MOTHER TONGUE.

The article "MOTHER TONGUE" delves into the author's personal journey growing up in India and attending an English-medium school, despite her mother not speaking English. The author's mother, a teacher herself, wanted her to have opportunities and not face the same insecurities she had about not being fluent in English. However, the author's proficiency in English led to a sense of superiority and strained their relationship. The article also sheds light on the challenges faced by teachers in government schools and the sacrifices they make to provide education in remote areas. The text further explores the author's experience growing up in a Bengali household in India and the impact of colonialism on language and identity. The author discusses the pressure to speak English and the shame associated with not knowing the language. However, the author's mother instilled a pride in the Bengali language and culture, emphasizing the importance of both English and Bengali. The author reflects on the significance of language and the need to preserve it, highlighting the role of their mother in decolonizing their mind. [Extracted from the article]