By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
Did you ever wonder:
What is Indian culture like? Learn more!
Interesting facts about India you didn’t know about!
Explore Indian customs.
Traveling to India? You are in for a treat – Explore here!
Here are a few articles from this site – use the menu at the very top of this page to discover many more…
Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
The Indian cultural secret to Great Customer Service
Customer service, and how learning about Indian culture can make it the best ever!
First let us look at customer service:
What is customer service?
Customer service refers to the support and assistance provided by a business or organization to its customers before, during, and after a purchase. It involves ensuring that customers are satisfied with their experience and helping them resolve any issues or concerns they may have.
In general, good customer service involves being responsive, helpful, and empathetic towards customers, understanding their needs and concerns, and providing effective solutions to any issues that may arise.
How does customer service look like?
Customer service can look different in various scenarios and contexts, as it depends on the type of business or organization, the industry, and the customer base.
For instance, customer service in a retail store may involve greeting customers, providing product recommendations, processing transactions, and addressing any complaints or returns.
On the other hand, customer service in a call center may involve answering questions, resolving technical issues, and providing information about products or services.
What are some examples of it, in action?
Examples of customer service include:
A customer calling a company’s customer service hotline to report a problem with their product. The representative listens to the customer’s complaint, offers a solution, and follows up with the customer to ensure their issue has been resolved.
A customer visiting a restaurant and being greeted by a friendly and attentive server who takes their order, checks on their satisfaction during the meal, and offers dessert or additional beverages.
A customer shopping online and encountering an issue with their order. They reach out to the company’s customer service via email or chat, and the representative responds promptly, offering a solution and ensuring the customer receives their order as soon as possible.
What does Indian culture have anything to do with customer service?
Technically, it does not. But functionally it has everything to do with it.
We saw how it looks like in the examples and by a definition mentioned above.
Let us forget those for a minute and let us take a look at some aspects of a custom from the Indian culture.
It is quite important to understand the context of what we are referring to later on.
There are a lot of customs and traditions in a culture.
Particularly, over time some traditional protocols are established and you can see this when you interact with people from diverse cultures.
How people greet each other and their interactions in various contexts show the unique nature of that region’s cultural traditions.
How do Indians greet someone?
When most Indians meet someone – the traditional way is to bring both palms together at chest height, a slight bow of the head towards the person/s being greeted and saying Namaste or Namaskar.
Learn more about greeting someone in India
Showing respect to everyone is paramount in everyday interactions, especially to people who may be or perceived to be older than oneself.
Even while referring to someone a respectful word is attached to the persons name indicating respect. It’s quite common for younger folks referring to someone older as Uncle and Aunty (in the regional language – do note there are many ways for these two relationships) instead of using their given names even if they are not related to them – as a sign of respect.
When someone is seen as closer to their age – they call them the word for Brother or Older brother or sister as the case maybe.
Why do most Indians refer to elders as Uncle or Aunty even if they are not related?
In India and in the surrounding region, there are specific words for relationships. To put it in context in a western or English words used – let us look at what we call siblings, then cousins and older relatives.
The words for brothers, sisters, uncles, and aunts vary across different languages in India. In the modern day, Uncle and Aunty are commonly used in place of these below.
Here are some examples:
Hindi:
- Brother: Bhai (भाई)
- Sister: Behan (बहन)
- Uncle (paternal): Chacha (चाचा)
- Uncle (maternal): Mama (मामा)
- Aunt (paternal): Chachi (चाची)
- Aunt (maternal): Mami (मामी)
Bengali:
- Brother: Bhai (ভাই)
- Sister: Bon (বোন)
- Uncle (paternal): Kak (কাক)
- Uncle (maternal): Jethu (জেঠু)
- Aunt (paternal): Pishi (পিসি)
- Aunt (maternal): Mashi (মাসি)
Telugu:
- Brother: Anna (అన్న)
- Sister: Akka (అక్క)
- Uncle (paternal): Pedananna (పెదనన్న)
- Uncle (maternal): Mamayya (మామయ్య)
- Aunt (paternal): Peddamma (పెద్దమ్మ)
- Aunt (maternal): Pinni
Marathi:
- Brother: Bhau (भाऊ)
- Sister: Bahin (बहिण)
- Uncle (paternal): Kaka (काका)
- Uncle (maternal): Mama (मामा)
- Aunt (paternal): Aai (आई)
- Aunt (maternal): Maushi (माऊशी)
In many Indian languages, the words for relatives are specific to the gender and age of the person being referred to, as well as their relationship to the speaker. The use of these specific terms shows respect and acknowledges the complexity of relationships. Each term carries its own nuance, conveying not just who they are, but how you relate to them in the family context.
