In India, classical languages are those that have a rich heritage, ancient roots, and a vast body of literature. These languages are recognized by the Indian government for their historical and cultural significance. As of now, six languages are officially designated as classical languages in India:

1. Sanskrit: One of the oldest languages in the world, Sanskrit is the language of many of India’s ancient scriptures, including the Vedas, Upanishads, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. It is the foundation of many modern Indian languages.

2. Tamil: An ancient Dravidian language with over 2,000 years of documented history, Tamil has a rich tradition of literature, philosophy, and poetry, including works like the Sangam literature and the Tirukkural.

3. Telugu: Another Dravidian language, Telugu has a long literary tradition, dating back to the 6th century. It is known for its classical poetry and drama, such as works by the poet Nannaya.

4. Kannada: Kannada, also a Dravidian language, has an extensive literature dating back to the 9th century. It is known for works like Kavirajamarga and Pampa’s Vikramarjuna Vijaya.

5. Sanskrit: The most ancient of the classical languages in India, Sanskrit is a highly structured language and the foundation of much Indian religious, philosophical, and scientific texts.

6. Odia: The classical status of Odia recognizes its antiquity, with a literary history that spans over.