* India: It's one of the official languages of India, alongside Hindi and English. It's spoken by a large population, especially in the north and central regions.
* Pakistan: In Pakistan, Hindustani is known as Urdu, which is considered their national language. It is widely spoken throughout the country.
Beyond these two countries, Hindustani is also spoken by significant communities in:
* Bangladesh: Hindustani has a presence in Bangladesh, particularly among certain ethnic groups.
* Nepal: Hindustani is spoken by a smaller but notable population in Nepal, particularly in areas bordering India.
* Other South Asian countries: Hindustani speakers can also be found in smaller numbers in other South Asian nations like Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives.
* Diaspora communities: Hindustani is also spoken by diaspora communities around the world, including in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and the Middle East.
It's important to note that:
* Hindi and Urdu are very similar: They are considered two different "registers" of the same language, with minor differences in vocabulary and script.
* "Hindustani" is a broader term: It encompasses both Hindi and Urdu, emphasizing their shared origins and similarities.
Therefore, Hindustani's reach is vast and extends beyond specific national boundaries. Its influence is deeply rooted in the cultural and linguistic landscape of South Asia.