But here’s the twist: this rich vocabulary often spills over to refer to anyone older than you, even outside your circle of blood relatives. The familiar “Uncle” and “Aunty” become respectful way of addressing strangers too, acknowledging their seniority and experience. So, the shopkeeper down the street, the friendly neighbor, or even the taxi driver – they might all be called “Uncle” or “Aunty” or “Bhai” (brother) or “Behan” (sister).
These words for specific relations are sometimes used to refer to total strangers as a sign of respect.
Additionally it’s very common to add “ji” to the end of a name or a relational term, like “Uncleji” or “Behanji” (‘Behan’ meaning sister), as a way of showing respect. It’s a courteous suffix used in both formal and informal settings.
While addressing actual relatives or strangers, this addition elevates the level of politeness in the conversation. Similar practices exist in other languages and cultures, where specific words or suffixes are attached to names to indicate respect, especially when addressing elders or strangers. This cultural practice underscores the value placed on respect and formality in interpersonal interactions.
How are guests treated in an Indian home?
Guests are treated with a great deal of respect and hospitality in Indian homes.
Here are some cultural and traditional customs associated with how guests are treated in Indian homes:
- Welcoming the Guest: As soon as the guest arrives, they are welcomed with a warm greeting, often with a garland of flowers or a tilak (a mark made with vermilion powder on the forehead) and offered a seat. The host or hostess may also offer the guest a glass of water or a hot beverage like tea or coffee.
- Serving Food: In Indian culture, offering food to the guest is considered a way of showing respect and hospitality. Guests are often served a variety of dishes, including snacks, main course, and desserts. It is also common to serve the guest the best food the family has to offer.
- Accommodation: If the guest is staying overnight, the host provides them with comfortable accommodation. They may be given a private room or a bed in a common area.
- Departure: When it is time for the guest to leave, the host or hostess may offer them a parting gift as a token of appreciation for their visit. They may also accompany the guest to the door or the gate and say goodbye.
Almost anywhere in India – regardless of whether the host is well off or not, it’s common for travelers and visitors to be offered a place to clean up or to bathe, clean clothes, a hot meal at a minimum, and a place to rest. The host family will offer the best of everything they have.
These customs are deeply ingrained in Indian culture and are seen as a way of showing respect, love, and hospitality to guests.
Athidi Devo Bhava – The guest is God!
Indian cultural traditions
It is believed that when a guest comes to one’s home, they are a representative of God and should be treated as such.
What does ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ mean?
“Athithi Devo Bhava” is a Sanskrit phrase that means “Guest is equivalent to God.”
This phrase is often quoted in Indian culture to emphasize the importance of treating guests with the utmost respect and hospitality.
It is believed that when a guest comes to one’s home, they are a representative of God and should be treated as such. This concept is deeply ingrained in Indian culture.
And that folks is what Indian culture can help us learn about Customer service. Treating our customers like a guest in an Indian home or rather using that concept:
It is OUR privilege to SERVE our customers with respect, affection & anticipate and fulfill their needs before they have to ask – just as we would if they are our guest in OUR home.
Key principles in action
- Respect, Respect, Respect
- Understand the needs
- Anticipate the next need/s
- Serve with humility and affection
- Offer the BEST of what we have
- Invite back
This will definitely lead to higher customer satisfaction and retention.
Let us know what you think, and if you have tried this how it has worked for you.
Try it out today on your friends and family to test this concept out – Treat them like your top customers!
Are there different customs in different regions of India?
India is a diverse country with many different regions, each with their own unique customs and traditions when it comes to hospitality and treating guests. Here are some examples of how guests are treated in different regions of India:
- North India: In North India, guests are often welcomed with aarti, a ritual in which a lamp is waved in front of the guest as a sign of welcome. They may also be offered paan, a preparation made with betel leaves, nuts, and spices. It is common to serve guests rich and spicy food, and to make sure they are well-fed and comfortable.
