Amit Shah Unveils Museum of Word to Celebrate India’s Linguistic Legacy

New Delhi, July 20, 2026 India’s linguistic diversity took centre stage as Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah inaugurated the first phase of the Museum of Word in Kolkata. Developed by the Ministry of Culture, the museum has been designed to preserve and showcase the evolution of language through visual, auditory and immersive experiences, reflecting the country’s rich cultural and literary heritage while embracing modern technology. Addressing the gathering, Shah said the museum gives concrete shape to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of cultural resurgence and will preserve India’s multilingual traditions for future generations. “Today, this Museum of Word is giving concrete shape to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s resolve for the cultural renaissance of the nation,” he said. Stressing the close relationship between language, words and culture, he added, “Language is shaped by words, words are shaped by emotions, and culture is shaped by language. Without understanding this journey, the cultural renaissance of India cannot be complete.” Shah explained that the museum presents India’s linguistic journey from Omkar, Panini’s grammar, the Shruti and Smriti traditions, manuscripts and inscriptions to the printing press, digital archives and Artificial Intelligence in an interactive format. Calling for the museum to evolve alongside technological advancements, Shah said, “The Museum of Word should be expanded to encompass digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence, enabling Indian languages to evolve in line with the technologies of the future.” He also said India has always embraced innovation while preserving its cultural roots, adding, “We have never shied away from innovation and have always embraced all that is noble and auspicious. That is why, despite countless challenges and assaults, our cultural journey stands as steadfast as the Himalayas.” Shah praised the Ministry of Culture for transforming India’s intangible linguistic heritage into a visual, auditory, tactile and immersive experience, while encouraging families, educational institutions, libraries and museums to play a greater role in promoting Indian languages. He also urged young people to learn at least one additional Indian language alongside their mother tongue. Referring to West Bengal’s cultural legacy, Shah said the state has long been a centre of India’s civilisational consciousness and expressed confidence that it would once again emerge as a leading hub of intellectual and cultural thought. He also noted that the inauguration coincides with the 150th anniversary of Vande Mataram and highlighted the Centre’s decision to grant Classical Language status to Bengali in 2024. Concluding his address, Shah said, “Let us resolve to build a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and restore India’s position as a Vishwa Guru, drawing strength from our words, our culture and our self-confidence.”