The Santali language is a member of the Austroasiatic language family, primarily spoken by the Santal people in India, Bangladesh, and Nepal. It is one of the official languages of the Indian state of Jharkhand and is recognized in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. Santali has its own script called Ol Chiki, developed in the 1920s by Pandit Raghunath Murmu.
The Santali community has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and festivals. Their folklore and oral traditions play a significant role in preserving their history and identity. The Santal people are known for their vibrant festivals, such as Baha and Sohrai, which celebrate nature and agricultural cycles.