how the new centre will enhance the cultural value system and heritage.
The establishment of this centre reflects the Ministry of Minority Affairs’ commitment to empowering minority communities by promoting education, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring inclusive growth.
