Iranian languages are a branch of the larger Indo-Iranian language family, which is part of the Indo-European languages. They are primarily spoken in Iran, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia. Major languages in this group include Persian, Kurdish, and Pashto, each with its own dialects and variations. These languages have a rich history and have evolved over centuries, influenced by various cultures and languages. The Avestan and Middle Persian forms are significant in understanding the development of modern Iranian languages. Today, they play a crucial role in the cultural identity of the Iranian people and their diaspora.