Urdu Seekhiye: Recent Episodes

Urdu Seekhiye

Learn Urdu along with Shireen and the rest of the Urdu Seekhiye community. Check out the website for other free goodies, and video lessons on the Urdu Alphabet! https://urduseekhiye.com. Be sure to follow US on your favorite social media platform!

Want to suggest ideas for the podcast or the Urdu Seekhiye channel? Email US at shireen@urduseekhiye.com. If you know anyone who might benefit from this podcast, consider sharing it! If you are benefiting from it, please leave us a review on iTunes. Thank you!!

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In part 3 of episode 33, I tell you more about rock climbing and not as much about the motorcycling, but still you'll see it's worth listening. It appears my goal here is to get you to try rock climbing. Would LOVE to hear if you end up trying it because of this episode. Essentially, I encourage you to get out of your comfort zone.

Be sure to share any questions you may have on the episode's page: HERE.

Thank you for learning Urdu with US!

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In part two of episode 33, I tell you more about the motorcycle tour in the northern parts of Pakistan. This time though, I use both Urdu and English. I talk about various Pakistani dishes and desserts. I share with you the wisdom that was shared with me by members of our group, and a bit of drama that ensued before leaving for my trip. Be sure to download the PDF for this part so you can follow along, especially if you're still new to Urdu.

Be sure to let me know if you have any questions on the episode's page: HERE.

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In this episode (completely in English) I tell you about my experience in Pakistan motorcycling from Islamabad to Skardu and back. I went with the tour company Lost with Purpose. Feel free to reach out to our tour guides Ihsan and Wasim.

I also highly recommend listening to this Buddhist monk HERE. Enjoy the photos I’ve posted on the website. Let me know if you have any questions on the page for this episode or reach out via any of our socials. Thank you for listening!!

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I wanted to go over Seth Godin's blog once more - it was initially covered in episode #26. The words spark excitement in me for when I am thinking about starting something new. Even though Urdu Seekhiye is now an old project, writing and publishing each new episode really does feel like a new project and the potential of it reaching new audience members (and old ones) excites me. Feel free to help with this endeavor. Be sure to download the PDF for the full episode at www.urduseekhiye.com/E26! nayā sāl mubārak ho!!

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Here.

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In this episode I translate the sentences from one of our Urdu handwriting lessons. Did you know that Arsalan sahab and I have created an Urdu Handwriting course? Check it out HERE. The sentences in this episode are more advanced, but if you are interested in learning how to write Urdu from the beginning check out lesson number 1. Be sure to come back to this page as I will also post the video of me writing out all the sentences by hand. Be sure to subscribe to the YouTube channel so you get notified of when it's published.

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This is the second part of episode 31. Be sure to listen to part 1 before listening to this one.This is a new series of episodes focused on grammar – specifically verb conjugation. For each episode, I’ll select a verb and then share with you how that verb is conjugated in the simple present, past, and future tenses. In this episode we’re going to focus on conjugating the to-be verb honā. Various example sentences are shared in each of the tenses. For this episode, we also created an instagram/YouTube reel so be sure to check that out for additional sample sentences with the adjective (mota - fat). Don't forget to download the PDF for this episode as it's FREE! This episode is available in two parts, both parts are available in most podcast players, but they are also available on the website. www.urduseekhiye.com/e31Be sure to ask US your questions in the discussion section for this episode by visting the website! Happy learning!

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This is a new series of episodes focused on grammar – specifically verb conjugation. For each episode, I’ll select a verb and then share with you how that verb is conjugated in the simple present, past, and future tenses. In this episode we’re going to focus on conjugating the to-be verb honā.  Various example sentences are shared in each of the tenses. For this episode, we also created an instagram/YouTube reel so be sure to check that out for additional sample sentences with the adjective (mota - fat). Don't forget to download the PDF for this episode as it's FREE! This episode is available in two parts, both parts are available in most podcast players, but they are also available on the website. www.urduseekhiye.com/e31Be sure to ask US your questions in the discussion section for this episode by visting the website! Happy learning!

