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.
Fun Conversational Hindi Classes for Kids and Adults Outside India
Have you ever watched a Bollywood movie and everyone else was laughing and…you didn’t understand the joke? Or maybe your grandparents speak to you in Hindi…and your response is a sweet smile and “theek hain” to everything?
That was me too.
Growing up in Orange County, California, I understood Hindi long before I confidently spoke it. But over time, I became curious. Friday nights became “Hindi movie nights” with my mom — parathas, Bollywood movies, and LOTS of questions.
Eventually, I started speaking more Hindi at home.
One of my favorite memories was visiting family in Delhi when my Chachi said: Tumhari Hindi bahut achi hai.
That was a moment for me.
I started Virtual PreSkool to make learning Hindi accessible to children and adults residing outside India. To build confidence speaking Hindi and feel more connected to their family, culture, and heritage.
One of the best parts of teaching is hearing students excitedly share:
- “My Nani cried when I said “pranam”!
- “When we were in India my dad didn’t know how to ask for directions, but I did!”
After graduating from UC Irvine and earning my MBA from USC Marshall, I spent years as an entrepreneur before creating Virtual PreSkool.
When I’m not teaching Hindi, I’m usually exercising, cooking vegan meals, or planning my next trip. I look forward to seeing you in class!
