Delhi, so to speak!

If language defines who and what we are, the Delhiite is at once affectionate (what better evidence than the B-word?); innovative (most words have a partner in rhyme a la burger-shurger); and unconventional (you won’t find aaeeyo, jaaeeyo in any textbook). Here are sound bytes from typical Delhi-isms.
Naa ki hai ji? (What’s your name?): You have everybody from Mummyji to Auntyji.What’s more, even verbs are suffixed with ji — as in aao ji, khao ji.
Papiyaan-japhiyaan paa lo! (Hug each other!): Delhi expresses its affection physically. When friends meet, they hug; after they make up after a fight, they hug!
Aaj mera happy ber-day (birthday) ho gaya/watt lag gayi (I’m in trouble!): The unassuming ear might not catch the sarcasm, but ‘happy birthday’ means trouble is in the air!
Chhad yaar, koi gal nahin, sanu ki? (Let it be, no problem, what goes of my father?): No matter what happens, it’s chhad yaar, koi gal nahin. Specially when the benevolent forgiver has nothing to lose. As they say, sanu ki?
Oye, tuchcha/jhalla log! (You guys are cheap/not cool): A hint of pettiness, and the offender in the ‘tuchcha’ category. As for the jhalla crowd, these folks have no style.
Jhand ho gayee/lassi ho gayi! (It couldn’t be worse): Like when a girl promises to meet a guy alone, but lands up with friends! When expectations fall flat, this is the perfect expression!
Aaj kal, I’m ekdum vela (I am completely free): Simply put, it’s an euphemism for telling others that you have absolutely nothing to do!
Munda sona hai/bandi tot hai! (The guy/girl is good-looking): Used within the peer group, it’s a compliment with a rustic touch.
Meri toh daath (death) ho gayi! (I was floored): Miss PYT sees Mr TDH and becomes smitten. Here’s how it goes: ‘Patai, maine toh kaha usko ass-cuse (excuse) me, phir uske rad-rad (red-red) baale-bottoms dekh kar, meri toh daath ho gayi!’ It’s supposed to sound cute. Like the ubiquitous: he’s so chweet, nah?
divyavasisht@indiatimes.com