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In this episode, we further practice using possessive adjectives. This handout contains tons of example sentences on how to use comparative adjectives, possessive adjectives, and how to talk about ownership. It also shows you how you can share what your daily activities are. The vocabulary words from this episode include so much food, so old, so small, so big, piggy back, get on a horse (& the roof) and much more.

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Listen to Episode 30 Here.

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In this episode, Ayesha joins Shireen in a dialogue about shopping. Vocabulary covered in this episode includes mahaṅgī (expensive), sastī (cheap), lāl jakiṭ (red jacket), bihtarīn tohfa (best gift), jigrī dost (best friend), and so much more!

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Here.

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In this short episode, Shireen explains how to use the word had (limit) and the possessive adjective apnā/ī/e (one's own). 

Watch this clip to hear the sentence - mazāq kī bhī had hotī hai: https://streamable.com/feuqq7

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Here. If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving US a review on iTunes HERE. It'll greatly help spread the word. Thank you so much for listening and subscribing!

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This is a grammar episode focused on the topic of possessive adjectives. Now you can say things like:

  • What is his/her name? (in kā nām kyā hai?)
  • This book is [all of] theirs. (yih kitāb in [sab] kī hai.)
  • This is their book. (yih kitāb in kī hai)

Download the PDF for tons more example and visit the page for E28 repeatedly as we'll be posting more goodies related to this topic. Quizzes and Notion templates coming soon.

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Listen to Episode 28 Here.

Thank you for learning Urdu with Shireen!
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In this episode Sajjad and I talk about necessities and introduce various items you can eat (apples, tomatoes, salad, bread, etc.). In addition to the great vocabualry words included in the dialgue, we have included tons of other fruits and vegetables in the chart - some that I don't even use in English! Be sure to download the PDF HERE.

If you have been enjoying the podcast, share it with others who might benefit. To help us move up the podcast charts, please consider leaving us a review on Apple Podcasts (link in bio). Thank you for listening! 

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This episode was such a joy to produce, and a long time coming. In this episode Mansoor and I translate Seth Godin's blog post titled Beginning is Underrated. This post inspired me to start the Urdu Seekhiye podcast, so it means a lot. I hope that it inspires you to begin something that you may have been putting off, or restart something that you gave up on.

"Merely begin, with the humility of someone who’s not sure, and the excitement of someone who knows that it’s possible."

Be sure to let US know if you have any questions on the episode's page: Listen to Episode 26 Here.

If you are enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving me a review on iTunes HERE. It'll greatly help spread the word. Thank you so much for listening and subscribing!

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In this episode Nadia and I show you how you can offer help to someone who has invited you to their home. Vocabulary words in this episode include sāf (clean), madad (help), isrār karnā (to insist), and magar (but), to name a few. Check it out and leave your questions on the page for this episode. www.urduseekhiye.com/e24 

Download the PDF for this episode HERE.

Did you know that Shireen and Arslan recently released a Complete Course on Urdu Handwriting? Check it out here: www.bit.ly/UrduHandwriting 

Be sure to follow us on social media: @UrduSeekhiye

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As salām 'alaikum! Thank you for listening to this episode. This episode was released to make you aware of the amazing Urdu Handwriting course that we have developed in partnership with Handwriting Universe. 

The link to register: www.bit.ly/UrduHandwriting

Sorry the discount is no longer valid. It expired on July 02, 2021. However, if you cannot afford the full price, please email me and we can discuss.  I don't want to stop anyone with a true interest in improving their handwriting to miss the opportunity to do so. :)

Let us know if you have any questions: Shireen@urduseekhiye.com! Thank you again!

