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धरना

A2 verb #3,000 más común 10 min de lectura

धरना

To hold or place.

dharna Top 3,000

At the A1 level, you should focus on the simplest physical meaning of धरना (dharnā): 'to put' or 'to place'. Think of it as a word you use when you want to tell someone to put something down on a table or the floor. It is very similar to 'put' in English. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the protest meaning or the poetic uses. Just remember the imperative form: 'धरो' (dharo) for friends and 'धरिये' (dhariye) for being polite. For example, if you have a heavy bag, you can say 'बैग यहाँ धरो' (Bag yahan dharo) - 'Put the bag here'. It is a useful verb to know for basic physical interactions, though you will find that 'rakhna' is used more often in big cities. Learning 'dharna' at A1 helps you understand more traditional or regional Hindi speakers. You should also learn that it is a transitive verb, meaning it usually acts on an object like a book, a bag, or a glass. Don't confuse it with 'darna' (to be afraid), which sounds similar but has a different 'd' sound. Practice saying 'dharna' with a soft breathy 'dh' to make sure you are understood correctly. This word is a building block for many more complex phrases you will learn later.

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At the A2 level, you can start using धरना (dharnā) in more varied sentences and understand its common past tense forms. You should be comfortable with the 'ne' construction, such as 'मैंने किताब मेज़ पर धरी' (I placed the book on the table). At this stage, you should also be introduced to its most famous noun usage: the 'Dharna' or sit-in protest. You might see this on the news or in simple stories. Understanding that 'dharna dena' means 'to protest' is a key cultural milestone for an A2 learner in India. You will also start to see 'dharna' in compound verbs like 'धर देना' (dhar dena), which means to put something down definitely or completely. You should be able to distinguish between 'dharna' (to place) and 'pakadna' (to catch/hold). A2 learners should also recognize the word in the context of 'stepping'—'पाँव धरना' (paon dharna), which means to step into a place. For example, 'उसने घर में पाँव धरा' (He stepped into the house). This adds a bit of flavor to your descriptions. You are moving beyond simple 'put/keep' and starting to use words that have more specific physical actions and cultural meanings attached to them. This is the level where you begin to sound less like a textbook and more like a real Hindi speaker.

At the B1 level, you should explore the idiomatic and abstract uses of धरना (dharnā). You will encounter phrases like 'धीरज धरना' (to hold patience) or 'ध्यान धरना' (to meditate/focus). These are not about physical objects but about 'placing' your mind or your emotions in a certain state. This is also the level where you should understand the police/crime context of the word. In news reports, 'धरना' can mean to catch or apprehend a criminal. For example, 'पुलिस ने चोर को धर लिया' (The police caught the thief). You should also learn the common idiom 'धरा का धरा रह जाना' (to remain where it was), used when someone's plans fail or when they pass away and leave their wealth behind. This shows a deeper understanding of Hindi's philosophical outlook on material possessions. Your grammar should be solid enough to use 'dharna' in complex tenses, like the future presumptive ('उसने शायद वहाँ सामान धरा होगा' - He might have placed the luggage there). You are now starting to appreciate the difference between 'rakhna' (casual keeping) and 'dharna' (deliberate placing or seizing). This distinction is what makes your Hindi sound more nuanced and sophisticated.

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At the B2 level, you should be able to analyze the use of धरना (dharnā) in literature, political discourse, and different registers of Hindi. You will notice that 'dharna' is a key term in the history of Indian non-violent resistance. You should be able to discuss the 'dharna' as a political tool and use the word fluently in that context. Furthermore, you will encounter the verb in its more archaic or poetic forms in Braj or Awadhi literature, where it is often used for deities 'holding' divine attributes. For instance, 'शंख-चक्र-गदा-पद्म धरने वाले' (The one who holds the conch, discus, mace, and lotus). You should also be able to use 'dharna' in the sense of 'assuming a form'—'रूप धरना' (roop dharna). This is common in mythology and folklore when a character disguises themselves. Your understanding of the word should now include its relationship with the Sanskrit root 'dhṛ' and how it connects to the concept of 'Dharma' (that which supports/holds the universe). You can now use the word to add a specific 'traditional' or 'weighty' tone to your writing, choosing it over 'rakhna' when you want to emphasize the importance or the physical gravity of the action. You are becoming a master of Hindi's stylistic variations.

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At the C1 level, your grasp of धरना (dharnā) should include its most obscure and highly formal applications. You should be able to read classical poetry (like Tulsidas or Kabir) and recognize the verb in various grammatical permutations that differ from modern standard Hindi. In these contexts, 'dharna' often signifies the very act of existence or the sustaining of the universe. You should also be familiar with the legal and administrative nuances of the word when it appears in historical documents or specific regional laws. Your ability to use 'dharna' in creative writing should be advanced, allowing you to use it metaphorically to describe the 'placing' of ideas, the 'holding' of ancient traditions, or the 'seizing' of opportunities with a specific linguistic flair. You should be able to explain to others the subtle difference between 'dhāran karna' (formal/Sanskrit) and 'dharna' (evolved/Hindi) and when to use each to achieve a particular rhetorical effect. At this level, you are not just using the word; you are playing with its history and its social connotations. You can engage in deep discussions about the 'Dharna' as a social contract and its evolution from a debt-collection method to a modern political protest.

