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Learn Kannadafor real life

ಕನ್ನಡ

Learn Kannada through a language you already know. Build useful vocabulary, follow personalized lessons, and practise everyday conversations with your AI tutor.

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Illustration for learning Kannada
A new language. More people, places and stories to connect with.
Speakers
45+ Million
Speaking regions
Karnataka, India
Writing system
Kannada

People, places & possibilities

Why learn Kannada?

Kannada is one of the oldest Dravidian languages with a rich literary tradition spanning over 2,000 years. It's the official language of Karnataka and has produced some of India's finest literature, music, and cinema.

  • Connect with 45+ million native speakers
  • Explore Karnataka's rich cultural heritage
  • Access classical literature and modern Kannada cinema
  • Enhance career opportunities in Bangalore's tech hub
  • Understand ancient inscriptions and historical texts

Your first steps

How to start learning Kannada

Start where you are. Connect each new word to something you want to say.

  1. Get to know the writing and sounds

    Explore Kannada writing and how Kannada sounds. Take time with unfamiliar characters and pronunciation.

  2. Start with words you will use

    Learn useful Kannada greetings and everyday vocabulary, with explanations in the language you choose.

  3. Turn words into a conversation

    Practise speaking Kannada with your AI tutor. Ask a question, explain an idea, or talk about something you enjoy.

  4. Make a little time for practice

    Return to your lessons and try your new Kannada words in different situations. Build towards fluent speaking at your own pace.

Explore Kannada writing with audio

From knowing to speaking

Make Kannada part of your day

Work towards more fluent conversations by putting your words into practice, not just memorising them.

  • Practise both sides of a conversation

    Speak Kannada with an AI tutor that responds. Try everyday situations or talk about your interests.

  • Understand it in your own language

    Ask your AI tutor to explain a word or idea in a language you already know, then try using it yourself.

  • Follow a plan that starts with you

    Your goals, interests and level help shape your next lesson. Keep building on what you have already learned.

An Indilingo AI speaking call, showing the tutor speaking and the End Call control

Speaking practice in the Indilingo app.

Before you begin

Learning Kannada: your questions

More about Indilingo
What language is spoken in Karnataka?

Kannada is the official language of Karnataka, including Bengaluru. It is also spoken in parts of neighbouring states and by Kannada communities abroad.

Is Kannada a classical language?

Yes. The Government of India declared Kannada a classical language in 2008.

What script is Kannada written in?

Kannada has its own rounded script, written from left to right. It is closely related to the Telugu script, and the two looked almost the same until around the 13th and 14th centuries.

Can I start learning Kannada for free?

Yes. You can start with the core learning experience for free. AI chat and speaking have free-use limits, and Indilingo Pro gives you more. Check the app for your current plan's features and limits.

Can I learn Kannada from a language I already speak?

Yes. Choose Kannada as the language you want to learn and a supported language for your explanations. Your starting language can help you understand new words and ideas.

How can I practise speaking Kannada?

Open the Speak tab in the app and choose an everyday situation or General Practice. Talk with your AI tutor, ask questions, and try using the Kannada words you have learned.

Is Kannada difficult to learn?

That depends on the languages you already know and what you want to do with Kannada. Get familiar with its Kannada writing system, start with useful words, and give yourself time to practise.

How long does it take to become fluent in Kannada?

There is no single timeline. Your starting point, goals, regular practice and opportunities to use Kannada all matter. Set a practical goal, such as introducing yourself or making plans, and build from there.

How many people speak Kannada?

Our language guide lists 45+ Million speakers, with speaking communities across Karnataka, India. Speaker estimates vary by source and by whether they include second-language speakers.

Where can I learn Kannada with Indilingo?

Download Indilingo on Android from Google Play or on iPhone from the App Store. Personalized lessons, AI chat and speaking practice are available in the mobile app.

Your next conversation could be in Kannada

Take the next step towards fluent speaking. Start with a language you know and build from there.

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