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In this final episode we come to learn of the sad fate of the fly. Vocabulary words covered in this episode include khaṭkā(suspicion), xūšāmad (flattery), pasījī (to soften), uṛāyā (to enjoy with delight; to be wasteful) and SO much more. The past tense of hona is also discussed and more examples of the past tense are available on the free handout so be sure to download that from the website.  Additionally, we have begun putting exclusive content on our Patreon page and for as little as $1.00/month, you could support Urdu Seekhiye. Be sure to check out our Patreon page to see the additional examples we provide from this episode. 

If you're enjoying the podcast, please consider leaving us a review on iTunes or Facebook! Thank you!

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Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook @UrduSeekhiye. Be sure to leave us a review us if you're enjoying the podcast. The free PDF for this handout coming soon. Check the website in the coming days to download it! Thank you!

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Aamir and I join forces again to bring you part for of this poem by Allama Iqbal - Ek Makra aur Makhi (A Spider and a Fly). Do let us know how you're enjoying the poem and learning new vocabulary words by leaving us a review on iTunes. Feel free to also ask any questions that you may have by visiting our website for this episode: www.urduseekhiye.com/e25. Thank you very much for listening!!

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In this episode further learn about the makra's manipulative ways and how the makhī sees through them. As always, this episode is full of great vocabulary such as to fly, to decorate, to stay, to appear, guests, comfort, tools, things, present/available, and bedding. A few questions are asked in this episode, so be sure to go to our website to post your answers: www.urduseekhiye.com/e25. If you are enjoying our podcast, please leave us a review on iTunes so others can more easily find this podcast. If you know of others who might benefit from our podcast (or YouTube channel) help spread the word! Thank you for listening!

Intro & Outro Music - Mugal-e-Funk (Babar): https://open.spotify.com/album/11Hldw1EsZoRSgUMOjVF9z?si=vx2-3CvFT5-00wi-PF5XMg

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In the second part, we learn a bit more about the makhī. Looks like she won't be falling in the spider's jāl. Aamir (the host of Urdu.Daan) joins Shireen to bring you part 2. Be sure to download the free PDF for this episode from the website: www.urduseekhiye.com/e25. Also be sure to subscribe so you don't miss part 3 of Ek Makṛā  aur Makhī. Have  questions? Let us know in the discussion section of the website or feel free to email Shireen (Shireen@UrduSeekhiye.com).

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This is part 1 of 6 of the poem a Spider and a Fly (ek makṛā aur makhī). It has a good lesson, but more importantly it's full of tons of great vocabulary words. Though a bit difficult, if you return to it again and again, it'll start to make sense and even be fun to listen to. This nazm (poem) is written by Alama Iqbal - a famous Urdu poet. Mahwash from Bachpan ki Kahaniyan, joins me to bring you this poem. Be sure to also check out her podcast. She has also covered this poem, but directed at children so

if you have kids you can share this nazm with them too!!

Here is the YouTube video which I referred to in this episode:

Be sure to download the free handout for this episode.

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In this episode learn to express pain and state where you are feeling pain. The request for this episode came from one of our listeners, so if you have a special request let Shireen know! To download the free handout for this episode (or to leave a comment) go to the page for this episode: www.urduseekhiye.com/e23. And as always - thank you for listening!

The music in the intro and outro is by Jiill - check them out here: https://youtu.be/d7zG3ib9VRc

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In this episode, learn how to figure out whether a noun in Urdu is feminine or masculine. Listen until the end to see if Shireen passes Travis' quiz of some really difficult nouns in Urdu. We realize there are some really difficult words in this episode so be sure to download the free PDF that comes with this episode.

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In this episode Travis and Shireen focus on grammar, specifically the relative pronouns in Urdu. Can you provide example sentences of your own from this lesson? Be sure to share below them with us on our website: www.urduseekhiye.com/jo.

Make sure to download the free handout as it contains various examples mentioned in the episode. Plus you can find out how to say the numbers 52 and 64, which we clearly didn’t know how to say during the episode. Also, stay tuned for a short lesson on how to say all the numbers in Urdu.

