Yale Students Can Now Study Telugu, One of India’s Classical Languages Spoken by more than 83 Million People
An exciting new opportunity for language study is now available to Yale’s undergraduate and graduate students. The South Asian Studies Council (SASC) at the MacMillan Center for International and Area Studies has launched a Telugu language program, expanding its offerings in South Asian languages and cultures.
Telugu, one of India’s classical languages that is spoken by more than 83 million people worldwide, has shaped South Asian history through centuries of literary, political, and artistic expression. Its rich cultural roots span classical dance forms such as Kuchipudi, the Telugu film industry (commonly known as “Tollywood”), and the melodic traditions of Carnatic music, one of South India’s oldest musical traditions. Studying Telugu offers students a direct connection to one of the oldest and most influential cultural landscapes in South Asia.
“The United States is home to the second-largest population of Telugu speakers globally,” said Professor Rohit De, Chair of SASC. As the number of speakers continues to surge, Professor De added, “We hope learning Telugu will not only open up opportunities in a range of careers connected to this globally significant region but also foster deeper engagement with Asian American communities and South India’s rich literary and musical traditions.”
India’s prominence in fields such as information technology, pharmaceuticals, and textiles makes Telugu an increasingly relevant language for students pursuing careers in global industries. The new program complements SASC’s existing language offerings in Hindi and Sanskrit and responds to growing student interest in South Asian studies.
“We are very fortunate to have Dr. Shiva Sai Ram Urella join us as the Telugu lector,” shared Professor De. “He will also be offering courses on religion, caste and cultures of South India.”
Dr. Urella expressed his enthusiasm for the new program:
“I am excited by the opportunity to teach Telugu courses at Yale and advance conversations on Telugu film, religion, and politics. I want to introduce Yale students to the rich imaginative worlds of Telugu literary culture and also encourage them to explore the contemporary cultural landscapes inhabited by Telugu speakers in South Asia and here in the United States.”
The launch of the program coincides with Telugu Language Day, observed annually on August 29 in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. The day celebrates the richness of Telugu literature and culture, making this an especially meaningful moment to introduce the new course.
SASC plans to continue expanding its South Asian language offerings and aims for Yale to emerge as a national resource for Telugu studies.