They/Them Pronouns in Hindi
We all want to be inclusive, and sometimes it is difficult to do so in a new language.
If you know someone, (or if you yourself) use They/Them pronouns, there is a very easy and clear-cut way to do so in Hindi/Urdu.
Here’s how you can use They/Them pronouns in Hindi/Urdu.
When you talk about yourself, all you need to do is replace the “main” (translates to “I”) with “hum” (translates to “we”).
Then, all the following conjugations will be pluralized based on “hum.”
This may sound strange, BUT using “we” in Hindi instead of “I” is already a common way for people to talk about themselves. Of course, this is more common in some parts of the subcontinent, vs. others.
E.g. Hum paani pi rahe hain. (I am drinking water)
Or Hum ghar par lunch khaa-te hain. (I eat lunch at home)
When you talk about others, all you need to do is use the “voh” (translates to “they”).
This usually means “they” plural but can be used as “they” singular just like in English.
E.g. Voh paani pi rahe hain. (They are drinking water.)
or Voh ghar par lunch khaa-te hain. (They eat lunch at home.)
Will this sound strange to a Hindi-Urdu speaker?
No! This is a common way for people to talk.
“Hum” is a poetic, royal way to say “I” — so there is absolutely precedence to do this.
Also using “voh” for a singular person is another way of showing someone respect.
So yes, it already works in both situations.
And if you still are worried, check out this clip from “Hum Aapke Hain Kaun” — using “hum” instead of “main” all over the place!