Amid criticism from the Kerala government over the use of Hindi names for English-medium textbooks, the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has defended its decision, emphasizing that the titles are inspired by India’s shared cultural and musical heritage—not intended as linguistic imposition.
The row began when Kerala Education Minister V Sivankutty condemned the naming of English textbooks with Hindi-origin words, calling it a violation of federal principles and an affront to linguistic diversity. “It is absolutely wrong to replace long-standing English titles to impose uniformity. English-medium students deserve English titles. Education should empower, not impose,” he said.
Responding to the criticism, NCERT told that the new naming approach aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for cultural rootedness and joyful learning. Textbooks have been renamed after Indian classical musical elements like Santoor, Poorvi, Bansuri, Malhar, Mridang, and Veena, representing what NCERT calls a “universal language of joy.”
“These titles are drawn from India’s rich musical heritage, which transcends regional languages and unites cultural traditions across the country,” NCERT said. “They are not about language preference, but about invoking shared cultural pride and identity.”
As part of the National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCFSE) 2023, NCERT has been rolling out redesigned textbooks in phases. While the older Class 6 and 7 English books were titled Honeysuckle and Honeycomb, the revised versions are now called Poorvi. Similarly, Marigold, the previous Class 4 English book, has been renamed Santoor.
NCERT explained that names like Mridang (inspired by the Carnatic instrument Mridangam) and Santoor (a Kashmiri folk instrument) were chosen to reflect pan-Indian cultural influences, not just Hindi-centric traditions. The titles are also meant to evoke familiarity and pride among students, enhancing engagement through culturally resonant symbols.
The council also highlighted similar cultural references in other subjects, such as the new math textbook titled Ganit Prakash, which pays tribute to India’s historical mathematical achievements by legends like Aryabhata, Bhaskaracharya, and Srinivasa Ramanujan.
“Textbook naming is not new,” NCERT noted. “These names carry deep cultural and linguistic value and help students connect with their Indian heritage from the start of their learning journey.”
To address concerns about language accessibility, NCERT added that all books are being translated into all 22 scheduled Indian languages, ensuring inclusive learning for students across linguistic backgrounds.
“These are not names of imposition, but of celebration and unity in diversity,” the NCERT concluded.
