Correct option is A
Explanation:
Probal Dasgupta is the author of The Otherness of English: India’s Aunty Tongue Syndrome, which explores the role of English in India. The book critically examines how English has been adapted, localized, and sometimes resisted in the Indian socio-cultural context. Dasgupta delves into the linguistic politics surrounding English, highlighting its dual status as a symbol of modernity and an alien cultural imposition.
Information Booster:
Probal Dasgupta’s Contributions:
A linguist and scholar, Dasgupta has written extensively on sociolinguistics and the Indian multilingual scenario.
His work bridges linguistic theory and cultural studies, focusing on how English operates as a "second language" in postcolonial India.
Themes in the Book:
English as a postcolonial language in India.
The socio-political implications of adopting English in education, governance, and everyday communication.
The humorous term “Aunty Tongue Syndrome” reflects the mix of familiarity and alienation Indians feel toward English.
Sociolinguistics, with a focus on postcolonial language studies.
Additional Knowledge:
Yamuna Kachru: A linguist specializing in World Englishes and South Asian linguistics. Her work does not focus specifically on this book but contributes to the study of English in India.
Binoo K. John: Known for works on the quirks of Indian English, such as Entry from Backside Only, which humorously examines Indian English expressions.
S. K. Verma: A linguist with works on the structural and functional aspects of Indian English but not the author of this book.
English serves as a link language but also creates socio-economic divides.
The hybridization of English with local languages has resulted in unique varieties like “Hinglish.”
The book humorously critiques Indians' love-hate relationship with English.