- South India: In South India, guests are often welcomed with a garland of flowers and a traditional sweet called Mysore pak. They are also served a variety of vegetarian dishes, including rice, lentils, and vegetables. In some parts of South India, guests are also offered a banana leaf as a plate to eat their food from.
- East India: In East India, guests are often welcomed with a gamosa, a traditional cloth towel. They may also be served a refreshing drink made with mangoes, or a sweet made with jaggery and coconut called rasgulla. In some parts of East India, it is also customary to offer guests a traditional paan made with mustard oil and betel leaves.
- West India: In West India, guests are often welcomed with a tikka, a mark made with vermilion powder on the forehead. They may also be served a refreshing drink made with kokum or a sweet made with milk and sugar called peda. In some parts of West India, guests are also offered a traditional snack called farsan, which is made with gram flour.
- Northeast India: In Northeast India, guests are often welcomed with a traditional shawl or scarf called a phanek. They may also be offered a refreshing drink made with fermented rice called chang or a sweet made with black sesame called til pitha. In some parts of Northeast India, guests are also offered a traditional rice beer called apong.
What about in other countries in the region?
Hospitality and treating guests with respect and honor is an important cultural value in many countries and cultures around the world, including those neighboring India. Here are a few examples:
- Nepal: Similar to India, Nepalese culture places a great deal of importance on hospitality and treating guests with respect. Guests are often welcomed with a garland of flowers or a khada, a traditional silk scarf. They are also offered food and beverages, and it is customary to serve the guest the best food the family has to offer.
- Bhutan: In Bhutanese culture, guests are welcomed with a cup of suja, a salty butter tea, and a plate of traditional snacks. It is customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and to engage in conversation with them.
- Iran: In Iranian culture, hospitality is known as “Mehman Nawazi.” Guests are often welcomed with tea or coffee, sweets, and a range of snacks. It is also customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and engage in conversation.
- Turkey: In Turkish culture, hospitality is known as “Misafirperverlik.” Guests are welcomed with tea, coffee, or sherbet, and are often offered a range of snacks and sweets. It is also common to offer guests a place to rest or to stay overnight.
- Japan: In Japanese culture, hospitality is known as “Omotenashi.” Guests are often welcomed with a bow and a warm greeting. It is customary to offer guests a comfortable place to sit and to provide them with food and beverages.
Important Disclaimer: Just because your Indian origin/desi friends do not treat you exactly as described above does not mean disrespect! Traditions have changed over time, but the principles do remain in action. (But if you think it will help, feel free to forward them this link 😉
Diwali or Deepavali: India’s Festival of Lights
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most significant festivals in India. Celebrated by millions of people across the world, it marks the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. For the Indian diaspora, Diwali is a connection to their cultural roots, while for many non-Indians, it’s a time to appreciate the joy, community, and beauty of the festival.
The Five Days of Diwali: A Celebration Across India
Each day of Diwali is filled with unique traditions, rituals, and cultural practices. While the five days (celebrated during the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika (between mid-October and mid-November)) are celebrated across India, the customs can vary greatly from region to region.
The main day of the festival of Diwali (the day of Lakshmi puja) is an official holiday in Fiji, Guyana, India, Malaysia (except Sarawak), Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
Diwali/Deepavali 2024 Fri, Nov 1, 2024 – 9 countries – Thu, Oct 31, 2024 – 5 countries
Click to find the date for the current year (if you are from the future)
What does Diwali or Deepavali mean?
The word Diwali comes from the Sanskrit word Deepavali, meaning “rows of lighted lamps”. (Deepa – Light/lamp Avali – row)
(Featured image at the top of the post – Photo by Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash)
Day 1: Dhanteras – Welcoming Wealth and Prosperity
Dhanteras marks the official start of Diwali. This day is dedicated to the worship of Dhanvantari, the physician of the gods, and Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth.
- Story: The churning of the ocean, or Samudra Manthan, led to the emergence of both Lakshmi and Dhanvantari holding the pot of nectar (Amrit). Lord Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is said to have brought Ayurveda and Amrit, the nectar of immortality to mankind on this day and he is traditionally also worshipped in some parts of the country. There are a number of temples in Kerala and Tamil Nadu dedicated to Dhanvantari and Ayurveda.