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At the C2 level, you possess a near-native or scholarly understanding of धरना (dharnā). You can identify its use in various Hindi dialects (like Maithili, Haryanvi, or Marwari) and understand how the meaning shifts slightly in those regions. You are capable of translating complex English concepts like 'to uphold', 'to sustain', or 'to deposit' into the most appropriate Hindi equivalent, knowing exactly when 'dharna' is the superior choice over 'rakhna' or 'sthapit karna'. You can appreciate the word's role in the 'Dhrupad' style of singing, where 'dharna' refers to the steady holding of a note. Your linguistic intuition allows you to use the word in puns, double entendres, and high-level academic discourse. You can write a thesis on the semantic evolution of 'dhṛ' to 'dharna' and its socio-political impact on the Indian subcontinent. For you, the word is a multifaceted tool that carries the weight of thousands of years of Indian philosophy, law, and daily life. You use it with total precision, whether you are describing a simple act of putting a glass on a table or the cosmic act of a deity sustaining the world. Your command over the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker who is well-versed in both classical and contemporary Hindi.

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धरना en 30 segundos

Dharna is a versatile Hindi verb meaning to place, hold, or set down objects with intention.
It is famously used to describe 'dharna dena', the act of staging a sit-in protest.
Grammatically, it is transitive and requires the 'ne' particle in the past tense.
While 'rakhna' is more common for 'keeping', 'dharna' implies a more specific act of 'depositing' or 'seizing'.

The Hindi verb धरना (dharnā) is a foundational term that primarily translates to "to hold," "to place," or "to put." While it shares some semantic territory with the more common verb रखना (rakhnā), it carries a distinct weight and traditional nuance that distinguishes it in specific contexts. In its most literal sense, it describes the physical act of setting an object down on a surface or grasping something firmly. However, its usage extends far beyond simple physical movement into the realms of social protest, religious offerings, and idiomatic expressions that define modern Hindi discourse.

Literal Placement: In everyday language, especially in rural or traditional settings, you might hear someone say 'समान नीचे धरो' (samān nīche dharo), which means 'put the luggage down.' It implies a deliberate action of placing.

उसने अपनी पगड़ी मेज़ पर धरी। (He placed his turban on the table.)

One of the most significant modern applications of the word is in the context of political and social activism. The phrase धरना देना (dharnā denā) refers to staging a sit-in or a protest. This comes from the concept of 'holding' a position or 'placing' oneself in a spot and refusing to move until demands are met. This cultural phenomenon is so deeply rooted in Indian society that the word 'dharna' has even been borrowed into Indian English to describe these specific types of non-violent protests. When you hear the word in news reports, it almost always refers to this collective act of sitting in defiance.

Metaphorical Holding: The verb is also used for abstract concepts like 'holding a form' (रूप धरना) or 'holding patience' (धीरज धरना). In these cases, it suggests adopting a state of being or maintaining a specific internal quality.

मुसीबत में धीरज धरना चाहिए। (One should hold patience in times of trouble.)

Historically, the word is derived from the Sanskrit root 'dhṛ', which means to support, bear, or maintain. This is the same root that gives us the word 'Dharma'. Therefore, 'dharna' carries an ancient echo of maintaining the cosmic or moral order. When you 'dharo' something, you are not just dropping it; you are supporting its new position. In poetic Hindi and Braj Bhasha, 'dharna' is used frequently to describe deities holding weapons or musical instruments, such as Lord Krishna holding the flute (मुरली धर).

चोर को पुलिस ने बीच सड़क पर धर दबोचा। (The police caught and pinned the thief in the middle of the road.)

Religious Context: When making offerings in a temple, the act of placing flowers or sweets before an idol is often referred to as 'अर्पण करना' (arpan karna), but in folk traditions, 'धरना' is used to describe the humble act of placing one's head at the feet of a deity or elder.

उसने भगवान के चरणों में अपना सिर धरा। (He placed his head at the feet of God.)

Using धरना (dharnā) correctly requires an understanding of its transitive nature and its specific collocations. As a verb, it agrees with the object in the perfective tense (using the 'ne' construction) and with the subject in other tenses. Because it is often perceived as slightly more formal or rustic than 'rakhna', its placement in a sentence can change the tone of the conversation from casual to deliberate.

