The Status of the Arabic Language in the Indian Subcontinent

Abstract

Abstract
This article delves into the profound role the Arabic language has played in shaping India's Islamic heritage, highlighting the contributions of distinguished Indian scholars across various historical periods. Arabic was not just a language of communication but a medium for intellectual and scholarly exchange, fostering a rich tradition of academic excellence. The discussion begins with the Delhi Sultanate, the first Muslim government in India, where Arabic became a cornerstone of administration and scholarship. Scholars like Imam Razi al-Din al-Saghani, Imam Ahmed bin Omar Al-Zawi, and Jamal al-Din bin Nasir al-Din al-Hanafi made significant contributions to fields such as linguistics, hadith, and literature. The Mongol era further solidified Arabic’s role in religious and intellectual discourse, with figures like Shah Abd al-Haqq al-Muhaddith al-Dahlawi leading the way in hadith and jurisprudence. Even during the British colonial period, scholars like Sharif Siddiq Hassan Al-Husseini Al-Qanuji and Sayyed Abdul-Hay Al-Hasani worked tirelessly to preserve Arabic scholarship despite immense challenges. This article celebrates the enduring legacy of Arabic in India’s Islamic academic tradition and honors the scholars who dedicated their lives to its advancement.