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This episode does not fit into our theme of beginner episodes, but with all that's happening in the United States, we had to include this poem on the subject of the Black Lives Matter movement. This poem is by Aslam Gurdaspuri (a living poet). He can be found on Facebook if you want to learn more about him and see the complete poem.

The YouTube video of the news anchor reciting the poem can be found HERE.   (he starts around 2:36)

The music in the intro & outro is by Mughal-e-Funk, the track is called Babar.

A special thank you to Naeema for her translation of this poem and for sharing her insightful interpretations which we hope will spark your interest in Urdu.

We would love to hear your thoughts on this. Please feel free to go to the website www.urduseekhiye.com/e20 or find us on any of our social media pages. Of course you can also email Shireen directly at Shireen@UrduSeekhiye.com.

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In this episode Shireen and Travis show you how to haggle with shop keepers, a practice very common in South Asia. You'll hear key vocabulary such as too expensive, show me, how much, price, to buy, and many more. Be sure to download the handout for this episode from our website: www.urduseekhiye.com/e19.

Have any questions, post them on the discussion section of the website or email Shireen directly: shireen@urduseekhiye.com.

Be sure to also check out the Kingtox episode that goes more deeply into the word "vālā."

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In this episode we learn how to work with object pronouns in Urdu using the extended oblique case. If you're not a fan of grammar (like myself) then you'll find this lesson very helpful as we use several examples to break down the grammar concept. Be sure to download the handout from episode 18's page. www.urduseekhiye.com/e18 otherwise you might find yourself a bit lost. Also be sure to show us some love by rating us on iTunes and commenting in the discussion boards! Thank you for listening!!

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In this episode we partner with Mahwash Rehman from Bachpan ki Kahaniyan, a podcast retelling children's stories in Urdu. It's a great resource for those who already have some exposure to Urdu, but want to improve their vocabulary (like Shireen).

Want to learn more about the women's cricket team in Pakistan? Check out Mahwash's book: Women in Green. If you want to hear Mahwash in her element check out her reciting poetry in Urdu.

~*~

In this episode Mahwash and Shireen talk about the time. The vocabulary in this episode includes time (waqt), quarter past (savā), morning (subh), to get up (uṭhnā), to fill (bharnā), and much more.

Be sure to answer the questions from this episode (in the discussion section on our site). How would you say the following?

  1. I have to get up in half an hour.
  2. It's six forty-five PM.
  3. ...but first, I have to eat breakfast. (download the free handout to learn how to say breakfast)
  4. I eat lunch from 1 PM to 2:30 PM.

Be sure to visit the website to download the handout for E18. https://urduseekhiye.com/e18

To watch the video on how to tell time in Urdu click HERE. Also, remember to fill out the SURVEY. The next 50 people will get a free invitation to our Urdu Seekhiye online community. bahot šukria sun-ne kā (Thank you very much for listening!)

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We are living in different times right now. This episode will better prepare you to ask others how they are doing health-wise and whether they are washing their hands and doing their part by staying home. Vocabulary from this episode includes, health, social distancing, with care, with caution, flu, cough, and fever among many others. 

Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the discussion section of the episode page: https://urduseekhiye.com/e17/ Also visit the page to download the extremely helpful PDF guide. Did we mention it's FREE?

Thank you for learning Urdu with US!

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In this episode I'm joined by a loyal listener, Alessia. Listen to this episode to learn more about why she's learning Urdu. Did I mention she's Italian!? She's a great example of how no language is too difficult to learn - she speaks at least three other languages. In this episode we show you how to ask someone why he/she is so late, and how to apologize when you are late. Remember to visit the website to let us know how you like the episode. www.urduseekhiye.com/e16

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Nayā sāl mubārak ho! In this episode learn how to wish someone a happy new year. In this episode Sara joins me again, and since she's just returned from Pakistan she shares a bit about her trip to Pakistan. Do you want to know more about her trip? Feel free to ask your questions in the discussion section of the site: www.urduseekhiye.com/e15.

