Interdisciplinary Exploration: Marathi and English in Science & Technology

Understanding Science and Technology through the Lens of Marathi and English

Marathi is one of India's ancient languages with a rich history spanning centuries. Its coexistence with English, the global lingua franca of modern scientific communication, presents an intriguing confluence of knowledge systems. In this exploration, we will delve into how these two languages intersect within the realms of science and technology.

Language and Education

The Government of Maharashtra has been actively promoting both languages in school curricula since its education reform initiative dubbed "Mission Kaka Aamchi" ("Kakasaheb Our Own"). This effort ensures students receive adequate exposure to Marathi while also developing competency in English for successful participation in global academic spheres. With an increasing number of higher educational institutions offering courses in engineering, medicine, pharmaceuticals, and other STEM fields in Marathi, the integration of technical concepts and their dissemination via local vernacular represents a significant step forward in accessibility.

Connecting Science and Culture

Science and technology have always been closely tied to cultural traditions. For instance, Ayurveda—an indigenous medical system rooted in Indian culture—has witnessed widespread recognition from international academia due to its applicability for contemporary health issues. Likewise, Marathi literature reflects many aspects of traditional sciences such as astronomy, botany, sociology, and physics throughout several literary works, providing unique perspectives on various scientific phenomena.

Bilingual Scientific Communication

English serves as a universal bridge for scientific discourse; however, it does not inherently possess all the tools necessary to accurately convey complex cultural contexts embedded in scientific outcomes. Consequently, researchers worldwide increasingly integrate their native languages when presenting their findings. As exemplified by scholars like Vaman Shivaram Apte, who authored "Amarakosha," a multireligious Sanskrit dictionary encompassing organic chemistry, linguistics, anthropology, and ethnobotany, bilingualism can greatly enhance our understanding of diverse cultures and scientific pursuits.

In conclusion, the amalgamation of Marathi and English within the realm of science and technology offers a comprehensive perspective of knowledge acquisition, bolstering the development of critical thinking skills and fostering cross-cultural collaboration among learners. By embracing multiple languages, we acquire deeper insights into human civilization, enabling us to surmount geographical barriers in knowledge sharing and construct groundbreaking bridges between communities.