The 35 Akhri is the foundational alphabet of the Punjabi language, written in the Gurmukhi script. It comprises 35 letters, each with its unique pronunciation and significance. Learning these letters is the first step in mastering Punjabi and understanding its rich linguistic and cultural heritage.
Importance of the 35 Akhri
- Foundation of Gurmukhi Script: The 35 Akhri forms the core of the Gurmukhi script, used primarily for writing Punjabi.
- Phonetic Representation: Each letter represents a distinct sound, making the script logical and phonetic.
- Cultural Significance: Mastering the 35 Akhri helps in reading Sikh scriptures and Punjabi literature.
The 35 Akhri Alphabet Table
Below is a table representing the 35 letters of the Gurmukhi script. Familiarize yourself with these letters to start your journey into the Punjabi language.
| ਓ (“Oora”) | ਅ (“Aira”) | ੲ (“Eeri”) | ਸ (“Sassa”) | ਹ (“Haha”) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ਕ (“Ka”) | ਖ (“Kha”) | ਗ (“Ga”) | ਘ (“Gha”) | ਙ (“Nga”) |
| ਚ (“Cha”) | ਛ (“Chha”) | ਜ (“Ja”) | ਝ (“Jha”) | ਞ (“Nya”) |
| ਟ (“Ta”) | ਠ (“Tha”) | ਡ (“Da”) | ਢ (“Dha”) | ਣ (“Na”) |
| ਤ (“Tta”) | ਥ (“Ttha”) | ਦ (“Dda”) | ਧ (“Ddha”) | ਨ (“Nna”) |
| ਪ (“Pa”) | ਫ (“Pha”) | ਬ (“Ba”) | ਭ (“Bha”) | ਮ (“Ma”) |
| ਯ (“Ya”) | ਰ (“Ra”) | ਲ (“La”) | ਵ (“Va”) | ਸ (“Sa”) |
How to Learn the 35 Akhri
- Practice Writing: Repeatedly write each letter to familiarize yourself with its shape and form.
- Pronunciation Practice: Listen to native speakers or use language learning apps to master the correct pronunciation.
- Use Flashcards: Create flashcards for each letter to enhance recall.
- Combine Letters: Practice combining letters to form simple words and phrases.
Final Thoughts
Learning the 35 Akhri is a crucial step in understanding Punjabi and the Gurmukhi script. Whether you’re exploring the language for cultural, spiritual, or personal reasons, mastering these letters will set a strong foundation for your linguistic journey.