What country speaks Punjabi language?

As an expert in linguistics and cultural studies, I have a deep understanding of the global distribution of languages and their significance in various societies. Punjabi is a language with a rich history and cultural heritage, and it is spoken by a significant number of people across several countries. Let's delve into the details of where Punjabi is spoken and its importance in each region. Punjab, India: Punjabi is the official language of the Indian state of Punjab. This state is located in the northern part of India and is known for its fertile land, which is why it's often referred to as the "breadbasket of India." The language is spoken by the majority of the population in this region and is deeply intertwined with the cultural identity of the people. The Punjabi language in India is written in the Gurmukhi script, which was developed during the medieval period and is an essential part of the Sikh religious tradition. Punjab, Pakistan: Across the border in Pakistan, Punjabi is also widely spoken, particularly in the province of Punjab. It is the most widely spoken language in Pakistan and is an integral part of the cultural fabric of the region. The Punjabi spoken in Pakistan is written in the Shahmukhi script, which is distinct from the Gurmukhi script used in India. The language is a symbol of the shared heritage and cultural ties between the two Punjab regions despite the political boundaries that separate them. Indian Subcontinent: When considering the Indian Subcontinent as a whole, Punjabi stands out as the third-most spoken native language. This is a testament to the large population of Punjabi speakers and the widespread influence of Punjabi culture across the region. Punjabi music, cinema, and literature have a significant presence and are enjoyed by audiences beyond the Punjabi-speaking community. United Kingdom: The Punjabi diaspora has led to the establishment of vibrant Punjabi-speaking communities in the United Kingdom. With a significant number of Punjabi immigrants, particularly from the Indian state of Punjab, the language has gained prominence in the UK. It is the fourth-most spoken language in the country, reflecting the substantial contribution of the Punjabi community to British society and culture. Canada: Similarly, in Canada, Punjabi is the third-most spoken native language after English and French. The Canadian Punjabi community is a testament to the global reach of Punjabi culture and the significant role that Punjabi immigrants play in the Canadian social fabric. The language's presence in Canada is a result of immigration patterns and the active efforts of the Punjabi community to preserve and promote their linguistic and cultural heritage. Diaspora Communities: Beyond these primary regions, there are also sizable Punjabi-speaking communities in other countries, including the United States, Australia, and various countries in the Middle East and Africa. These communities often maintain strong ties to their cultural roots and contribute to the global diversity of languages and cultures. In conclusion, the Punjabi language is a vibrant and influential language spoken across several countries, primarily in the Punjab regions of India and Pakistan, but also in significant diaspora communities in the United Kingdom, Canada, and beyond. The language serves as a bridge between different cultures and plays a crucial role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Punjabi people.

Punjabi is the most widely spoken language in Pakistan, the 11th most widely spoken in India and the third-most spoken native language in the Indian Subcontinent. Punjabi is the fourth-most spoken language in the United Kingdom and third-most spoken native language (after English and French) in Canada.