PUKKA SAHIB Meaning and
Definition
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The term "pukka sahib" is a noun phrase derived from British Indian English, primarily used during the colonial era to describe Englishmen who occupied high-ranking positions in the Indian civil service or military. The phrase combines the Hindi word "pukka," meaning genuine or authentic, with the Urdu word "sahib," which translates to "master" or "sir."
Within the context of colonial India, a "pukka sahib" referred to a British individual who displayed an air of authority, sophistication, and superiority in their demeanor, clothing, and language. These individuals typically held significant positions of power and were associated with the British ruling class in India.
A pukka sahib was often depicted as adhering to English customs and norms, emulating their conduct, socializing within exclusive circles, and displaying an air of detachment or aloofness from the native population. The term conveys an image of an individual who considered themselves intellectually and culturally superior to the indigenous people of India.
The usage of "pukka sahib" extends beyond a mere description of a British colonial official to describe someone who embodies qualities of traditional British imperial dominance. It can also denote an individual who personifies the spirit of old-fashioned, sophisticated Englishness, regardless of their occupation or involvement in the colonial administration.
Etymology of PUKKA SAHIB
The term "pukka sahib" originated during the British colonial era in India. It is derived from the Hindi word "pakkā" (पक्का), which means "cooked" or "ripe" in English. In colonial usage, "pukka" was used to describe something genuine, authentic, or of superior quality.
The term "sahib" (صاحب) comes from Arabic and means "master" or "lord". It was adopted into various Indian languages through Persian, and eventually became common during the British Raj as a form of respectful address for a European gentleman or high-ranking official.
When combined, "pukka sahib" essentially referred to a properly trained and well-respected British gentleman or official who was considered reliable and of high social standing.