Imperative Usage: When giving commands, use 'धरो' (dharo) for informal or 'धरिये' (dhariye) for formal requests. This is common when asking someone to put something down carefully.

कृपया यह संदूक यहाँ धर दीजिए। (Please put this chest down here.)

In the past tense, since 'dharna' is transitive, you must use the 'ne' postposition with the subject. For example, 'I placed the book' becomes 'मैंने किताब धरी'. Notice that 'dhari' agrees with 'kitab' (feminine). This grammatical nuance is essential for sounding natural. While 'rakhna' is almost always a safe substitute, 'dharna' adds a layer of 'setting it firmly' or 'depositing' it.

The 'Protest' Construction: To say 'to protest', we use 'धरना' as a noun followed by the verb 'देना'. Example: 'किसान दिल्ली में धरना दे रहे हैं' (Farmers are protesting/holding a sit-in in Delhi).

मज़दूरों ने कंपनी के बाहर धरना दिया। (The workers staged a sit-in outside the company.)

When using 'dharna' to mean 'to hold' (like an instrument or a weapon), it often appears in descriptive literature. For instance, 'हाथ में धनुष धरना' (to hold a bow in hand). This usage is rare in spoken Hindi but very common in mythological stories and classical music compositions (Dhrupad/Khayal). It suggests a ceremonial or purposeful holding rather than just carrying.

उसने पहली बार शहर में पाँव धरा। (He set foot in the city for the first time.)

Negative Sentences: In negative sentences, 'dharna' often implies a refusal to even touch or acknowledge something. 'मैंने उसे छुआ तक नहीं, धरना तो दूर की बात है' (I didn't even touch it, let alone hold/place it).

यहाँ पैर मत धरना। (Do not step here.)

Understanding the geographical and social landscape where धरना (dharnā) is used will help you grasp its true essence. In modern urban environments like Delhi or Mumbai, you will most frequently hear it on news channels and in political discussions. The 'dharna' is a staple of Indian democracy. When a political leader sits on a carpet in public to protest a policy, the anchor will scream, 'वह धरने पर बैठ गए हैं!' (He has sat down on a dharna!). This usage is ubiquitous and defines the word for millions of city dwellers.

Rural and Regional Dialects: In the Hindi heartland (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh), 'dharna' is still used in its literal sense of placing objects. A farmer might tell his helper to 'बोरी नीचे धरो' (Put the sack down). In these regions, it sounds grounded and authentic, whereas in a high-end corporate office in Gurgaon, 'rakhna' would be preferred.

गाँव में लोग कहते हैं, 'घी का डिब्बा यहाँ धरो'। (In the village, people say, 'Place the ghee container here'.)

In the world of Indian literature and Bollywood lyrics, 'dharna' takes on a more romantic or dramatic flair. You will find it in old songs or ghazals where the poet talks about 'कदम धरना' (placing steps/walking) or 'ध्यान धरना' (meditating/placing focus). It evokes a sense of tradition. For example, in a classical dance context (Kathak), the teacher might instruct the student on how to 'dharna' their feet on the floor to produce the right sound from the bells (ghungroo).

News and Media: Headline: 'विपक्ष का संसद के बाहर भारी धरना' (The opposition's massive protest outside the Parliament). Here, 'dharna' functions as a noun, but the underlying verbal action of 'placing oneself' is what gives it meaning.

कल से अनिश्चितकालीन धरना शुरू होगा। (Indefinite protest will start from tomorrow.)

Furthermore, in criminal law or police reporting, 'धरना' is used in the sense of 'apprehending'. When a criminal is caught red-handed, the report might say 'रंगे हाथों धरा गया' (caught red-handed/pinned down). This suggests a physical grasping or seizing that is very different from the peaceful protest meaning. It is a harsh, sudden action of 'holding' someone so they cannot escape.

उसका सारा पैसा यहीं धरा रह गया। (All his money remained right here [unused/left behind].)

For English speakers learning Hindi, the most common mistake is overusing धरना (dharnā) as a direct synonym for 'to put' in all contexts. While it is technically correct, it can sound archaic or overly dramatic in casual conversation. The safer, more modern choice for 'to put' or 'to keep' is रखना (rakhnā). Using 'dharna' to ask someone to put a phone on a charger might sound like you are speaking from a 19th-century novel.

Confusion with 'Rakhna': Mistake: 'किताब अलमारी में धरो' (Put the book in the cupboard). Correct: 'किताब अलमारी में रखो'. While 'dharo' isn't wrong, 'rakho' is much more natural for storage.

गलत: अपना बैग यहाँ धरो। (Wrong/Unnatural: Place your bag here.)

Another error is confusing the verb 'dharna' with the noun 'dharna' (protest). Learners often forget that when talking about a protest, you need an auxiliary verb like 'dena' (to give) or 'baithna' (to sit). Simply saying 'वह धरना है' to mean 'He is protesting' is incorrect; it should be 'वह धरने पर बैठा है' (He is sitting on a dharna).

