Baigan More than just a cliche for Hyderabadis

Hyderabad: For venting their emotions, people around the world use different words or phrases.But for Hyderabadis, the use of single word 'Baigan' has become a clichéin expressing their feelings.Be it positive or negative, failure or success or a warning to someone, the slang word is commonly used by everyone,including kids, elderly and even woman.

The scientificname of Baigan is 'Solanum Melongena.'In English,it is called Brinjal or Eggplant.In Telugu, it is'Vankaya.' For Hyderabadis, it is not just the name of a vegetable, but the word and the way it is expressed describes the sentiments in different ways.

A day won't pass without the use of the word, Baigan, fortypical Hyderabadi.In failure, the word can be used as "Baigan me milgayayaro." In success,"Baigan, mai pass hogaya," and while giving a warning, the word can be used as "Baigan me miladetu." For instance, if one has to describe the condition of his vehicle following an accident, he can describe the entire incident citing 'GadiBaigan me milgayi.'

The curry, 'Bagare Baigan' is one of the most favorite dishes of Hyderabadis,especially when served with Hyderabadi Dum Ki Biryani. Their love for 'Baigan' reached a new level when the word entered the slang. So popular is the word that Hyderabadis use 'Baigan' for every alternate word.It has become part of the popular slang, just like American usage of the word 'Holy.'

Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi has recently said 'Baigan ku Bolo' during the recent election campaign, sending a clear message to his opponents. From school to college, all students use the word.

For example, if teacher comes late to class, the students usually say 'kya Baigan, teacher hi class ku late aaye,' or 'class ku late aaya mai aj to sir meku mardiye Baigan'," said Fazl-ul-Rahman, a junior college student. The first renowned poet of Urdu shayari was Quli Qutub Shah. Hyderabadis feel proud of their language.