Languages of Kokrajhar: The district, located in the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam, is a linguistically diverse district where several languages are spoken, reflecting the region’s rich cultural heritage. The primary languages spoken in Kokrajhar are Bodo, Assamese, and Bengali, each playing a significant role in the lives of the local population.
Boro or Bodo
Bodo is the most widely spoken language in Kokrajhar, particularly among the indigenous Bodo people, who form the largest ethnic group in the region. Bodo is an official language of the Bodoland Territorial Region and holds cultural significance for the Bodo community. It is a Tibeto-Burman language, and efforts have been made to promote its use in education, administration, and media. Bodo literature, traditional songs, and dances are vital aspects of the community’s cultural expression.
Assamese
Assamese, the state’s official language, is also spoken by a significant portion of the population in Kokrajhar. It serves as a common language for communication between various ethnic groups and is widely used in government administration, education, and media. Assamese has a rich literary history and is integral to the state’s identity, making it an essential language for both locals and outsiders.
Bengali
Bengali is another prominent language spoken by a substantial number of people in Kokrajhar, particularly among the Bengali migrant community. It is used in daily conversations, trade, and business, and many Bengali-speaking individuals also contribute to the region’s cultural life through literature, festivals, and traditions.
The linguistic diversity in Kokrajhar reflects the region’s multiculturalism and plays a role in fostering a harmonious blend of traditions and cultures. The coexistence of Bodo, Assamese, and Bengali speakers contributes to the social fabric of the district, promoting unity amidst diversity.
Statistics
As per the 2011 census, 28.39% of the population spoke Boro, 19.92% spoke Assamese, 17.78% spoke Bengali, 11.90% spoke Santali, 7.62% spoke Rajbongshi, and 1.21% spoke Garo as their mother tongue. Among the languages of Kokrajhar, majority of people speak Boro.