The Gurmukhi vowel symbol “Sihari” (ਿ) is a key element of the Punjabi script. It represents the short “i” sound, as in the word “pin.” Learning to use Sihari accurately is essential for building proficiency in reading and writing Punjabi.
What is Sihari?
Sihari (ਿ) is a matra (vowel symbol) that is written before the base consonant but pronounced after it. It modifies the inherent vowel sound of the consonant to a short “i” sound. For example:
- ਕ + ਿ = ਕਿ (Ka + Sihari = Ki)
- ਗ + ਿ = ਗਿ (Ga + Sihari = Gi)
- ਪ + ਿ = ਪਿ (Pa + Sihari = Pi)
Practice Words with Sihari
Here is a list of simple Punjabi words that use Sihari. Practice these words to familiarize yourself with its usage.First try to guess the pronunciation and later look at the solution below
| Punjabi Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ਕਿ | What |
| ਸਿਖ | Learner/Disciple |
| ਗਿਰ | Fall |
| ਚਿਤ | Mind/Attention |
| ਰਿਸ | Wrath |
| ਪਿਤ | Father |
| ਮਿਠਾ | Sweet |
| ਦਿਨ | Day |
| ਮਿਲ | Meet |
| ਨਿਜ | Own/Personal |
| Punjabi Word | Pronunciation | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| ਕਿ | Ki | What |
| ਸਿਖ | Sikh | Learner/Disciple |
| ਗਿਰ | Gir | Fall |
| ਚਿਤ | Chit | Mind/Attention |
| ਰਿਸ | Ris | Wrath |
| ਪਿਤ | Pit | Father |
| ਮਿਠਾ | Mitha | Sweet |
| ਦਿਨ | Din | Day |
| ਮਿਲ | Mil | Meet |
| ਨਿਜ | Nij | Own/Personal |
Tips for Practicing Sihari Words
- Practice Writing: Write the words repeatedly to understand the placement of Sihari (before the consonant).
- Pronunciation Practice: Focus on the short “i” sound and ensure it follows the consonant.
- Combine with Consonants: Practice adding Sihari to all Gurmukhi consonants (ਕ, ਖ, ਗ, etc.) for better understanding.
- Use Flashcards: Make flashcards with the word on one side and its pronunciation/meaning on the other.
- Read Sentences: Incorporate Sihari words into sentences for context and fluency.
Example Sentences with Sihari
- ਕਿ ਤੁਸੀਂ ਸਿਖ ਰਹੇ ਹੋ? (Ki tusin sikh rahe ho?) – Are you learning?
- ਚਿਤ ਸਾਂਤ ਰੱਖੋ। (Chit saant rakho.) – Keep your mind calm.
- ਦਿਨ ਚੜ੍ਹ ਗਿਆ। (Din chadh gaya.) – The day has risen.
Final Thoughts
Mastering Sihari is a significant step in understanding Punjabi pronunciation and writing. By practicing these words and sentences regularly, you will develop fluency and confidence in using this essential vowel symbol. Make sure to revisit these examples often as part of your learning routine.