The Gurmukhi vowel symbol “Dulankar” (ੂ) represents the long “uu” sound, as in the word “food.” It is an essential matra (vowel symbol) in Punjabi, enabling the formation of words with an elongated vowel sound. Mastering Dulankar is important for accurate reading, writing, and pronunciation in Punjabi.
What is Dulankar?
Dulankar (ੂ) is a matra added beneath a consonant to modify its inherent vowel sound to a long “uu.” For example:
- ਕ + ੂ = ਕੂ (Ka + Dulankar = Kuu)
- ਗ + ੂ = ਗੂ (Ga + Dulankar = Guu)
- ਪ + ੂ = ਪੂ (Pa + Dulankar = Puu)
Practice Words with Dulankar
Here is a list of commonly used Punjabi words featuring Dulankar. Practice these words to become comfortable with its usage.First try to guess the pronunciation and later look at the solution below.
| Punjabi Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ਪੂਰਾ | Complete |
| ਦੂਜਾ | Second |
| ਮੂਲ | Root |
| ਸੂਝ | Insight |
| ਗੁਰੂ | Teacher/Master |
| ਧੂਪ | Sunlight |
| ਚੂੜੀ | Bangle |
| ਸੂਰਜ | Sun |
| ਭੂਮਿਕਾ | Role |
| ਜੂਤ | Shoe |
| Punjabi Word | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ਪੂਰਾ | Poora | Complete |
| ਦੂਜਾ | Dooja | Second |
| ਮੂਲ | Mool | Root |
| ਸੂਝ | Soojh | Insight |
| ਗੁਰੂ | Guru | Teacher/Master |
| ਧੂਪ | Dhoop | Sunlight |
| ਚੂੜੀ | Choori | Bangle |
| ਸੂਰਜ | Sooraj | Sun |
| ਭੂਮਿਕਾ | Bhoomika | Role |
| ਜੂਤ | Joot | Shoe |
Tips for Practicing Dulankar Words
- Write Regularly: Repeatedly write the words to get familiar with the placement of Dulankar under consonants.
- Pronunciation Practice: Focus on elongating the “uu” sound naturally.
- Combine with Consonants: Practice attaching Dulankar to all Gurmukhi consonants (ਕ, ਖ, ਗ, etc.) to enhance understanding.
- Flashcards: Use flashcards to memorize words and their meanings.
- Contextual Usage: Practice forming sentences with Dulankar words for better fluency.
Example Sentences with Dulankar
- ਪੂਰਾ ਕੰਮ ਹੋ ਗਿਆ। (Poora kam ho gaya.) – The work is complete.
- ਗੁਰੂ ਦੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਮਹੱਤਵਪੂਰਣ ਹੈ। (Guru di sikhia mahatvapooran hai.) – The teacher’s teachings are important.
- ਧੂਪ ਤੇ ਛਾਂ ਦਾ ਮੌਸਮ ਹੈ। (Dhoop te chhaan da mausam hai.) – It is a sunny and shady weather.
Final Thoughts
Practicing Dulankar is a crucial step in mastering Punjabi pronunciation and script. By dedicating regular time to these words and sentences, you will enhance your understanding and usage of this important vowel symbol. Keep revisiting these examples to solidify your learning.