Tense and Agreement: In the past tense, learners often forget the 'ne' rule. 'उसने हाथ धरा' (He placed his hand) is correct. Saying 'वह हाथ धरा' is a major grammatical error because the verb is transitive.

सही: उसने ज़मीन पर पैर धरा। (Correct: He set foot on the ground.)

A subtle mistake involves the use of 'dharna' in the sense of 'wearing' something. In some dialects, 'dharna' can mean to put on clothes or jewelry (e.g., गहने धरना). However, in Standard Hindi, this is considered very old-fashioned. If you use it in a modern city, people might think you are quoting a folk play. Stick to 'pehnna' (पहनना) for wearing clothes unless you are intentionally trying to sound like a character from a historical drama.

सावधान: 'हाथ पकड़ना' (Hold hand) vs 'हाथ धरना' (To place hand/Arrest).

To truly master धरना (dharnā), one must understand its relationship with other Hindi verbs that describe placing, holding, or keeping. Each of these words has a specific 'flavor' and context. While they might all translate to 'put' or 'hold' in English, their usage in Hindi is governed by subtle rules of intention, duration, and formality.

धरना (Dharna) vs. रखना (Rakhna): 'Rakhna' is the general-purpose word for putting or keeping. 'Dharna' is more specific to the act of 'setting down' or 'depositing'. You 'rakhna' money in a bank account (long term), but you 'dharo' a heavy bag on the floor (immediate action).

Another close relative is पकड़ना (pakadnā), which means 'to catch' or 'to hold' in the sense of gripping. While 'dharna' can mean to catch (in a police context), 'pakadna' is much more common for catching a ball, holding a railing, or grasping a hand. 'Dharna' implies more weight and finality—once you 'dharo' something, it usually stays there. 'Pakadna' is often temporary.

तुलना: गेंद पकड़ो (Catch the ball) vs बोझ धरो (Set the load down).

स्थापित करना (Sthapit Karna): This is the formal/Sanskritized version of 'to place' or 'to establish'. While 'dharna' is used for physical objects, 'sthapit karna' is used for statues, records, or organizations. It sounds very official.

In poetic or highly formal Hindi, you might encounter धारण करना (dhāran karnā). This is the direct descendant of the Sanskrit 'dhāranam'. It is used for abstract things like 'wearing a disguise' (वेश धारण करना) or 'holding an opinion'. 'Dharna' is the colloquial, evolved form of this high-register verb. Understanding 'dhāran karna' helps you see the 'noble' roots of the everyday word 'dharna'.

अर्पण करना (Arpan Karna): If you are 'placing' something as a gift or sacrifice, 'arpan karna' is the word. 'Dharna' is the physical act, but 'arpan' is the spiritual intent behind the placement.

फूल चरणों में धरे (Placed flowers at feet) vs जीवन अर्पण किया (Dedicated/offered life).

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"उन्होंने अपनी मांगों के समर्थन में धरना दिया।"

Neutral

"किताब मेज़ पर धरो।"

Informal

"पुलिस ने उसे बीच बाज़ार धर लिया।"

Child friendly

"खिलौने ज़मीन पर धरो।"

Jerga

"ज़्यादा मत उड़ो, वरना कोई धर लेगा।"

Dato curioso

The word 'Dharma' comes from the same root. Thus, 'dharna' at its deepest level means to uphold the natural order. The modern meaning of 'protest' comes from the idea of 'holding' one's ground against a creditor or a ruler.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ˈdʱəɾ.nɑː/

US /ˈdʱər.nɑ/

The primary stress is on the first syllable 'Dhar'.

Rima con

करना (karna) भरना (bharna) मरना (marna) चरना (charna) तरना (tarna) डरना (darna) झरना (jharna) वरना (varna)

Errores comunes

Pronouncing it as 'darna' (डरना), which means 'to fear'. The 'dh' must be aspirated.
Using a retroflex 'D' instead of a dental 'dh'.
Shortening the final vowel 'a'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 2/5

Easy to read, but meanings can vary widely based on context.

Escritura 3/5

Requires knowledge of the 'ne' rule in past tense.

Expresión oral 3/5

Aspiration in 'dh' is crucial to avoid confusion with 'darna'.

Escucha 2/5

Common in news and traditional speech.

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

रखना (rakhna) बैठना (baithna) देना (dena) हाथ (haath) ज़मीन (zamin)

Aprende después

धारण करना (dharan karna) स्थापित (sthapit) आंदोलन (andolan) सत्याग्रह (satyagraha) धीरज (dheeraj)

Avanzado

संधारण (sandharan) अधोसंरचना (adhosanrachna) युगांतरकारी (yugantarkari) प्रतिबद्धता (pratibaddhata)

Gramática que debes saber

Transitive Verb Agreement

In the past tense, 'dharna' agrees with the object: 'उसने लाठी (fem) धरी'.

