REASON BEHIND CALLING ANY AS "JOO"

Author : Muneer Ahmad Share

---

The Origin of 'Joo' Among Kashmiri Names

Once upon a time in the beautiful valley of Kashmir, there lived a humble silversmith named Habib. Habib was known throughout his village not just for his exceptional craftsmanship, but also for his kind heart and wisdom. Over time, people started calling him "Habib Joo" as a sign of their respect and affection. This affix, 'Joo,' seemed to bring with it a sense of honor and endearment, something much more than just a name.

But where did this unique suffix 'Joo' come from? Jean-Baptiste Bernier, a French traveler in the 17th century, first observed the frequent use of 'Joo' among Kashmiris. He noted that it was a mark of respect often attached to people's names. For example, Habib Joo, the silversmith, was originally Habib Gadh.Similarly, Sultan Guzarban became known as Sul Joo, the cloth merchant. In the villages, this practice was widespread. Kadir Ganai of Bhawan was called Kadir Joo, and Ahad Dar of Nanil (Anantnag) was always addressed as Ahad Joo. 

The use of 'Joo' became so ingrained that once someone earned this title, they would often stop using their original surname or 'Kram' name altogether. This showed just how deeply the title was respected and how much it became a part of one's identity.

The origin of 'Joo' has been a topic of much debate. Some believe it traces back to the Jewish identity in Kashmir, while others argue different roots. One theory connects it to the term 'Aryaraja,' used by the ancient Kashmiri poet Kalhana in his famous work, Rajatarangini. According to scholar R. S. Pandit, 'Aryaraja'means 'chief of the Aryas,' with 'Arya' differentiating the noble people from the non-Aryans or barbarians. 'Arya' also means gentleman, and in ancient Indian households, wives would address their husbands as 'Arya-Putra,' meaning 'son of the Arya.'

Interestingly, the term 'Arya' evolved through the ages. In the Prakrit language, it became 'Ajja,' and in modern Hindi, it turned into 'Ji,' used as a respectful suffix. The Kashmiri 'Joo' seems to be another variation of this term, carrying the same sense of respect and nobility.

This linguistic journey from 'Arya' to 'Joo' highlights the rich cultural tapestry of Kashmir. It shows how languages and traditions evolve, intertwine, and create unique expressions of respect and affection. In the case of Habib Joo, Sul Joo, Kadir Joo, and Ahad Joo, these titles are not just affixes but stories of respect, love, and community woven into their names. 

So, the next time you hear someone called 'Joo' in Kashmir, remember that it's more than just a name. It's a title earned through respect, a marker of one's standing in the community, and a beautiful reminder of the valley's rich and diverse heritage.

Keep Reading.....