So you thought you’d impress your Bhojpuri-speaking friends with a few choice sayings, did you? Not so fast, buckaroo. Those pithy proverbs and folksy phrases don’t directly translate to English.
You’ll end up sounding like a fool who learned Bhojpuri from outdated phrasebooks and grainy YouTube videos. Before you unleash your inner bard, let us save you from embarrassment. We’ve done the heavy lifting to translate some popular Bhojpuri quotes into English while keeping their meaning and spirit intact.
Some gems of wisdom, others a glimpse into the wit and humor of Bhojpuri speakers. Consider this a public service to help you avoid awkward silences and confused looks at your next dinner party. You can thank us later. For now, enjoy these Bhojpuri quotes in English so you too can sound like a native, or at least less like a clueless tourist.
Introduction to Bhojpuri and Its Rich Culture
Bhojpuri is an Indo-Aryan language spoken primarily in the northern Indian states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Bhojpuri has a rich tradition of folk songs, stories, and quotes that provide a glimpse into the culture.
A taste of Bhojpuri wisdom
The Bhojpuri language is colorful, to say the least. Their proverbs and idioms are delightfully quirky and straight-shooting. For example:
- “Jab tak rahega samose mein aloo, tab tak rahega Bihari hulloo hulloo.”
(As long as there’s potato in the samosa, the Bihari will make noise.) They sure do love their snacks!
- “Bandar kya jaane adrak ka swad.”
(What does a monkey know about the taste of ginger?) In other words, don’t take advice from someone who has no experience in the matter.
- “Bihari babu ke ghar mein chaar cheez hamesha rahti hai – Daaru, Suta, Juta aur Luta.”
(There are four things always present in a Bihari babu’s house: alcohol, sleeping, footwear and quarrel). Apparently, some cultural stereotypes persist!
Bhojpuri folklore has influenced Bollywood songs, with “Laaga Chunari Mein Daag” and “Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna” being prime examples. Bhojpuri films have gained more mainstream popularity in recent years as well.
There’s no doubt Bhojpuri culture is bold, loud and eccentric. But beneath its peculiarities lies a deep reverence for life’s simple pleasures – time with loved ones, spicy food, lively music and unfiltered self-expression. And who can’t get behind that?
Best Bhojpuri Proverbs Translated to English
The Bhojpuri language is chock full of colorful proverbs and sayings. Translated to English, some are amusingly insightful. Others are just amusing.
2. Best Bhojpuri Proverbs Translated to English
Have you heard “Jab tak rahega samose mein aloo, tab tak rahega Bihar mein laloo”? Roughly translated, it means “As long as there are potatoes in samosas, Laloo will rule Bihar.” A wry observation on the political prowess of former Chief Minister Laloo Prasad Yadav.
Or how about “Sasuraal jaate waqt beti roye, wapas aate waqt sasu roye”? When the daughter is going to her in-laws’ house she cries, and when she’s coming back her mother-in-law cries. An irreverent take on the drama surrounding a bride’s arrival and departure in a traditional joint family.
Then there’s “Apan dharti ke baalak hain, kahin bhi sot saken hain”. We are children of the earth, we can sleep anywhere. Sums up the rustic resilience and adaptability of many Bhojpuri speakers.
And for the romantic at heart, “Chand pe chandani, chandani pe chand, ham to tere sang rahenge, jahan bhi tu chale jayega band band.” The moon has moonlight, the moonlight has the moon, I will always be with you, wherever you go, at every step. Aww.
Bhojpuri may be an earthy, unpretentious language, but it has a poetic soul and humor in spades. No wonder its colorful proverbs and sayings have endured for generations.
Most Famous Bhojpuri Songs and Their English Translations
The Bhojpuri music scene is filled with songs that are meant to make you laugh, cry and ponder life’s deepest questions—often all at the same time. Many of the most well-known Bhojpuri songs have been translated into English, allowing non-speakers to appreciate the drama, humor and emotion.
“Lollypop Lagelu”
This energetic party song by Pawan Singh is all about dancing the night away with your sweetheart. The lyrics translate to: “Put on the lollypop, let’s get crazy on the dance floor.” Clearly, subtlety is not the goal here. But with a beat that infectious, who needs it?
“Sasura Bada Paisawala”
This folksy tune by Kalpana Patowary celebrates the joys of marrying a rich father-in-law. The title means “My father-in-law is very rich” and the lyrics gleefully describe expensive gifts like cars, homes and lavish weddings. It’s a tongue-in-cheek ode to the material benefits of a prosperous in-law.
