.png)
Indigenous and Endangered Languages Lab (IELLAB)
​
Centre for Indigenous Languages, University of Madras
A CSR Initiative Of
Explore Language Diversity
Preserving Voices, Securing Futures
A language is far more than a tool for communication; it is a living repository of a community's soul. Encoded within its unique grammar, vocabulary, and oral traditions are generations of irreplaceable wisdom—about the environment, medicine, art, and what it means to be human.
​
When a language falls silent, it creates a permanent void in our collective human heritage. This loss is not just a tragedy for the community of speakers, but for all of humanity. Preserving an endangered language is an act of cultural justice and intellectual conservation. It empowers communities by affirming their identity, honouring their ancestors, and securing their cultural sovereignty. By working to protect these linguistic treasures, we are not just saving words; we are safeguarding the diverse ways of thinking, being, and knowing that enrich our world.
​
​
Introduction
Welcome to the Indigenous and Endangered Languages Lab (IELLAB). India is home to a rich tapestry of languages, a vibrant testimony to our diverse cultural heritage. Yet, a significant number of these voices are fading, with many languages facing the risk of falling silent forever. When a language disappears, we lose more than just words; we lose a unique worldview, an irreplaceable cultural identity, and generations of ancestral knowledge.
​
Established at the University of Madras under the Centre For Endangered Languages with CSR support from the Karur Vysya Bank, IELLAB is a dedicated initiative to confront this challenge. We are committed to the documentation, preservation, and revitalisation of India's linguistic diversity. Our work is driven by a collaborative spirit, partnering directly with speaker communities to ensure their linguistic and cultural legacies are documented with respect and carried forward for future generations.
Blog Posts
Research
Our Ongoing Projects
Resources
Language Details
Explore a vast array of resources dedicated to indigenous and endangered languages. From linguistic studies to cultural insights, our library is a treasure trove for language enthusiasts.
Studies
Cultural Insights
Delve into the depths of various languages with detailed research studies and academic papers. Our commitment to preserving linguistic diversity is reflected in our comprehensive studies.
Documentation
Language Preservation
Our lab is dedicated to documenting indigenous languages to ensure their preservation for future generations. Discover our ongoing documentation projects aimed at safeguarding linguistic heritage.