Breaking Boundaries - A Cultural Interpretation of Aesthetics

India’s multicultural landscape includes countless languages, dialects, customs, and traditions, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. This diversity became even more precious to me after moving away from my home country. Hindi, my first language, is one of many languages spoken in India, primarily in the northern regions. It is part of a broader linguistic mosaic of over 22 recognized languages and numerous dialects, creating significant regional variations. What fascinates me about Hindi is the difference between its written and spoken forms.

The formal written form is often seen in literature or official contexts, while the spoken form is adaptable, shaped by local influences and social contexts. This flexibility underscores the dynamic nature of Indian culture, where the meanings of words can vary greatly based on the speaker and setting.

I chose to explore the meaning of "aesthetic" in Hindi, initially unaware of its exact equivalent. In formal Hindi, "aesthetic" is translated as सौंदर्य संबंधी (saundarya sambandhi), meaning "related to beauty." This term carries a direct connotation of beauty and is typically used in academic or literary contexts. However, in my regional spoken context, the word अच्छा (acha), meaning "okay," is often used to convey a similar idea.

While acha might seem an unlikely candidate for "aesthetic," it can convey multiple meanings depending on tone, context, and the speaker's emotion. It can express genuine admiration, reflecting an understated beauty tied to emotional depth rather than conventional visual standards. Depending on its intonation, acha may convey anything from simple acknowledgment to unexpected delight. For example, when spoken with a tone of surprise, it can suggest an authentic appreciation that diverges from calculated judgments of beauty.

In Indian culture, aesthetics often extend beyond visual appeal. For instance, a wornout chair in a grandparent's home might be described as acha because it evokes nostalgia and a sense of belonging. This emotional resonance challenges Western notions of aesthetics, emphasizing the experiential and personal over purely visual appeal.

Exploring the concept of "aesthetic" in Hindi helped me appreciate how language profoundly shapes our perception of beauty. The varied tones of acha offer a reinterpretation of aesthetics that is culturally rooted, inclusive, and deeply meaningful—one that sees beauty in simplicity, comfort, and an emotional connection beyond conventional standards.