Happy New Year! Please help us spread the word about this podcast, so others can benefit too! Shukriya!

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In this episode, Naeema joins us from Pakistan! She and I discuss how you can ask someone what they do for a living. The vocabulary in this episode allows you to ask someone how long they have been doing a certain activity, singing, writing, working, etc.

As always, we highly encourage participation so be sure to visit our website to download the handout for E14 (www.urduseekhiye.com/e14) and to provide responses to the questions in this episode.

Also, be sure to watch the YouTube video on the pronunciation of the Urdu alphabet: https://urduseekhiye.com/urdu-alphabet-pronunciation/

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In this episode Leah, a polyglot, joins us from Germany. Leah, one of our listeners, was kind enough to share her story (listen to the end of E11 to hear it) with the Urdu Seekhiye community. Today, Leah and I share useful phrases that will come in handy when talking over long distances (over Skype or Whatsapp).

In this episode you’ll learn how to say the following in Urdu:

  1. How is everyone doing?
  2. I can’t see you. | You are not visible
  3. Can you say that again, you got cut off? | You got disconnected.
  4. Your voice is choppy. | You are getting cut off.
  5. I don’t want to offend you, but …  |  I understand what you are saying, but ...
  6. We will have to agree to disagree.

I tried to hide it, but I was truly blown away at how well Leah has mastered the Urdu language, and by her reasons for learning it.

Be sure to leave us your comments in the discussion section. If you'd like to be on an episode, let us know! Also, please do take a minute to complete the survey available on our website!

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In this episode, Sara and I talk about how you can ask where something is. You will also learn a little bit about the DC train system (only a little). The vocabulary words from this episode include near, far, stop sign, left, right, tonight, don't know, and much more. Be sure to follow Sara, my guest for this episode. She is a talented artist, and her work can be found on instagram (@whimsicalarts93) and  Facebook (@beyondgalaxiesart). Be sure to answer the three questions on the website: www.urduseekhiye.com/e12. We LOVE hearing from you!

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In this episode, learn about how to discuss the weather and ask others whether they like the heat (or the summer). Some of the vocabulary in this episode include summer, rain, weather, picture and biryani. Be sure to visit the website for the free PDF handouts. www.urduseekhiye.com/e11

Side note, Urdu Seekhiye will be at the DC State Fair in September. If you happen to visit the state fair, be sure to come by and say hi! We'll be looking for future interviewees.

Intro & Outro music by Mugal-e-Funk, the track is Babar.

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STEP 1: Watch the Kingtox Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYjF-BUuz7E.

STEP 2: Enjoy listening to Episode 10 - part 2 :)

STEP 3: Download the handout for this episode on our website - www.urduseekhiye.com/e10

In this episode, Shireen translates the funny (and viral) Kingtox Commercial. Some of the vocabulary words in this episode are: right hand side, spoon, tea, and understand. We also cover how to make future tense statements in Urdu.

As always, let us know how you liked this episode by either starting a discussion on our website or by following us on social media. Shukria!!

www.urduseekhiye.com

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STEP 1: Watch the Kingtox Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYjF-BUuz7E.

STEP 2: Enjoy listening to Episode 10 :)

STEP 3: Download the handout for this on our website: www.urduseekhiye.com/e10

In this episode, Shireen translates the funny (and viral) Kingtox Commercial. Some of the vocabulary words in this episode are: right hand side, spoon, tea, and understand. We also cover how to make future tense statements in Urdu.  

As always, let us know how you liked this episode by either starting a discussion on our website or by following us on social media. Shukria!!

www.urduseekhiye.com

Twitter & Instagram: @UrduSeekhiye

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In this episode Anjum and I show you how to ask someone how they get to work, and how to tell someone that you're unemployed.

These are the questions for this episode:

How would you say the following in Urdu?

