Maharashtri is an ancient language, which was spoken in
Maharashtra in the olden days. In fact the name of this region is said to have been derived from the language. Historical evidence points out that this language evolved during the 3rd century BC, under the rule of the Rashtrakutas, a dynasty tracing its lineage to the Aryans. The modern
Marathi language is believed to have been derived from it at around 10th century.
Maharashtri falls under the category of Prakrit, a group of languages spoken in ancient times. Many Jain epics and songs have been composed in this language.