Sagara Manthana (Sanskrit for the Churning of the Ocean) is important in the Hindu stories of origin and are widely depicted in temples in India and Asia. The largest bas relief in the world about this story can be found in Angkor Wat in Cambodia – the largest known Hindu temple (this one is dedicated to Lord Vishnu) in the world.
- Traditions: People buy precious metals like gold, silver, and new utensils, believing it brings good fortune. Homes are cleaned and illuminated with oil lamps to invite Lakshmi’s blessings.
- Regional Variations: In North India, Dhanteras is celebrated with house cleaning and shopping, while in South India, families prepare for the next day’s Naraka Chaturdashi.
Day 2: Naraka Chaturdashi (Chhoti Diwali) – Victory of Light over Evil
Known as Chhoti Diwali in the north and Naraka Chaturdashi in the south, this day symbolizes the victory of good over evil.
- Story: In South India, it celebrates Lord Krishna’s victory over the demon Narakasura, who had imprisoned thousands of women. Krishna’s triumph is seen as the victory of righteousness.
- Traditions: The day starts with an early morning oil bath, lighting of diyas, and bursting of firecrackers to symbolize the triumph of light over darkness.
- Regional Variations: In North India, people light diyas in preparation for the main day of Diwali. In Maharashtra, families celebrate by taking ritual baths before sunrise, followed by offering food to deities.
Day 3: Lakshmi Puja (Main Diwali Day) – The Festival of Wealth and Prosperity
The third day is the most important and widely celebrated day of Diwali. Lakshmi Puja is performed to honor Goddess Lakshmi, invoking her blessings for wealth and prosperity.
- Story: This day is linked to Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile and victory over Ravana. His homecoming was celebrated by lighting oil lamps across the city.
Carvings showing Lord Rama’s is victorious in battles with Ravana and returns to Ayodhya after his 14-year exile. Learn more about the Ellora temple and it’s carvings here.
- Traditions: Homes and businesses are illuminated with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangolis. Lakshmi is worshipped in the evening, and families exchange gifts and sweets.
- Regional Variations: In West Bengal, this day is dedicated to Kali Puja, honoring Goddess Kali with elaborate pandals and rituals. In Gujarat, it marks the new financial year, with businessmen offering prayers for prosperity.
Day 4: Govardhan Puja (Annakut) – Celebrating Lord Krishna’s Protection
Govardhan Puja, also known as Annakut, celebrates the legend of Lord Krishna lifting Govardhan Hill to protect the villagers from torrential rains.
- Story: When Indra, the King of Gods and the god of rain and thunder, shows his anger on the villagers for not worshipping him, Krishna lifted the hill to shelter them. This act is seen as a victory of humility over arrogance. Learn more here
- Traditions: People create a small hill made of cow dung, symbolizing Govardhan, and worship it. Temples prepare large offerings of food, known as Annakut.
- Regional Variations: In North India, this day focuses on preparing grand feasts, while in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, it’s known as Bali Pratipada or Bali Padyami, celebrating the victory of Lord Vishnu as Vamana over King Bali. Learn more here.
In Gujarat, Annakut is the first day of the new year and celebrated through the purchase of essentials, or sabras (literally, “good things in life”), such as salt, offering prayers to Krishna and visiting temples.
Trade and merchant families and others also offer prayers to Goddess Saraswati, who embodies music, literature and learning and Kubera, who symbolizes book-keeping, treasury and wealth management.
In western states such as Gujarat, and certain northern Hindu communities of India, the festival of Diwali signifies the start of a new year and a new Financial year.
Day 5: Bhai Dooj – Celebrating the Bond of Siblings
The final day of Diwali, Bhai Dooj, honors the bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters pray for their brothers’ long life, and brothers vow to protect their sisters.
- Mythical Story: This tradition is linked to the meeting of Yamraj, the god of death, with his sister Yamuna. Yama granted her a boon that every brother who visits his sister on this day will live long and prosper.
- Traditions: Sisters apply a ceremonial tilak on their brothers’ foreheads, perform aarti, and exchange sweets. Brothers, in turn, give gifts to their sisters.
- Regional Variations: In Maharashtra, this day is celebrated as Bhau Beej, with similar sibling rituals. In Bihar and UP, it’s marked by family gatherings and feasts.
Regional Variations: How Diwali is Celebrated Across India
Diwali’s core themes remain consistent, but each region brings its unique touch to the festival.
