**Abstract:**
Tanilipi, introduced by Dr. Tony Koyu in 2000, emerges as a pivotal solution in safeguarding the Tani language from the brink of extinction. This paper delves into the nuanced historical background, cultural significance, and multifaceted implications of Tanilipi in revitalizing endangered languages and fostering social cohesion among Tani-speaking communities. Through an exhaustive analysis of Dr. Tony Koyu’s visionary endeavors, the societal impact of Tanilipi, and the mission of Tanilipi advocates, this study elucidates the transformative potential of indigenous scripts in bridging traditions and modern technology for language preservation and cultural revitalization.
**Introduction:**
The Tani language, a member of the Tibeto-Burman language group, faces existential threats owing to the decline in its usage and the lack of a standardized writing system. However, the advent of Tanilipi signifies a watershed moment in the efforts to revive and preserve this endangered language. Developed by Dr. Tony Koyu, Tanilipi serves as a potent tool for uniting Tani-speaking tribes and reclaiming their linguistic heritage. This paper explores the origins of Tanilipi, its cultural significance, and its role in fostering a sense of pride and identity among Tani descendants.
**Historical Context and Development of Tanilipi:**
The genesis of Tanilipi in 2000 marked a seminal juncture in the history of Tani language and culture. Dr. Tony Koyu, a visionary indigenous leader, discerned the urgent imperative to preserve and promote the Tani language before it succumbed to oblivion. Drawing inspiration from the rich linguistic tapestry of the Tani-speaking tribes, Dr. Koyu meticulously crafted Tanilipi to encapsulate the phonetic intricacies of the language while integrating elements of contemporary typographic systems. Through his pioneering initiatives, Tanilipi emerged as a symbol of indigenous resilience and cultural renaissance.
**Cultural Significance of Tanilipi:**
Tanilipi transcends its functional role as a writing system; it embodies the collective ethos and heritage of Tani-speaking communities. By furnishing a standardized medium of communication, Tanilipi engenders social cohesion and solidarity among diverse tribes such as Adi, Nyishi, Galo, Tagin, Apatani, and Mishing. Furthermore, Tanilipi serves as a catalyst for cultural reinvigoration, facilitating the transmission of oral traditions, folklore, and literature across generations. Its adoption has engendered a renewed fervor for Tani language and literature, propelling the revitalization of indigenous culture.
**Practical Implications and Future Prospects:**
The widespread embrace of Tanilipi carries profound implications for educational, economic, and social advancement within Tani-speaking enclaves. With the establishment of Tani Language departments and educational institutions dedicated to Tanilipi instruction, avenues for academic and professional enrichment are poised to proliferate. Moreover, Tanilipi augurs well for indigenous authors, poets, and scholars, affording them a platform to showcase their talents on a national and global scale. As Tanilipi garners increasing recognition and support, it emerges as a beacon of hope for indigenous language revitalization initiatives worldwide.
**Conclusion:**
In summation, Tanilipi epitomizes the resilience and ingenuity of indigenous communities in confronting linguistic and cultural marginalization. Dr. Tony Koyu’s visionary stewardship and unwavering dedication have paved the path for the renaissance of the Tani language and the empowerment of Tani-speaking tribes. As Tanilipi evolves and flourishes, it embodies the enduring spirit of cultural preservation and linguistic diversity. Through concerted collaboration and steadfast commitment, Tanilipi heralds a new epoch in the annals of indigenous language revitalization, characterized by pride, unity, and cultural resurgence.
**Digitization**
We have also submitted Tanilipi font files to unicode society and to Google font files. It is in the final stage of approval.
Meanwhile we have uploaded the font files as an application on Google Play Sote for the shake of its widespread usage on computers.
A humne request
The 13 lakh plus Tani speaking people of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam consider Tani Script as a tool to preserve their mother tongue viz:- “Tani Language” which is on the verge of extinction. And the humble efforts initiated by Dr. Koyu’s is a significant step towards the preservation of Indigenous culture and faith as well as an eye opener indeed.
The people of Arunachal Pradesh has a long standing demand to include this Script with Tani Language in the 8th schedule of the Constitution of India and to make it as the official state language of Tani people of Arunachal Pradesh.
FOR MORE INFORMATION THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE www.tanilipi.in CAN BE VISITED. TANI LITERATURE BY DR. KOYU IS WELL PUBLISHED THERE. ONE CAN VISIT AND READ AlL NOVELS CIMPOSED BY THE INVENTOR OF TANILIPI.
