निगरानी रखना

You use this phrase like a standard verb. The word nigraani is a noun. You pair it with rakhna (to keep). You can say par nigraani rakhna to mean 'keep watch over'. It fits perfectly when you want someone to be careful. It is common in both physical and digital contexts today.

Use it when you leave your luggage with a friend. Use it at work when monitoring a project's progress. It is great for telling a neighbor to watch your house. Use it when you are suspicious of a strange noise outside. It works well in professional security contexts too. If you are tracking your diet, you are keeping nigraani on your calories.

Do not use it for casual 'looking.' If you are just watching a movie, do not use this. It sounds too intense, like you are spying on the actors. Avoid it for passive glancing. It implies a level of 'duty' or 'checking.' If you use it for a romantic partner, it might sound like stalking. Use it for safety, not for being a 'creep.'

In India, community vigilance is a big deal. Neighbors often keep nigraani on each other's kids or homes. It stems from a culture of collective responsibility. Historically, it was used for guards at palace gates. Today, it is the favorite phrase of every 'Desi' parent. They want to know where you are at all times. It is a mix of care and control.

You might hear nazar rakhna which is more informal. Nazar means 'eye' or 'sight.' Nigraani sounds a bit more official and serious. Another variation is dekh-rekh karna, which means 'to look after.' Use nigraani when the focus is on safety or prevention. It is the 'security camera' of Hindi phrases.