Letters From a Father | Episode 23 | Language, Writing, and Numerals

 

In this letter, Nehru explores the origins and evolution of language, writing, and numerals. He begins by explaining how language may have started with simple cries of fear or warning, similar to the way animals communicate. Early humans likely developed basic words and labour cries when working together. Gradually, language evolved from single words to more complex sentences.

Nehru also touches on how, during early civilizations, language had already advanced, with songs and ballads being popular forms of communication. Bards and singers recited tales of heroism, reflecting society's focus on battle and bravery.

He discusses the origin of writing, which likely began as pictures representing objects. Over time, these pictures became simpler, leading to the development of alphabets. The invention of numerals was equally transformative, especially for business. Nehru explains the transition from Roman numerals to the more efficient "Arabic numerals," which were actually developed by Indians. (They are now called Hindu-Arabic numerals)

Thus, Nehru highlights the creativity and progress of early humans in developing systems of communication and counting.

Tags 
Jawaharlal Nehru Indira Gandhi letters
Pita ke Patra Putri ke Naam by Jawaharlal Nehru 
Letters from a Father to his Daughter 
Nehru ke patra Indira ko
Nehru’s Letters to Indira
पाठ 23 भाषा, लिखावट, और गिनती 
अध्याय २३ भाषा, लिखावट, और गिनती 
Lesson 23  Language, Writing, and Numerals