India and Bharata: A Study of the English Language

Abstract

This paper examines interconnection between the English language and historical, social and linguistic backgrounds of India. It focuses on the socioeconomic divide as well as some other barriers responsible for confining English language to the elite and upper middle class and leaving the major population of the country away from proper education. It also sheds light on the growth of urban-rural divide where the English speakers living in urban areas seek and enjoy lucrative jobs and businesses, and the poor people living in rural areas are unable to get English education and feel helpless. Comparison between private English schools and government schools has been made in terms of quality of education particularly in Hindi speaking states. It brings to light what India and Bharata connote to the people in context of English language teaching.