Gujarati Dictionary Embraces AI Era with 2,200 New Terms

The Sarth Gujarati Jodni Kosh, a prominent dictionary inspired by the vision of **Mahatma Gandhi**, is set to modernize its vocabulary by including **2,200 new words** related to contemporary technology and culture. This update aims to make the dictionary more relevant in the age of artificial intelligence, introducing terms such as “algorithm,” “internet,” “surfing,” and “upload.” The last significant revision occurred in **2017**, marking a 50-year gap since the fifth edition’s publication in **1967**.

Gujarat Vidyapith, responsible for the dictionary’s updates, has invited Gujarati language speakers to contribute words not currently included. The deadline for submissions is **March 31, 2024**. This initiative reflects a broader effort to engage the community in the evolution of the language, as described by **Dhwanil Parekh**, a professor of Gujarati and convener of the project.

Community Involvement and Language Growth

According to Parekh, the project was initiated a year ago under the leadership of **Dr. Harshad Patel**, the vice-chancellor of Gujarat Vidyapith, following the revival of the kosh karyalaya on campus. The review committee for this ambitious update consists of ten members, including **Dr. Arvind Bhandari**, a linguist and lexicographer who serves as the chief editor.

“So far, we have identified about **2,200 new entries**,” Parekh stated. “We want citizens to be part of the initiative and thus have invited all to submit words.” He highlighted the importance of community contributions, noting that similar participation enriched the **Bhagwat Gomandal Kosh**, a notable Gujarati encyclopaedia.

The inclusion of new words is indicative of a vibrant and evolving language, according to the editors. They also plan to reassess less common and archaic terms from past editions. For example, games like “**Ambli-Pipli**” and “**Adukiyo-Dadukiyo**” will receive expanded definitions, moving beyond the simplified description of “a game.”

Modernization of Language Definitions

Dr. Bhandari emphasized the goal of maintaining clarity in definitions. Lexicographers aim to avoid convoluted translations for English terms that have become commonplace. “We expect good participation that may reflect the diversity of the language and its usage—from fields ranging from commerce to information technology,” he noted.

The initiative not only revitalizes the dictionary but also underscores the significance of language in adapting to modern contexts. By embracing new terminology, the Sarth Gujarati Jodni Kosh aims to remain a relevant resource for speakers and learners of Gujarati, ensuring that the language continues to thrive in an ever-changing world.

This update serves as a reminder that dictionaries are not static; they are living documents that evolve with the culture and technology of their time.