Background of the study
Traditional festivals are vital conduits for cultural expression and the preservation of indigenous languages. The Osun-Osogbo Festival, an annual event celebrated by the Yoruba people, exemplifies how language reinforces communal identity and cultural heritage. During the festival, indigenous Yoruba language is prominently featured in rituals, songs, and public discourse, serving to transmit historical knowledge, moral values, and traditional customs (Oluwaseun, 2023). The festival’s linguistic practices not only foster a sense of community but also act as a repository of cultural memory that is passed down through generations. As modern influences permeate traditional settings, there is growing concern that these indigenous language practices may be diluted or lost. Nonetheless, the festival also offers an opportunity to revitalize language use by engaging younger audiences and integrating contemporary expressions with traditional forms (Ibrahim, 2024). This study investigates the impact of language use during the Osun-Osogbo Festival, examining how indigenous expressions contribute to cultural preservation and identity formation in a rapidly modernizing society (Akinola, 2023).
Statement of the problem
Despite the recognized importance of indigenous language in traditional festivals, limited research has been conducted on its specific role in the Osun-Osogbo Festival. The increasing influence of modernity and global languages poses a threat to the continuity of traditional language practices, potentially undermining cultural identity (Adesanya, 2024). As the festival evolves to incorporate contemporary elements, there is a risk that traditional linguistic expressions may become diluted, affecting the transmission of cultural heritage. This study seeks to address this gap by examining how language use during the festival contributes to identity formation and cultural preservation, and by identifying challenges and opportunities for maintaining indigenous language practices.
Objectives of the study:
Research questions:
Research hypotheses:
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it highlights the critical role of indigenous language in traditional festivals, using the Osun-Osogbo Festival as a case study. The findings will provide valuable insights for cultural custodians and policymakers on preserving linguistic heritage while embracing modern influences. Emphasizing language’s role in identity formation, the research supports strategies to maintain the authenticity of traditional festivals (Balogun, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to examining language use within the context of the Osun-Osogbo Festival, focusing exclusively on cultural and linguistic aspects.
Definitions of terms:
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Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
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