Compound Verbs with 'Dena'

'Dhar dena' emphasizes the finality of placing something: 'उसने काम धर दिया'.

Imperative Mood

Use 'dharo' (informal) or 'dhariye' (formal) for commands.

Noun usage vs Verb usage

'Dharna' as a noun takes postpositions like 'par' (on).

Causative Forms

'Dharana' (to make someone place) and 'Dharvana' (to have it placed).

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Ejemplos por nivel

किताब मेज़ पर धरो।

Put the book on the table.

Imperative form 'dharo' for informal commands.

यह बैग यहाँ धरिये।

Please place this bag here.

Formal imperative 'dhariye'.

मैंने गिलास नीचे धरा।

Past tense with 'ne'. 'Dhara' agrees with 'gilas' (masculine).

सामान कहाँ धरूँ?

Where should I put the luggage?

First-person subjunctive 'dharoon'.

वह अपना सिर नीचे धरता है।

He puts his head down.

Present habitual 'dharta hai'.

पेन यहाँ मत धरो।

Don't put the pen here.

Negative imperative 'mat dharo'.

माँ ने थाली धरी।

Mother placed the plate.

Past tense 'dhari' agrees with 'thaali' (feminine).

चलो, बोझ नीचे धरो।

Come on, put the load down.

Informal suggestion.

लोग सड़क पर धरना दे रहे हैं।

People are protesting on the road.

Use of 'dharna' as a noun in 'dharna dena'.

उसने पहली बार मंदिर में पाँव धरा।

He set foot in the temple for the first time.

Idiomatic phrase 'paon dharna'.

कृपया अपना हाथ मेरे सिर पर धरिये।

Please place your hand on my head (for blessing).

Formal request for a physical gesture.

पुलिस ने चोर को धर लिया।

The police caught the thief.

Compound verb 'dhar lena' meaning to catch/nab.

उसने चुपचाप चिट्ठी वहाँ धर दी।

He quietly placed the letter there.

Compound verb 'dhar di' for completed action.

क्या आपने मेरा चश्मा कहीं धरा है?

Have you placed my glasses somewhere?

Present perfect tense.

बच्चे ने ज़मीन पर कदम धरा।

The child took a step on the ground.

Literary way of saying 'stepped'.

वह धरने पर बैठा है।

He is sitting on a protest.

Noun 'dharna' with postposition 'par'.

विपक्ष ने सरकार के खिलाफ धरना प्रदर्शन किया।

The opposition held a protest demonstration against the government.

Formal political context.

मुसीबत के समय धीरज धरना बहुत ज़रूरी है।

It is very important to hold patience during hard times.

Abstract usage with 'dheeraj' (patience).

उसने नया वेश धरा और सबको हैरान कर दिया।

He assumed a new disguise and surprised everyone.

Idiom 'vesh dharna' (to disguise).

उसका सारा धन धरा का धरा रह गया।

All his wealth remained exactly where it was (useless).

Common idiom for futility.

योगी जंगल में ध्यान धर रहे थे।

The yogi was meditating in the forest.

Religious/spiritual phrase 'dhyan dharna'.

उसने अपनी बात पर ज़ोर धरते हुए कहा...

Placing emphasis on his point, he said...

Metaphorical placement of emphasis.

जैसे ही उसने घर में पाँव धरा, बिजली चली गई।

As soon as he set foot in the house, the power went out.

Temporal clause with 'jaise hi'.

पुलिस ने उसे रंगे हाथों धर दबोचा।

The police caught him red-handed.

Intensive compound 'dhar dabocha'.

कृष्ण ने अपने हाथों में मुरली धरी है।

Krishna is holding a flute in his hands.

Literary/Devotional usage.

उसने सत्य का मार्ग धरने का संकल्प लिया।

He resolved to take (hold) the path of truth.

Abstract resolve.

यह योजना तो धरी की धरी रह गई।

This plan remained completely unexecuted.

Variation of the idiom for plans.

कवि ने प्रकृति का सुंदर रूप धरा है।

The poet has captured (held) the beautiful form of nature.

Artistic/Literary metaphor.

उसने अपनी माँ के चरणों में अपना मस्तक धरा।

He placed his head at his mother's feet.

Traditional gesture of respect.

बिना सोचे-समझे कदम धरना खतरनाक हो सकता है।

Taking a step without thinking can be dangerous.

Gerundial use as a subject.

उन्होंने अनिश्चितकालीन धरने की घोषणा की।

They announced an indefinite sit-in.

Formal political terminology.

उसने क्रोध में अपना हाथ मेज़ पर दे धरा।

He slammed his hand on the table in anger.

Forceful usage 'de dhara'.

