The first language to have been assigned the status of a classical language, in 2004, is

Tamil was the first language granted classical language status, in 2004.

Sanskrit received the status the following year, not first.

Kannada was accorded the status later, in 2008.

Malayalam was recognised as classical only in 2013.

Classical status recognises a long and independent literary tradition.

It brings central support for the study and promotion of the language.