The Digital Journey of Regional Linguistic Identity
Rahul Mhaiskar
Dr. Rahul Mhaiskar, Assistant Professor, Department of Linguistics, Deccan College, Pune (Maharashtra), India.
Manuscript received on 22 May 2025 | First Revised Manuscript received on 07 June 2025 | Second Revised Manuscript received on 16 September 2025 | Manuscript Accepted on 15 October 2025 | Manuscript published on 30 October 2025 | PP: 1-6 | Volume-5 Issue-2, October 2025 | Retrieval Number: 100.1/ijml.B209405021025 | DOI: 10.54105/ijml.B2094.05021025
Open Access | Editorial and Publishing Policies | Cite | Zenodo | OJS | Indexing and Abstracting
© The Authors. Published by Lattice Science Publication (LSP). This is an open-access article under the CC-BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/)
Abstract: Varhadi and Nagpuri Marathi, key varieties spoken in the Vidarbha region of the State of Maharashtra, are thriving in the digital space, bridging traditional oral culture with modern technology. This study examines the representation of variety across various platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, as well as contributions from regional cinema and mobile apps. Data analysis highlights content categories such as comedy, lifestyle, tourism, education, and political discourse, with creators like Neha Thombre, Shashank Udakhe and Karale’s Phoenix Academy Wardha gaining significant traction. Films like Naal and shows like Fu Bai Fu, Chala Hava Yeu Dya, and Maharashtrachi Hasya Jatra showcase the authentic Varhadi Marathi character played by Marathi Actor Bharat Ganeshpure, while apps like the Varhadi Bible cater to cultural and religious contexts. Messaging platforms further enhance variety presence, enabling informal communication and cultural exchange. This research highlights how regional languages utilise digital media to preserve linguistic identity, foster cultural richness, and engage broader audiences, underscoring the potential of regional varieties to thrive in the era of digital transformation.
Keywords: Varhadi Marathi, Nagpuri Marathi, Digital Media, Regional Varieties, Vidarbha, Linguistic Identity.
Scope of the Article: Linguistics