भक्त ने भगवान का स्वरूप अपने हृदय में धर लिया।

The devotee enshrined the form of God in his heart.

Spiritual/Internalized usage.

प्राचीन काल में राजा न्याय के लिए धरने पर बैठते थे।

In ancient times, kings used to sit on 'dharna' for justice (rare historical context).

Historical nuance.

उसकी विद्वता उसके शब्दों में साक्षात् रूप धरकर आई।

His scholarship manifested itself (took form) in his words.

Highly metaphorical/High register.

मृत्यु के पश्चात सब कुछ यहीं धरा रह जाता है।

After death, everything remains right here.

Philosophical observation.

उसने अपने कर्तव्यों का बोझ सहर्ष धरा।

He gladly took up (held) the burden of his duties.

Poetic expression of responsibility.

सेना ने सीमा पर मोर्चा धर लिया है।

The army has taken up (held) positions on the border.

Military/Strategic usage.

उसने मौन धरने का व्रत लिया।

He took a vow to maintain (hold) silence.

Spiritual vow.

शास्त्रों में धर्म को धारण करने योग्य बताया गया है।

In scriptures, Dharma is described as something to be upheld (held).

Etymological connection to 'dharan'.

उनकी रचनाओं में ग्रामीण जीवन का यथार्थ रूप धरता है।

In his works, rural life takes on a realistic form.

Literary analysis.

यह आंदोलन अब एक व्यापक क्रांति का रूप धर चुका है।

This movement has now assumed the form of a widespread revolution.

Political evolution.

दर्शनशास्त्र में 'धरना' को अस्तित्व का आधार माना गया है।

In philosophy, 'dharna' (supporting) is considered the basis of existence.

Metaphysical register.

उसने अपनी प्रतिभा को उचित दिशा में धरने का प्रयास किया।

He attempted to channel (place) his talent in the right direction.

Abstract channeling.

राजनीतिक पटल पर यह घटना एक नया मोड़ धर सकती है।

On the political stage, this event could take (hold) a new turn.

Sophisticated political forecasting.

उसने अपनी व्यथा को गीतों का रूप धरकर व्यक्त किया।

He expressed his agony by giving it the form of songs.

Creative transformation.

परंपराओं को मात्र ढोना नहीं, उन्हें हृदय में धरना चाहिए।

Traditions should not just be carried, they should be held in the heart.

Philosophical distinction.

समय के चक्र ने आज एक भयानक रूप धर लिया है।

The wheel of time has assumed a terrifying form today.

Personification of time.

Colocaciones comunes

धरना देना

पाँव धरना

धीरज धरना

ध्यान धरना

रूप धरना

नीचे धरना

कदम धरना

हाथ धरना

मस्तक धरना

वेश धरना

Frases Comunes

धरना प्रदर्शन

अनिश्चितकालीन धरना

धर दबोचना

सब कुछ धरा रह गया

पाँव धरने की जगह नहीं

धीरज धरिये

रूप धर कर आना

कंधे पर हाथ धरना

ज़मीन पर पैर धरना

धरने पर बैठना

Se confunde a menudo con

धरना vs डरना (darnā)

Means 'to be afraid'. It has a retroflex 'd' and no aspiration.

धरना vs झरना (jharnā)

Means 'waterfall' or 'to flow/leak'. Starts with 'jh'.

धरना vs भरना (bharnā)

Means 'to fill'. Starts with 'bh'.

Modismos y expresiones

"धरा का धरा रह जाना"

To remain unused or useless despite great effort or wealth.

उसकी सारी संपत्ति धरी की धरी रह गई।

General

"पाँव न धरना"

To refuse to enter or visit a place.

मैं उस घर में पाँव नहीं धरूँगा।

Informal

"रूप धरना"

To take a specific appearance, often for deception.

उसने बहुरूपिये का रूप धरा।

Literary

"धर दबोचना"

To pounce upon and catch someone.

बिल्ली ने चूहे को धर दबोचा।

Informal

"धीरज धरना"

To maintain composure and patience.

कठिन समय में धीरज धरना ही वीरता है।

Formal

"कदम-कदम पर पैर धरना"

To walk very carefully and cautiously.

अँधेरे में वह कदम-कदम पर पैर धर रहा था।

Descriptive

"ध्यान धरना"

To concentrate or meditate deeply.

सुबह उठकर ईश्वर का ध्यान धरो।

Religious

"सिर पर हाथ धरना"

To bless or protect someone.

गुरु ने शिष्य के सिर पर हाथ धरा।

Spiritual

"खूँटे पर धरना"

To put something aside or ignore it (literally: to hang on a peg).

उसने अपनी पढ़ाई खूँटे पर धर दी।

Colloquial

"पाँव धरने की जगह न होना"

To be extremely crowded.

बस में पाँव धरने की जगह नहीं थी।

Common

Fácil de confundir

धरना vs रखना (rakhna)

Both mean 'to put'.

