Hindi Matras: The Vowel Signs: Class 2 Study Guide
A matra is a sign added to a consonant to change its vowel sound.
When a vowel joins a consonant it takes a short form called a matra. For example, क with the sign ा becomes का, and क with ि becomes कि.
The vowel अ has no sign because every consonant already carries it.
The matras with क
| Vowel | Matra | With क | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| आ | ा | का | kaa |
| इ | ि | कि | ki |
| ई | ी | की | kee |
| उ | ु | कु | ku |
| ऊ | ू | कू | koo |
| ए | े | के | ke |
| ऐ | ै | कै | kai |
| ओ | ो | को | ko |
| औ | ौ | कौ | kau |
Words with matras
Read these: पानी (water), फूल (flower), केला (banana), कैंची (scissors), सोना (gold), नौका (boat), चिड़िया (bird), कुत्ता (dog). Notice that the sign ि is written before the letter but said after it, so कि is read ki.
Practising
Pick a consonant and make nine words by adding each matra. Read a short sentence aloud every day, such as 'मैं पानी पीता हूँ'. Compare your sound for ई and ऊ with a Hindi speaker so the long and short sounds stay clear.
Common mistakes
Mixing up the short and long signs, such as ि and ी, is the most common mistake. Writing the sign on the wrong side is another. Check each word by reading it aloud. Ask a Hindi reader to check your writing.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. पानी. 2. ी. 3. 'kai'.
✨ Key Takeaways
- A matra is a vowel sign that joins a consonant.
- There are nine main matras.
- The sign ि comes before the letter but is said after.
- Reading aloud helps.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Write the word for water.
- What is the matra for the sound 'ee'?
- Read कै.