India, Feb. 21 -- Poet, singer and author Minu Bakshi has long balanced creativity across mediums, from music and poetry to translation and teaching. As the world observes International Mother Language Day, Bakshi reflects on the importance of preserving the languages that shape identity and memory. For her, this connection is deeply personal; as a Punjabi Sikh, she has spent years using her art to celebrate and safeguard Punjabi heritage.

"Being a Punjabi Sikh, I have always felt a deep responsibility towards preserving Punjabi folk traditions, especially wedding and ceremonial songs," she says. "These songs were once an integral part of family and community life that were once sung in courtyards and homes but were gradually disappearin...