Javed Akhtar Sheds Light on Lucknow's Linguistic Heritage: 'Hum' as a Symbol of Gender Neutrality
In a heartfelt address at an event organized by the Com Shankar Dayal Tewari Memorial Committee at the Urdu Academy in Lucknow on Sunday, renowned screenwriter, poet, and lyricist Javed Akhtar delved into the cultural nuances of the city's language. He emphasized that when residents of Lucknow use the term 'Hum' (we), it is often misinterpreted as vanity or arrogance, but in reality, it serves as a gender-neutral alternative to the more individualistic 'Main' (I).
Beyond Gender: The Essence of Lucknow's Vocabulary
Akhtar explained, "People in Lucknow do not say 'Main,' and it is almost vulgar to say 'Main ja raha hu' or 'Main ja rahi hu.' Instead, they use 'Hum,' which is neither male nor female-centric." This linguistic practice, he noted, reflects a deeper cultural ethos rooted in the city's Awadh heritage, where collective identity often takes precedence over individual expression.
Personal Reflections: Lucknow's Lasting Influence
Recalling his early years, Akhtar shared, "When I left Lucknow, I was 12 or 13 years old, but as experts say, one's personality is formed by the age of 8, and thereafter, you only collect data. So, whatever good or bad I have imbibed, Lucknow is responsible for it." He expressed joy in seeing that even younger generations, born decades later, continue to carry this city's pride in their speech and demeanor.
He added, "Whenever I come to Lucknow, I am delighted to see that there is still a lot of Awadh left, felt in the vocabulary and the way people talk." This observation highlights the enduring legacy of Lucknow's cultural and linguistic traditions in an ever-changing world.
Contrasting Times: From Childhood Memories to Modern Parenting
Akhtar also contrasted his upbringing with contemporary parenting styles. He reminisced about his time at Colvin Taluqdars' College, where he studied among children from affluent families. At the age of 8, he once threw a tantrum to convince his parents to buy him expensive branded shoes, only to face lifelong admonishment. "Aur us ke liye zindagi bhar joote pade," he quipped, recalling taunts like "In ko to ameeri ka shauq hai, 19 rupaye ka joota pehnte hai" that still echo in his ears.
Reflecting on modern times, he noted how parents today often avoid scolding children for fear of causing emotional disturbance, a stark difference from his own childhood experiences. This humorous yet poignant anecdote underscored the evolution of societal norms over the decades.
A Broader Perspective: Atheism and Patriotism
Beyond linguistic insights, Akhtar touched on his identity as an atheist, stating, "Unlike those who have a choice between loving religion or the country, atheists like me faced no such posers as we only love the country." This remark added a layer of philosophical depth to his speech, connecting personal beliefs with national allegiance.
Overall, Javed Akhtar's address not only clarified a common misconception about Lucknow's language but also celebrated the city's enduring cultural spirit, making it a memorable tribute to Comrade Shankar Dayal and the values he represented.
