Surjit Patar explains why children should be taught their mother tongue

International Mother Language Day is an observance held annually on 21st February worldwide to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and multilingualism. To commemorate this day, we have talked to Dr Surjit Patar who is a renowned Punjabi language writer and poet.

Dr Surjit Patar with SBS host Preetinder Grewal Source: Supplied

Dr Patar has won Padma Shri, Sahitiya Academy and numerous other awards for his contribution to Punjabi language.

In this conversation with SBS Punjabi, he provides some suggestions on how Non-Resident Punjabis can preserve their mother language, Punjabi.

While accepting the fact that English is the universally accepted language, Mr Patar said that this recognition should not be at the cost and status of the mother tongue Punjabi.