Punjabi University, Patiala launches Punjabi-English Dictionary Android app to mark International Mother Language Day
Babushahi Bureau
Patiala (Punjab), February 21, 2026 — In a significant leap toward the digital advancement of the Punjabi language, Punjabi University, Patiala, officially launched the Punjabi-English Dictionary Android Mobile Application today.
The launch coincided with International Mother Language Day, celebrating the university's commitment to preserving and promoting the mother tongue through modern technology.
The application has been developed by the university’s Research Centre for Technical Development of Punjabi Language, Literature, and Culture (RCTDPL).
A Milestone in Digital Punjabi
Inaugurating the app, the Honorable Vice Chancellor, Dr. Jagdeep Singh, emphasized that integrating the Punjabi language with contemporary technology is the "need of the hour." He stated:
"This app is a vital step in our mission to make Punjabi accessible globally. It will prove to be an invaluable resource for students, teachers, researchers, writers, and the Punjabi diaspora living across the world."
Key Features of the App
The digital dictionary is based on the 2002 edition of the Punjabi-English Dictionary published by the Department of Lexicography, Punjabi University. Its features include:
- Extensive Database: Contains 35,679 root words and 129,834 word forms.
- Dual-Script Support: This first-of-its-kind app allows users to search for words in both Gurmukhi and Shahmukhi scripts.
- Audio Pronunciation: Provides accurate audio pronunciations for each entry.
- Flexible Search: Features a consonant-based search (fuzzy search), enabling users to find words even if they do not enter specific vowel markers.
- Reverse Lookup: Allows users to search for Punjabi words by entering their English meanings.
Leadership and Development
The project was conceptualized by Dr. Gurpreet Singh Lehal, Founder Director of the RCTDPL, who originally digitized the university's dictionary. The app was brought to fruition under the leadership of the current Director, Dr. Dharamveer Sharma.
The development team included significant contributions from:
- Dr. Harvinder Pal Kaur (Head, Department of Linguistics and Punjabi Lexicography)
- Dr. Tejinder Singh Saini
- Dr. Ankur Rana
- Ms. Ramandeep Kaur Chahal
- Mr. Rakesh Davara
- Dr. Jaspal Singh
- Mr. Tanveer Akhtar
The launch of this app marks a new milestone in the technical evolution of the Punjabi language, ensuring its relevance and accessibility in the digital age.