A questionnaire-based study of the perception of English and bilingualism among young people of Bangladeshi and Indian descent

The aim of this dissertation is to explore the role of English in Bangladesh and India, focusing on bilingualism and on the ways young people perceive the increasing presence of English in their everyday lives. The theoretical section examines the historical development of English in South Asia and analyses linguistic phenomena such as Banglish and Hinglish, together with the educational and social implications of the growing use of English. Although English functions as a fundamental resource for global opportunities, it also contributes to inequalities in access to education and socioeconomic mobility. The empirical part of the study is based on questionnaire data collected from Bangladeshi and Indian students both in their home countries and in Italy. The survey investigates participants' language practices, attitudes towards English, code-switching, and perceptions of the relationship between language, identity, and social prestige. The findings reveal that English is typically viewed as an essential language for education and professional success, even if concerns remain about its influence on local languages and cultural identity. Overall, the study highlights the complex and contrasting role of English in Bangladesh and India, where it represents both a valuable linguistic resource and a source of social and cultural tension.