Mind Your Language

Before you jump into conclusion that I am going to fire away my displeasure towards those who use foul language in public places – in the presence of children and the elderly, then hold your horses.. I am not going to do anything of that sort (for now… expect it for later). However much, I would very much love to do so, this post is not about that.

This is about the old British comedy series called “Mind your language”. I don’t know how many of you are aware that such a series existed , and is still popular among the viewers even today. If you are one of those who know, & perhaps watched this TV show in the past, then time to celebrate. And if you are hearing about this show for the first time (strongly recommended that you speak to your English teacher at school. She will appreciate you for this information), then you must make it a point to watch this show. This is currently being relayed in Zee CAFE – 6.00 pm (IST).

Click on the above image to view you tube videos on “Mind your language”

I must admit, I just can’t seem to get over my penchant for languages…. (oh! no… I am not into reading and comprehending any literary texts.. I find them full of jargons and very less flair)…. Earlier it was my post on YES Minister, and now its Mind your language… and I’am Loving this …
SOME FACTS about this show

This comedy series of 42 episodes were aired initially during 1977 -79 and rerun in 1986 , and now again in 2007-08 There is not much to speak by way of “Plot”. The events revolve around a certain “School of Languages” in London, where people from different nationalities register to learn English the english-way. Their proficiency in english language varies from nil to less than little. Each student has his own way of interpreting the language spoken which leads to hilarious circumstances inside the classroom and the school premises. More information available at Wikipedia and a long list of videos at you tube …

So what’s is so special about this TV Show? .. Its a comedy show.. so what ?..

This show can be enjoyed if you are prepared to watch with a mind-set that “students do not know” English. Don’t ‘Think’ while watching… just listen.. You will know what I mean. In short, If you can maintain a “simple-frame of mind” then, I guarantee that you will not feel wasted after 30 min. Some remarks may seem lewd and obscene.. But remember, the students are learning English. .. as in when the teacher s down with cold, one of the students Ms.Jamila, prepares a hot water bottle to keep him warm. At that instant, the principal walks in and demands an explanation for the lady’s presence. Jamila replies as-a-matter-of-fact …”I warm master-ji’s bed”

At another instance in the same episode :-
Miss Courtney: Can anybody tell me what “B.C.” stands for?
Student : Before Christmas!

The only pre-requisite to enjoy ( and of course understand) this show is to be able to understand the Queen’s English and how literal translations from other-language-sentences will affect the meaning of the sentence thus formed. You need not hold a degree in English literature to enjoy this show.. ( this is the best part…), But you must be able to laugh / giggle without making any audible sound. If you think I am being stupid, then think again ( and ask some one who has seen .. or is seeing this show). Every … (note it.. every) dialogue is important to get the complete picture.

I can go on and on about the characterization and mannerism of each person who has been a part of this show..(from the janitor to the sheik-who-was-about-to-gift-a-rolls royce).. but that will corrupt the first-timer’s mind. Comeback here and tell me what you enjoyed about this show,I am sure it will be equally interesting

This show comes as a welcome break from the array of inappropriate conversations and swear words surrounding us at workplace – traffic-restaurants– colleges – and schools ( Please don’t even think that inappropriate language is not prevalent in schools… you are gravely mistaken….)Well.. Let me not spoil the mood of the post by speaking about it now, will make a post in this regard some time later

I must also mention that, a similar show was air in our local channel SAB Tv called “Zaban Sambhal ke” … ( meaning “Talk with caution”.. in other words “Mind your Language“).. where people from different nationalities come to learn hindi. The part of the teacher was played by Pankaj Kapur of Karamchand fame (.. Shahid kapur’s dad…).. I enjoyed both the shows.. how about you ?? …