The Karelian language is a Finno-Ugric language spoken primarily in the Republic of Karelia in Russia and parts of Finland. It is closely related to Finnish and Estonian, sharing many linguistic features. Karelian has several dialects, including Olonets, Ladoga, and North Karelian, which can vary significantly in pronunciation and vocabulary. Karelian is recognized as a minority language in Russia and has seen efforts for revitalization and preservation. The language has a rich oral tradition and is used in various cultural expressions, including music and literature, reflecting the heritage of the Karelian people.