Rakhna is generic and modern; Dharna is specific, traditional, or used for protests.

किताब रखो (Keep the book) vs बोझ धरो (Set the load down).

धरना vs पकड़ना (pakadna)

Both can mean 'to hold'.

Pakadna is to grip or catch; Dharna is to place or apprehend (police context).

हाथ पकड़ो (Hold hand) vs चोर को धरो (Catch/Nab the thief).

धरना vs धारण करना (dharan karna)

Related root.

Dharan karna is very formal/Sanskritized; Dharna is the common Hindi version.

मुकुट धारण करना (To wear a crown) vs टोपी धरना (To place a hat).

धरना vs डालना (daalna)

Both mean 'to put'.

Daalna often means 'to pour' or 'to throw in'; Dharna is 'to set on a surface'.

चीनी डालो (Add/Pour sugar) vs डिब्बा धरो (Place the box).

धरना vs चढ़ना (chadhna)

Sounds slightly similar.

Chadhna means 'to climb'; Dharna means 'to place'.

पहाड़ पर चढ़ना (Climbing a mountain) vs पैर धरना (Stepping).

Patrones de oraciones

[Object] [Location] धरो।

पेन मेज़ पर धरो।

[Subject] ने [Object] [Location] धरा।

उसने बैग नीचे धरा।

[Subject] [Abstract Noun] धर रहे हैं।

वे धीरज धर रहे हैं।

[Subject] [Noun] का रूप धरकर आया।

वह साधु का रूप धरकर आया।

[Subject] धरने पर बैठ गए हैं।

किसान धरने पर बैठ गए हैं।

[Subject] को पुलिस ने धर लिया।

चोर को पुलिस ने धर लिया।

[Object] धरा का धरा रह गया।

उसका सपना धरा का धरा रह गया।

यहाँ पाँव मत धरना।

गीली ज़मीन पर पाँव मत धरना।

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

Verbos

Adjetivos

Relacionado

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Cómo usarlo

frequency

Common in news and rural speech; medium in urban daily talk.

Errores comunes

Using 'dharna' for 'to fear'. → डरना (darnā)
This is a pronunciation error. 'Dharna' (aspirated) is to place; 'Darna' (non-aspirated) is to fear.
Saying 'Main dharna hoon' for 'I am protesting'. → मैं धरने पर बैठा हूँ।
'Dharna' is the noun (the protest). You must say you are 'sitting on' it or 'giving' it.
Using 'dharna' for keeping money in a bank. → पैसे रखना (paise rakhna)
'Dharna' implies a physical setting down. For abstract 'keeping' or 'maintaining' an account, 'rakhna' is used.
Forgetting 'ne' in the past tense. → उसने किताब धरी।
Since 'dharna' is transitive, 'ne' is mandatory with the subject in the perfective tense.
Using 'dharna' to hold someone's hand romantically. → हाथ पकड़ना (haath pakadna)
'Dharna' sounds clinical or like an arrest. 'Pakadna' is the correct word for a grip or embrace.

Consejos

Master the 'Ne' Rule

Always remember that 'dharna' is transitive. If you say 'I placed the bag', it must be 'मैंने बैग धरा'. Without 'ne', the sentence is grammatically incomplete.

Use in Protests

If you see people sitting on the ground with signs in India, the word to use is 'dharna'. It is a very specific cultural term that goes beyond just 'protest'.

Rustic Flavor

If you want to sound like you've lived in a village in Uttar Pradesh, use 'dharo' instead of 'rakho' when asking someone to put something down.

Aspirate the 'D'

The 'dh' in 'dharna' is like the 'd-h' in 'mad-house'. Make sure a puff of air comes out, or you might accidentally say 'darna' (to fear).

Philosophical Usage

The phrase 'dhara ka dhara reh gaya' is a powerful way to describe how material things don't matter in the end. Use it to sound more profound.

Devotional Context

In temples or religious talks, 'dharna' is used for placing one's head at the feet of the divine. It conveys deep humility.

Catching Criminals

When reading crime reports, 'dhar liya' or 'dhar dabocha' are common ways to say the suspect was apprehended.

Assuming Forms

In storytelling, use 'roop dharna' for characters who change their appearance or use disguises.

Crowd Description

To describe a very crowded place, use 'paon dharne ki jagah nahi'. It literally means there's no place to even set a foot.

Requesting Patience

Instead of saying 'wait', try 'dheeraj dhariye' (hold patience). It is a more poetic and gentle way to ask someone to be patient.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Think of 'Dhar-na' as 'Down-na'. You put something 'Down' or 'Dhar' it on the floor. Or think of a 'Dhar-na' protest where people 'Dhar' (place) themselves on the ground.

