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Punjabi is a language that has a rich history and cultural significance, with a strong presence in several countries. It is a member of the Indo-Aryan language family and is primarily spoken by the Punjabi people, who are one of the major ethnic groups in South Asia. The language has a substantial number of speakers not only in its native regions but also in various parts of the world due to migration and the diaspora.

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Punjabi Language Distribution

The Punjabi language is predominantly spoken in the Punjab region, which spans across two countries: Pakistan and India. Within Pakistan, it is the most widely spoken language, particularly in the province of Punjab, which is the country's most populous province. In India, Punjabi is the official language of the state of Punjab and is also spoken in the neighboring states of Haryana, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu and Kashmir.

In terms of ranking, Punjabi is the **11th most widely spoken language in India**, reflecting the vast number of speakers it has within the country. When considering the entire Indian Subcontinent, Punjabi stands as the third-most spoken native language, after Hindi and Bengali.

The global reach of Punjabi is also notable. It has a significant presence in the United Kingdom, where it is the fourth-most spoken language. This is largely due to historical ties and immigration patterns, as many Punjabis have made the UK their home over the past several decades. The language's influence is particularly strong in urban areas with sizable Punjabi communities.

Similarly, in Canada, Punjabi holds the position of the third-most spoken native language, trailing only English and French. The Canadian Punjabi community is well-established and contributes significantly to the cultural diversity of the country.

Diaspora and Cultural Influence

The Punjabi diaspora has also spread the language to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is spoken among the sizable Punjabi immigrant population. Other countries with notable Punjabi-speaking communities include Australia, New Zealand, and various countries in the Middle East, particularly in the Gulf States where many Punjabis have sought employment opportunities.

The cultural influence of Punjabi extends beyond its speakers. The language has given birth to a rich literary tradition, including the sacred text of Sikhism, the Guru Granth Sahib. It is also closely associated with Bhangra music and dance, which have become popular worldwide.

Language Preservation and Promotion

Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the Punjabi language. In India and Pakistan, there are numerous educational institutions and media outlets that cater to Punjabi speakers. Additionally, the language is taught in various schools and universities around the world, ensuring its continued survival and relevance in the global linguistic landscape.

In conclusion, the Punjabi language is a vibrant and significant part of the linguistic tapestry of several countries. Its speakers can be found in large numbers in Pakistan and India, with substantial communities in the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and beyond. The cultural richness and global reach of Punjabi make it an important language to study and understand.

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PakistanPunjabi is spoken as a native language by over 44.15% of Pakistanis. About 70.0% of the people of Pakistan speak Punjabi as either their first or second language, and for some as their third language. Lahore, the capital of the Punjab Province of Pakistan, is the largest Punjabi-speaking city in the world.read more >>