One classroom interaction that has spread on the web in the UK was not about conflict, but about the silent confidence and respect shown by the young girl in class. In the video, which has since gone viral, the girl beautifully corrects her teacher on the pronunciation of the word ‘Sanatan Dharma’. Such an interaction, lasting mere seconds, has progressively gotten people’s attention on the web. This comes at a time when, on matters of identity, the world seems to be polarised, and this experience has been just what the doctor has ordered to help people talk about understanding.
UK student politely corrects Sanatan Dharma pronunciation in the classroom
The video shows an interaction in a class where the teacher discusses “Sanatan Dharma” but gets the pronunciation incorrect. Effortlessly and seamlessly, without flinching and without interrupting the teacher, the very next thing that happens is that the student raises her hand and very politely lets the teacher know the right way to say “that word.” The teacher listens intently and moves on. The most interesting thing about this interaction is how very normal it is. This instance struck a chord with several viewers because Sanatan Dharma is more than just the words. It is a phrase that is full of ancient wisdom related to Indian philosophy. When it comes to pronunciation, although it may not be intentional, it can still be very derogatory to those who feel that they can identify with it. How the student reacted to it proved that instances like these can also be used to learn. Everyone requires not an attack but an opportunity to learn.
Social media reacts to the student’s respectful correction and evolving classroom culture
Within minutes of the clip going online, the social media reactions ran thick and fast- congratulatory yet laced with humour. Admirers praised the confidence and clarity of the student with comments like “Good job done cutie” and “I’m so proud of you and your family”. Others noted her delivery for its mock seriousness: “Her mimic is good “, “She mimics so well that I forgot before mimic she speak Hindi ,” joked one user, while another compared her expressions to a popular Bollywood character: “Kajol from Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham.“Complementing this humour, many comments pointed to cultural awareness and correctness. One viewer simply explained, “It’s Sanatan Dharm,” corroborating exactly what the student had said in class. Emojis and short comments added to the feeling of general approval. Together, these responses showed how the moment struck a balance between being warm, respectful, and relatable.
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