Learning a new language as an adult is not easy—especially when you’re far away from the environment where it’s spoken every day. As an NRI (Non-Resident Indian), learning Marathi can feel daunting, especially when you haven’t grown up hearing it spoken around you. But the good news? It’s absolutely possible, and incredibly rewarding.
Here are some honest, field-tested tips to help you (or your partner, or your child) learn Marathi with confidence:
- Don’t Start with the Alphabet
Most people assume the best place to begin is with learning the script. But here’s the truth: that’s often the least helpful starting point. Focus on speaking first. Start with simple phrases, expressions, and everyday sentence framing. Once you’re comfortable hearing and speaking the language, the script can come later—and faster. - Speak to Your Child or Partner in Marathi
Even if your vocabulary is limited, make it a point to use simple Marathi sentences with your loved ones. Language thrives through repetition and real-world context. Saying things like “Jeyvan zhal-uh kaa?” (Did you eat?) or “Chalaa, jauya” (Let’s go) adds practical familiarity to the language. - Celebrate the Decision to Learn
Whether it’s your partner or your child learning Marathi, be wildly supportive. Learning a language takes courage and vulnerability. Applaud their progress. Your encouragement will go a long way in helping them stick with it. - No Gatekeeping, Please
Marathi isn’t a secret club. It shouldn’t be. Avoid correcting people in a way that feels condescending or exclusive. Welcome every learner with patience and enthusiasm, no matter how broken their sentences may be. Every word is a win. -
Mistakes Are a Sign of Progress
Don’t laugh at someone’s mistakes. And don’t be hard on yourself either. Getting things wrong is part of the learning process. That one sentence you mispronounced? That’s going to be the one you remember best the next time. - Surround Yourself with the Language
Watch Marathi movies with subtitles. Listen to Marathi music or YouTube channels. Change your phone’s language setting to Marathi for a week. Create a mini immersion environment from wherever you are. - Learn the Way Locals Actually Speak
We often mix English and Marathi naturally in daily life. Sentences like “Me office la nighato” (I go to office) are perfectly normal and widely used. Learn this way first—it helps you feel more fluent, more quickly. - Join a Class That Gets This
Not every Marathi class is designed for NRIs. At Speak Marathi, for instance, we focus on real-life usage, small groups, and positive reinforcement. No rote memorization. No fear of judgment. Just learning that feels natural and effective. - Keep It Fun and Consistent
Ten minutes a day is better than two hours once a week. Turn learning into a game. Use flashcards, apps, or even Marathi tongue-twisters. Consistency beats intensity every time. -
Remember Why You Started
Maybe you want to talk to your grandparents, or raise a bilingual child, or feel closer to your partner’s culture. On hard days, remind yourself of that deeper reason. It will keep you going.
Language is more than grammar. It’s about belonging. It’s about connection. So, if you’re learning Marathi from abroad, take a deep breath, start speaking, and know this: you belong here.