During a recent pair program, a conversation stayed with me and led me into a moment of reflection. We spoke about how, in the parts of South Asia that we come from, family ties are described with remarkable detail.
In our traditions, there isn’t just a single word for “uncle” or “aunt.” Instead, we have distinct names for each relationship—whether a relative is on the mother’s or father’s side, and whether they are older or younger. A mother’s sister has her own title, a father’s sister another. Even brothers of our parents are named differently, and their roles in family life are not interchangeable.
These names are more than linguistic distinctions. They carry centuries of meaning, reflecting the roles each person plays in festivals, customs, and family responsibilities. A particular relative may have a ceremonial duty in weddings or a traditional place in celebrations. In this way, language becomes a vessel for tradition, honour, and belonging.
That conversation reminded me how deeply our identities are tied to the words we use for family. They are not just labels, but a recognition of the bonds and responsibilities that make up the fabric of community.