“Aila Re Aila”
One of Bhojpuri cinema’s most popular actors, Ravi Kishan, belts out this emotional ballad about lost love and longing for what might have been. The sorrowful lyrics, translating to “Come, oh come, my darling” are bound to inspire some nostalgia for past relationships and “the one that got away”. Keep tissues on hand.
From silly to sentimental and everything in between, Bhojpuri songs run the gamut of human emotions and experiences. While the language barrier may be an obstacle, heartbreak and hilarity know no boundaries. Let these translated hits transport you to the joy, passion and humor of Bhojpuri culture.
Hilarious Bhojpuri One-Liners in English
Bhojpuri is a language spoken primarily in eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar in northern India. Like any regional language, Bhojpuri has a rich tradition of pithy sayings and witty comebacks. Translated into English, some of these Bhojpuri one-liners are comedy gold.
“Bhains ke aage been bajana”
This translates to “playing the flute in front of a buffalo”. In other words, wasting your time doing something pointless that will accomplish nothing. We’ve all been guilty of this at some point, am I right?
“Jab tak rahega samose mein aloo, tab tak rahega Bihar mein laloo”
As long as there are potatoes in samosas, Lalu will remain in Bihar. A dig at the allegedly corrupt former chief minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, who seemed impossible to get rid of, much like the potatoes in samosas.
“Kaan khol kar sun lo, kahe ek bihari sab pe bhari”
Open your ears and listen, says one Bihari, I can take on anyone. Biharis are known for their pride and confidence in their abilities, even if sometimes unjustified! This saying pokes fun at that swagger.
“Garmi mein AC, sardi mein razai, Bihari ka na koi bharosa”
In summer AC, in winter quilt, on Biharis there’s no reliance. Another jab suggesting Biharis are fickle or indecisive, switching between extremes based on the season. But we know that’s not true of all Biharis, right?
Bhojpuri folk wisdom may be irreverent, but it’s also insightful. These sayings highlight the wit and humor to be found in everyday situations, even if at the expense of certain groups. Just remember, before taking offense, that they are meant as lighthearted jokes, not to be taken too seriously!
How to Use Bhojpuri Phrases in Everyday English
So you want to spice up your English with some classic Bhojpuri phrases, do you? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a few ways to casually drop some Bhojpuri into your everyday English conversations:
Translate Common Greetings
When meeting friends, try “Namaskar” (hello) or “Sabhalo?” (how are you?). For parting, say “Ram Ram” (goodbye) or “Khuda Hafiz” (may God be with you).
Express Strong Feelings
Had a rotten day? Exclaim “Arre wah!” (oh no!). Witness something unbelievable? Say “Arey baap re!” (oh my God!). Really like that new outfit? Tell a friend “Bahut sundar lag raha hai” (you’re looking very beautiful).
Season Your Speech
For emphasis, say “Bilkul” (absolutely). To show surprise, say “Achcha!” (really!). When agreeing with someone, say “Hanji” (yes, indeed). To get someone’s attention, call out “Arey suno!” (hey, listen!).
Describe Everyday Things
Refer to money as “paise” (coins) or “rupaiya” (rupees). Call a vehicle a “gaadi” (car) or “scooty” (scooter). Refer to food as “khana” (meal) or “paan” (betel leaf). Describe the weather as “garmi” (hot) or “sardi” (cold).
Issue Lighthearted Warnings
If a friend is annoying you, teasingly threaten “Arey chup kar, varna thappad padega!” (be quiet or you’ll get slapped!). Caution an impatient person “Sabr rakh, varna pachtaoge” (have patience or you’ll regret it). Warn a gossiping friend “Jab tak dant na tode, tab tak mooh na khule” (don’t open your mouth until your teeth are broken).
With practice, these Bhojpuri phrases will soon roll off your tongue. But use discretion – dropping too much Bhojpuri into English conversation could lead to some confused looks from friends and “Arey pagla gayela hai kya?” (have you gone mad?) from bewildered family members!
Conclusion
So there you have it, a sampling of popular Bhojpuri proverbs translated for your reading pleasure. Next time you’re looking to spice up a boring conversation or drop some wisdom on an unsuspecting friend, you’ll be armed with a few gems from one of India’s richest linguistic traditions.
Just remember, with great power comes great responsibility, so wield your newfound Bhojpuri superpowers judiciously. And the next time you’re watching an over-the-top Bhojpuri action flick and find yourself scratching your head at the colorful turns of phrase, you can nod knowingly – you’re in on the secret now.
You’ve peeked behind the curtain of one of India’s most vibrant regional languages. What mysteries will you uncover next? The world is your oyster, or as they say in Bhojpuri, ‘Jahan chaah wahan raah.’ The path is wherever you want it to be. Now go forth and spread the Bhojpuri love!
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