  1. How do you make biryani?
  2. I operate a business.
  3. That is an easy task.
  4. This is very fragile. (fragile = nāzuk)
  5. I go by bus, car, train, metro, etc.

Remember to post your answers either on the episode page or record your responses using the voice message tool on our website. https://urduseekhiye.com/e09

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In this episode, learn how to ask someone what type of food they like - more specifically whether they like meat. Humaira and Shireen also talk about what they can and cannot do. Vocabulary words covered in this episode include type, meat, to like, to try, besides, and to cook.

Be sure to download the handout for this episode. Also, check out our brand new website and be sure to begin discussions at the bottom of each episode page. Questions? Email info@urduseekhiye.com

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In this episode you'll learn how to ask someone how many brothers and sisters he/she has. We have some fun and easy questions at the end of the episode for you to answer. We'll post the answers on our social media pages so be sure to check those out.

Download the transcript for this episode HERE.

Be sure to follow us on Social Media for regular updates:

Twitter: @UrduSeekhiye

Instagram: @UrduSeekhiye

YouTube: /UrduSeekhiye

Facebook: /UrduSeekhiye

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In this episode learn how to ask anyone how many brothers and sisters she has. This episode shows you how to have this conversation informally - with the informal you - tum. Be sure to start a conversation on this topic on our website.

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In this episode you'll learn how to ask someone how many brothers and sisters he/she has. We have some fun and easy questions at the end of the episode for you to answer. We'll post the answers on our website. Be sure to also download the PDF handout for this episode from www.urduseekhiye.com/e05

Be sure to follow us on Social Media for regular updates:

  • Twitter: @UrduSeekhiye
  • Instagram: @UrduSeekhiye
  • YouTube: https://YouTube.com/UrduSeekhiye
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UrduSeekhiye

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Learn to ask someone how you say anything in Urdu.

Be sure to download our transcript from the patreon site www.patreon.com/UrduSeekhiye

Got questions? Suggestions? Email us: UrduSeekhiye@gmail.com

Thank you for listening! (šukrīā)

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Learn how to ask why someone is learning something in an informal tone with this episode. You can download the transcript by clicking HERE.

Questions? Email us at UrduSeekhiye@gmail.com Thank you for listening!!

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In this episode, learn how to ask someone why they're learning to do something.

Download the transcript HERE.

For additional lessons visit our YouTube channel! Be sure to follow us on FB, Instagram or Twitter. @UrduSeekhiye

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Learn how to ask your family and friends how they are (in an informal tone) with this episode. Download the FREE transcript by clicking HERE.

Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter! @UrduSeekhiye

Got questions? Suggestions? Email Shireen at UrduSeekhiye@gmail.com

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Be sure to download the transcript HERE. Like us on facebook: www.facebook.com/UrduSeekhiye or Instagram/Twitter @UrduSeekhiye

We love hearing from our listeners, so feel free to drop us a line on the page for this episode. [www.urduseekhiye.com/e02]

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For every episode where we have a dialogue using "āp" we'll have that same dialogue using "tum." This is the tum version of the first episode. Enjoy! Download the transcript HERE for free.

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In this episode, learn how to ask someone their name and where they are from.

Feel free to download the handout directly from HERE. Please do visit our website to ask your question(s) and start discussion(s) on this topic! We love hearing from our listeners!

For more resources on this episode, check out the show notes on our website: www.urduseekhiye.com/e01

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Are you absolutely new to learning Urdu? You're in the right place! This introductory episode will tell you exactly what to expect from the Urdu Seekhiye podcast and YouTube channel. Come join Shireen on her journey to learning Urdu. Be sure to check out the website (www.urduseekhiye.com) where you can get all kinds of free resources for each episode!! Also, please share this podcast with anyone whom you think could benefit from it. And lastly, be sure to say hello! We LOVE hearing why our listeners are learning Urdu. You can say hello in three ways: through the discussion section on our website, our social media pages, or email (shireen@urduseekhiye.com). Thank you for listening!!