A couple of words in their original form to ensure their essence is not lost in translation
An interesting compilation of Hindi words that have been accommodated in English without distortion of their original form.
The Eternal Urge ‘Jijivisha’
In Hindi, ‘Jijivisha’ translates to the willingness and desire to live in the most elated sense of being. The word is also applied to someone who has a penchant for drinking life to the lees.
Travellers’ Comfort Cocoon, a Dhaba
The Hindi word ‘Dhaba’ refers to roadside eateries mostly serving local cuisines at affordable prices although the concept of dhabas has been capitalised and themed as a major selling point. The shops are mostly found in the vicinity of petrol stations and highways. Quintessentially, a dhaba should operate 24/7 where you can gorge on comfort foods in a homely ambience without worrying about prices or sophisticated culinary skills.
Religious and Cultural Concept of Jootha
‘Jootha’ is a cultural concept referring to an item that has been inside somebody else’s mouth, and it is considered to be untouchable and unhygienic because it has been already soiled by somebody’s saliva. Once an item is jootha, it is discarded as polluted and impure especially on religious and auspicious occasions.
Moksh, the Penultimate Salvation
The spiritual concept of attaining salvation is common to Jainism, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism, Moksh means redemption from the perilous cycle of death and rebirth propelled by the rules of Karma. In English, it is improbable that one would come across a word that would signify this liberation from the circle of pain and suffering.
Good Ol’ Adda
Adda translates into a den where you gather around for gossips and friendly banters. Friends and acquaintances exchange thoughts, feelings, opinions and even persuasively debate as they gather around. This spot is frequented by friends on a regular or infrequent basis; it evokes familiarity, warmth, assurance and friendliness among companions. The etymology of this ‘nest’ is traced to a ‘perching spot’. Adda is originally a Bengali word and is mostly used among the middle class. The adjective ‘addabaj’ denotes a person who is adept at giving addas.
Jugaad, the Art of Making Do
The concept of ‘Jugaad’ is to manage with the available resources, no matter how limited their availability is, and in the most cost-effective manner. If one has mastered the art of carrying on with jugaad, they have the spirit to live life in a thrifty, prudent and non-conventional way.
