You know you’re a Hindi teacher when you are typing and pathala autocorrects to Patiala. That happened to me this week as I made a lesson about adjectives to teach to my more advanced students.
I was creating a lesson to teach 3 adjectives:
- pathala (skinny/thin)
- gol matol (chubby)
- mota (click)
I typed pathala as you see it here and my computer autocorrected it to patiala! Patiala has two meanings. It is a city in Punjab and it’s also a style of salwar kameez worn very commonly amongst Punjabi women.
A Patiala suit is marked by looks balloon pants (salwar) that are tapered at the ankle. The top – the kameez – is fitted, 3/4 sleeves. The length hits at the upper thighs. The scarf is called a chunni. It’s a light, flowy material that matches the salwar and kameez.
In her hair, she’s wearing a parandi. This is a hair extension with an ornament.
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About Samta Aunty
Growing up in Orange County, California, I learned Hindi and Indian culture from my parents and the community. At one point, in addition to understanding Hindi, I developed an interest in speaking, and my parents encouraged me.
Friday night was date-night with my mom. We would eat parathas and watch Hindi movies together. I asked lots of questions and switched to speaking in Hindi at home.
That day, in high school, when my Chachi in Delhi said, “Tumhari Hindi bahut achi hain” is one of my favorite memories.
I started Virtual PreSkool to pay it forward. It’s fulfilling when a student comes to class and excitedly shares that they successfully connected with grandparents/relatives or when they were in India and knew how to ask for directions.
After completing undergrad at UC Irvine, I did my MBA at the USC Marshall School of Business. I’ve been an entrepreneur my entire career.
When I’m not teaching and creating lessons, I’m usually exercising, cooking vegan meals, or traveling. I love writing about travel on my blog PassportPages.
Dhanyavaad!
