The Impact of Islam on Bengali: From Medieval to Modern Language. - Subhajit Dey
Introduction: Bengali, one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, has a rich and diverse linguistic history that can be traced back to the ancient times. The language has been shaped by various historical, cultural, and religious influences, with Islam playing a significant role in its evolution. This article delves into the profound impact of Islam on the Bengali language from the medieval era to modern times, examining how the religion's teachings, literary traditions, and sociopolitical dynamics have contributed to the linguistic and cultural fabric of Bengal. Pattachitra painting depicting Purushottama Deva's Kanchi Abhiyan, image via Quora A s early as the 13th century, Muslim traders and Sufi missionaries began arriving in the region, gradually spreading the teachings of Islam across Bengal. Unlike in some other regions where Islam's propagation involved coercion or conquest, Bengal witnessed a peaceful assimilation of the religion. This peaceful coexiste