Cultures and Communities - I

If you happen to hear the phrase "swalpa adjust maadi" being used anywhere in your vicinity you can be sure that it is a Kannadiga who's uttering it. Now there are many people to whom the very term Kannadiga seems Greek and Latin, but believe me, it has nothing to do with either of these two languages. Rather, it has to do with the language Kannada. This is the language spoken by the people whose roots lie in Karnataka regardless of where they are settled today. All through my childhood in a little Maharashtrian town, I grew accustomed to hearing people mistakenly call our community by as diverse sounding names as a Kannad, Kaanadi or even Madrasi. Time and again I explained that we are not Madrasis but our simple Maharashtrian neighbors just smiled benignly as though they knew better than us. Coming back to the phrase "swalpa adjust maadi" - it literally means "please adjust a little," and is used as a metaphor in daily life. A lady commuter standing in a bus may use the phrase to acquire a little place on an already occupied seat. A father may use the phrase to a college principal imploring him to admit his ward into the college's portals. And so forth.

Within the Kannadiga community, you are likely to find a number of sub-communities like Gowdas, Lingayats, Madhwas and such diverse sounding names. Each one has its own peculiarities and quirks. However, when occasion and need demands, all these umbrella communities can come together and appear very much united. One such occasion was when the idol of the entire state, Dr. Rajkumar, was kidnapped. He may have been only a popular actor as far as the rest of the country was concerned but within the state he was revered and respected as a living legend. Every Kannadiga worth his salt prayed for the safe release of Annavaru, as he is affectionately called by the people. On a daily basis people called upon his family to offer their moral support and comforting words. Upon his release a few months later, there were large-scale celebrations everywhere.

Kannadigas are very famous for their hospitality. Even if you happen to be a mere acquaintance you will merit a cup of coffee on entering a Kannadiga household. And if you happen to be a good friend, never mind how many times you have visited the family, you will get a coconut with betel leaves as a mark of respect when you take your leave.

The Kannadiga heart swells with pride when cricket is mentioned. Seeing the local youngsters like Rahul Dravid and Anil Kumble rise up to such heights of glory makes them want to gloat with glee. Personalities like Girish Karnad have made their name in the literary world and achieved accolades for their works in Kannada.

Just like every other Indian language has embraced English to form its own khichdi version, Kannada-blended English too is popularly used in the state. "Enjoy maadi" is one such sample which means "do enjoy." Have a great day folks and enjoy maadi!