North India: A Celebration of Rama’s Return
- Traditions: Diwali is linked to Rama’s victory over Ravana. Homes are decorated with diyas, and streets are lit with dazzling lights.
- Foods: Families prepare sweets like Gujia, Kaju Katli, and Ladoos.
- Special Customs: Elaborate Ramlila performances narrating Lord Rama’s life are held in many towns.
South India: Deepavali and Narakasura’s Defeat
- Traditions: In South India, Deepavali celebrates Lord Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura. People take early morning oil baths and wear new clothes.
- Foods: Popular treats include Murukku, Adhirasam, and Mysore Pak.
- Special Customs: Lighting lamps before sunrise and bursting crackers early in the morning.
West India: Lakshmi and New Beginnings
- Traditions: In Gujarat and Maharashtra, Diwali marks the new financial year. Businesspeople perform Lakshmi Puja and close old accounts.
- Foods: Shrikhand, Chakli, and Farsan are common festive foods.
- Special Customs: Families decorate their homes with rangolis and welcome guests with sweets.
East India: Kali Puja and the Worship of the Fierce Goddess
- Traditions: In West Bengal, Diwali coincides with Kali Puja, where Goddess Kali is worshipped with elaborate pandals and rituals.
- Foods: Popular sweets include Rasgulla and Sandesh.
- Special Customs: Kali Puja is celebrated through the night, with pandals and firecrackers symbolizing the destruction of evil.
Diwali Around the World: Celebrating with the Indian Diaspora
For the Indian diaspora, Diwali represents a connection to cultural roots. Large-scale celebrations are held in countries like the United States, UK, Canada, Singapore, and Mauritius. Community events, including lighting ceremonies, fireworks, and traditional dance performances, are embraced not only by Indians but also by local communities who celebrate the festival’s universal message of hope and joy.
Spiritual and Environmental Significance
While Diwali is a time for celebration, it is also a period of spiritual reflection. The festival encourages people to dispel darkness and ignorance from their lives and embrace knowledge, light, and goodness.
- Eco-Friendly Diwali: In recent years, many have adopted eco-friendly practices, reducing the use of firecrackers, opting for sustainable decorations, and donating to the less fortunate.
Foods of Diwali: A Culinary Journey Across India
Diwali is as much about food as it is about lights. Each region of India has its own special dishes that make the celebration delicious and memorable.
- North India: Kaju Katli, Jalebi, Petha.
- South India: Payasam, Murukku, Mysore Pak.
- West India: Farsan, Chakli, Shrikhand.
- East India: Rasgulla, Sandesh, Nimki.
FAQs About Diwali
- Why is Diwali celebrated over five days?
Diwali spans five days, each with its own significance, from Dhanteras (welcoming wealth) to Bhai Dooj (honoring sibling bonds). - What is the story behind Diwali?
Diwali marks Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana, and also celebrates Lakshmi’s blessings and Krishna’s defeat of Narakasura. - How is Diwali different in various regions of India?
In North India, it celebrates Lord Rama’s return, while in South India, it’s linked to Lord Krishna’s victory. East India focuses on Kali Puja. - What foods are prepared during Diwali?
Regional sweets like Kaju Katli in North India, Murukku in South India, and Rasgulla in East India are popular. - What is the proper greeting for Diwali?
‘Happy Diwali’ or ‘Happy Deepavali’ will do the trick, but there are other Diwali wishes you can say to anyone celebrating the festival. A traditional Diwali greeting is to say “Wishing you a Diwali that brings happiness prosperity and joy to you and all your family”.
Conclusion: Diwali – A Festival That Unites Us All
Diwali is more than just a festival; it’s a reminder of the power of light, hope, and unity. Across India and the world, families come together to celebrate the triumph of good over evil, making Diwali a truly global festival. Whether through traditional pujas, eco-friendly celebrations, or sharing sweets with loved ones, Diwali remains a festival that brings people together.
Languages!
