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In an era striving for gender-neutral language, why do we still insist on feminine forms for professions? We do not call a female lawyer a “vakilini,” yet terms like “adhyaksha” are used, though inconsistently.

Patriarchy Embedded in Language

It is no secret that our society operates on a deeply patriarchal framework, reflected in festivals, traditions, attire, speech, and daily interactions. Historically, this gender bias may have gone unnoticed, but with women increasingly entering education, workplaces, and positions of authority, linguistic inequities become more evident. As women assert themselves in previously male-dominated spaces, language must evolve to acknowledge their presence.

The Experiment with Feminine Terms

Recently, NBT has started experimenting with feminine forms of traditionally masculine Hindi words to address this imbalance. Terms like “ballebaazini” (female batter), “niveshika” (female investor), and “sainika” (female soldier) have appeared in print. While such terms aim to highlight gender, they often feel awkward, grammatically unnecessary, and sometimes comical. For instance, we never say “vakilini” for a female lawyer, yet we attempt words like “ballebaazini.” Hindi grammar already conveys gender clearly: “wah achhi doctor hai” versus “wah achha doctor hai”.

Even titles of powerful figures, like Indira Gandhi, were never suffixed with “-mantri” for gender; her authority was recognized through context. Similarly, “adhyaksh” or “sampadak” apply to men and women alike, proving that professional titles do not need to be gendered.

Problems With Forced Feminization

Creating separate feminine forms often leads to confusion and unnecessary complexity. For instance, should we call a transgender cricketer a “ballebaja”? Feminine suffixes like “-ini” or “-trī” may not be necessary when the original term is inclusive and understood. English has successfully adopted gender-neutral terms, like “chairperson” instead of “chairman,” which is both simple and effective.

True Equality Goes Beyond Words

While language reforms are important, true equality cannot be achieved through words alone. Society’s mindset must change. Hindi, like any language, carries deep-seated biases in idioms, slang, and folk expressions, many of which are demeaning to women and marginalized communities. Merely creating feminine nouns or altering syntax does not dismantle patriarchy. We must confront the roots of sexism, challenge social norms, and ensure that women receive real respect and equality in every sphere of life.

Moreover, the overuse of English terms in Hindi media further complicates linguistic identity. Words like “rescue” replacing “raahat” or “bachav” illustrate a careless adoption of foreign language, which can dilute cultural and grammatical integrity.

Conclusion

Language can be a powerful tool for social change, but only if used thoughtfully. Feminine forms are symbolic, yet systemic change in society is what truly empowers women. Attack the roots of patriarchy, respect women’s rights, and ensure that equality is reflected both in language and life.

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