Asociación visual

Imagine a heavy bag being 'Dhar-ed' (placed) on a dusty road, or a group of protesters sitting calmly on a carpet in the middle of a busy street.

Word Web

Hold Place Protest Support Maintain Catch Step Assume

Desafío

Try to use 'dharna' in three different ways today: once for a physical object, once for 'patience', and once referring to a news event about a protest.

Origen de la palabra

Derived from the Sanskrit root 'dhṛ' (धृ), which means to hold, bear, carry, or maintain. This root is one of the most prolific in Indo-European languages.

Significado original: The original meaning was 'to support' or 'to keep in a fixed position'.

Indo-Aryan -> Sanskrit -> Prakrit -> Hindi.

Contexto cultural

While 'dharna' is a common protest, it is a serious political action. Using it jokingly about minor complaints might seem trivializing to those who use it for major social causes.

English speakers might recognize the word from news reports about Indian politics. It is often translated as 'sit-in', but 'dharna' implies a more ritualized and public form of protest.

Anna Hazare's 2011 dharna at Ramlila Maidan for the Lokpal Bill. The phrase 'Dharna-Pradarshan' is a daily occurrence in Indian news headlines. The deity 'Murali-dhar' (Krishna) is 'the one who holds the flute'.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

At Home

सामान यहाँ धरो।
गिलास नीचे धरो।
बैग मेज़ पर धरो।
जूते बाहर धरो।

Political News

धरना प्रदर्शन।
अनिश्चितकालीन धरना।
धरने पर बैठना।
धरना समाप्त करना।

Police/Crime

उसे धर लिया।
धर दबोचना।
रंगे हाथों धरना।
पकड़-धड़।

Spirituality

ध्यान धरना।
धीरज धरना।
चरणों में सिर धरना।
ईश्वर का रूप धरना।

Crowded Places

पाँव धरने की जगह नहीं।
पैर कहाँ धरूँ?
कदम-कदम पर भीड़।
संभलकर पैर धरना।

Inicios de conversación

"क्या आपने आज की न्यूज़ में धरने के बारे में सुना? (Did you hear about the protest in today's news?)"

"मैं अपना बैग कहाँ धरूँ? (Where should I put my bag?)"

"क्या आप कभी किसी धरने में शामिल हुए हैं? (Have you ever joined a protest?)"

"गाँव के लोग 'रखना' की जगह 'धरना' क्यों बोलते हैं? (Why do village people say 'dharna' instead of 'rakhna'?)"

"क्या मुसीबत में धीरज धरना आसान है? (Is it easy to hold patience in trouble?)"

Temas para diario

Write about a time you had to 'dharna dheeraj' (hold patience) in a difficult situation.

Describe a scene at a busy Indian railway station using the phrase 'paon dharne ki jagah nahi'.

Imagine you are a reporter covering a 'dharna' at the city center. What do you see?

Compare the verbs 'rakhna' and 'dharna' based on your daily observations.

Write a short story about a character who has to 'vesh dharna' (take a disguise) to solve a mystery.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Yes, in a political context, 'dharna' is the exact equivalent of a sit-in protest. It involves people sitting in a public place to express disagreement. For example, 'The students are on a dharna' translates to 'छात्र धरने पर हैं'.

Use 'dharna' when you want to sound more traditional, when you are talking about setting a heavy object down, or in specific idioms like 'paon dharna' (to step). In most modern city conversations, 'rakhna' is more common for 'putting' things.

It can mean both. It means 'to put/place' (सामान धरो) and also 'to hold' (मुरली धरी), especially in a ceremonial or deliberate way. The context usually makes it clear.

'Dharna' (धरना) means to place/hold and starts with an aspirated 'dh'. 'Darna' (डरना) means to be afraid and starts with a retroflex 'd'. They are often confused by beginners, so pay attention to the sound.

It depends on the context. In political news, it is a standard term. In daily life, it can sound a bit rustic or old-fashioned compared to 'rakhna'. However, in literature and poetry, it is considered quite beautiful.

In some rural dialects, yes. But in standard Hindi, 'pehnna' is used for wearing. 'Dharna' might be used for 'assuming a disguise' (vesh dharna) in stories.

It is an idiomatic expression meaning 'to pounce and catch'. It is often used for the police catching a criminal or a predator catching prey. For example, 'पुलिस ने चोर को धर दबोचा' (The police pounced and caught the thief).

The term comes from the idea of 'holding' a position or 'placing' oneself at the door of an opponent to demand justice. It has historical roots in traditional Indian methods of debt collection and seeking audience with a king.

The most common and correct phrase is 'dharna dena' (to give a dharna). You might occasionally hear 'dharna pradarshan karna' (to do a protest demonstration).

Since it is transitive, you use 'ne'. 'मैंने धरा' (I placed - masc. object), 'मैंने धरी' (I placed - fem. object), 'मैंने धरे' (I placed - masc. plural object).

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