India is a linguistically diverse country with over 1.3 billion people speaking more than 19,500 languages and dialects. However, according to the 2011 Census of India, the total number of mother tongues spoken in the country is 1,369. Out of these, the top 10 most widely spoken languages in India are:
(Image Source for the header image)
- Hindi – 41% of the population
- Bengali – 8.1% of the population
- Telugu – 7.9% of the population
- Marathi – 7.9% of the population
- Tamil – 6.7% of the population
- Gujarati – 4.6% of the population
- Urdu – 4.2% of the population
- Kannada – 3.6% of the population
- Odia – 3.1% of the population
- Punjabi – 2.9% of the population
Filpro, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
Distribution of Language speakers
Below is the sentence “What is your name?” translated into the scripts of the top 10 Indian languages with their English transliteration:
- Hindi: Devanagari script: आपका नाम क्या है?
- How to say it: Āpkā nām kyā hai?
- Bengali: Bengali script: তোমার নাম কি?
- How to say it: Tomar nam ki?
- Telugu: Telugu script: మీ పేరు ఏమిటి?
- How to say it: Mī pēru ēmiṭi?
- Marathi: Devanagari script: तुमचं नाव काय आहे?
- How to say it: Tumacha nāv kāy āhe?
- Tamil: Tamil script: உங்கள் பெயர் என்ன?
- How to say it: Ungaḷ peyar enna?
- Gujarati: Gujarati script: તમારૂં નામ શું છે?
- How to say it: Tamārūṃ nām shuṃ che?
- Urdu: Perso-Arabic script: آپ کا نام کیا ہے؟
- How to say it: Aap ka naam kya hai?
- Kannada: Kannada script: ನಿಮ್ಮ ಹೆಸರು ಯಾವುದು?
- How to say it: Nimma hesaru yavudu?
- Oriya: Odia script: ତୁଙ୍କ ନାମ କେଉଁଠିକ?
- How to say it: Tunka nāma keuthik?
- Punjabi: Gurmukhi script: ਤੁਹਾਡਾ ਨਾਮ ਕੀ ਹੈ?
- How to say it: Tuhāḍā nām kī hai?
The age of these languages varies widely. For example, Tamil is one of the oldest surviving classical languages in the world, with a history dating back over 2,000 years. On the other hand, Hindi is a relatively modern language that emerged in the 19th century.
Most of the major languages in India have their own scripts. For example, Hindi and Marathi use the Devanagari script, while Tamil has its own script known as Tamil script. However, there are some languages that do not have their own script and use the script of another language. For example, Urdu uses the Arabic script, while Konkani and some other languages use the Roman script.
Many Indian languages have their own works of famous literature. For example, the Sanskrit epic poem, the Ramayana, is one of the most famous works of literature in India and has been translated into many Indian languages. Other notable works include the Tamil epic poem, the Silappatikaram, and the Bengali novel, Devdas.
India has a wide variety of dialects in addition to its languages.
For example, Hindi has several dialects, including Bhojpuri, Braj, and Haryanvi. Tamil has several dialects, including Madras Tamil, Coimbatore Tamil, and Tirunelveli Tamil. Other examples of dialects in India include Punjabi, Bengali, and Marathi.
To get an idea about how widely dialects vary – let’s look at Telugu, #3 on the list above – since it’s widely spoken but in a smaller geographic area:
Telugu has several dialects that are spoken in different regions of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Some of the major dialects of Telugu include:
- Andhra dialect: This dialect is spoken in the coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh, including Krishna, Guntur, and East Godavari. It is considered to be the standard dialect of Telugu.
- Rayalaseema dialect: This dialect is spoken in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, which includes the districts of Anantapur, Kadapa, Kurnool, and Chittoor. It is characterized by its distinctive pronunciation and vocabulary.
- Telangana dialect: This dialect is spoken in the Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh, which includes the districts of Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and Medak. It has a unique vocabulary and pronunciation that sets it apart from other Telugu dialects.
- Vadaga dialect: This dialect is spoken in the border areas between Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. It has been heavily influenced by Tamil and has a distinct vocabulary and pronunciation.
Overall, Telugu is a rich and diverse language with a long history and cultural significance. It is the third most spoken language in India and is widely used in literature, films, and music.
In addition to the top four most widely spoken languages listed above (Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, and Marathi), some other notable Indian languages and their dialects include:
- Tamil – dialects include Madras Tamil, Coimbatore Tamil, and Tirunelveli Tamil
- Gujarati – dialects include Kachchi, Surati, and Kathiawadi
- Kannada – dialects include Mysore Kannada, Mangalore Kannada, and Gulbarga Kannada
- Malayalam – dialects include Travancore Malayalam, Cochin Malayalam, and Palakkad Malayalam.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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