Why Most Marwari Families in Kolkata Have Not Adopted Bengali

The Marwari community in Kolkata has a rich history, having settled in the city as traders and businesspeople for generations. Despite their long-standing presence, the adoption of the Bengali language among Marwari families has been limited. This article explores the various factors contributing to this phenomenon, including cultural identity, economic focus, community cohesion, historical context, and perceived barriers.

Cultural Identity

The Marwari community places a high value on their cultural identity, which is closely tied to their origins in Rajasthan. Many families in Kolkata prioritize their native language, Marwari or Hindi, as a means of preserving their cultural heritage. This strong emphasis on cultural roots can lead to a preference for maintaining their traditional linguistic practices.

Economic Focus

Marwaris in Kolkata are primarily engaged in business and trade, often conducting their professional interactions in Hindi or English. This economic focus can reduce the necessity to learn Bengali, as they can conduct business effectively without it. Furthermore, the language barriers can be seen as an advantage, as it maintains a degree of distinction and may protect their business interests from broader cultural influences.

Community Cohesion

The Marwari community is known for its close-knit nature. Social and cultural activities are often conducted in Marwari or Hindi, creating a vibrant and supportive community environment. This tight-knit community support system can lead to a limited need for Bengali in everyday life, as the Marwari community tends to fulfill most social and cultural needs within their own network.

Historical Context

During the colonial period and post-independence, the Marwari community established itself as a prominent economic force in Kolkata. Often, their interactions were primarily with other business communities rather than with the local Bengali population. This historical context may have contributed to a lack of linguistic integration, as the Marwaris were more likely to form economic alliances with compatriots rather than with Bengalis.

Perceived Barriers

Some members of the Marwari community might perceive the Bengali language as a barrier. Learning it could potentially complicate their established way of life and business practices. This perception of barriers may further reinforce the preference for maintaining their native languages.

Generational Language Shift

While older generations may stick to their native languages, younger Marwaris might be more open to learning Bengali. However, this varies widely based on individual family values and social circles. As the community evolves, there may be a shift in generational attitudes towards the adoption of Bengali, though this process is not uniform across all families.

Overall, while many Marwari families have been in Kolkata for generations, a combination of cultural pride, economic considerations, and community dynamics contributes to the limited use of the Bengali language among them. It is important to acknowledge that the situation is nuanced and influenced by various social and historical factors.

Additional Observations

It is worth noting that not all Marwaris are linguistically isolated. Most of the Marwari families I have met in Kolkata do know Bengali and are well-integrated. Despite this, there are occasional points of friction and stereotypes that exist between the two communities. This goes both ways, with Bengalis also having stereotypes about the Marwari community. However, there is also peace and mutual respect in their coexistence.

One can see a portrayal of Marwari families in Burra Bazar, Kolkata, from the 19th century, which offers insight into their cultural and social lives during that period.