At the A1 level, you should know that 'Vidrohi' means 'rebel' or 'rebellious'. It is a word used for someone who does not listen to their parents or teachers. Think of it as a step up from being 'naughty'. In very simple sentences, you can use it to describe a person's nature. For example, 'He is a rebel' becomes 'Vah ek vidrohi hai'. At this stage, don't worry about the political or historical meanings. Just remember it as a word for someone who says 'no' to rules. It's a useful word to know because it appears in many stories and movies. Even if you don't use it much yourself yet, being able to recognize it when someone describes a character as 'vidrohi' will help you understand the story better. Just remember the 'ee' sound at the end and try to say it clearly: Vid-roh-hee.
At the A2 level, you can start using 'Vidrohi' to describe people's personalities in more detail. You might use it to talk about a character in a book or a movie who is a bit of a troublemaker or who stands up for themselves. You should also understand that 'Vidrohi' can be an adjective (a rebellious boy) or a noun (the rebel). At this stage, you can begin to pair it with simple nouns like 'ladka' (boy), 'ladki' (girl), or 'vichar' (thoughts). For example, 'Vidrohi vichar' means 'rebellious thoughts'. This level is about expanding the context from just 'not listening' to 'having a different opinion'. You are starting to see that this word is about more than just bad behavior—it's about having a strong, independent mind. Try to use it in sentences like 'My friend is a rebel' or 'I don't like rebellious people'.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'Vidrohi' in a variety of contexts, including social and historical ones. You should understand that it comes from the noun 'Vidroh' (rebellion). You can now use it to discuss historical figures or news events. For instance, you might describe a group of people protesting against a law as 'vidrohi'. You should also be able to distinguish 'vidrohi' from 'ziddi' (stubborn). While 'ziddi' is about being difficult for no reason, 'vidrohi' implies a reason or a cause. At this level, you can use more complex sentence structures like 'The rebel soldiers attacked the fort' or 'She has a rebellious spirit that makes her unique'. You are also expected to recognize the word in more formal settings, like news headlines or short articles about social issues. This is the level where the word's political weight starts to become important.
At the B2 level, you should understand the deeper nuances of 'Vidrohi'. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'rebellious art' or 'rebellious poetry'. You should be aware of its literary significance, such as the 'Vidrohi Kavi' (Rebel Poet) tradition in Indian literature. You can also start using synonyms like 'Baghi' or 'Krantikari' and know when to choose one over the other based on the register. For example, you would use 'Vidrohi' in a semi-formal essay but might use 'Baghi' in a more emotional or colloquial story. You should also be able to use the feminine form 'Vidrohini' correctly when needed. Your sentences should be more sophisticated, such as 'The filmmaker's rebellious approach changed the industry forever'. You should also understand how 'vidrohi' can be used ironically or metaphorically in modern Hindi prose.
At the C1 level, you should have a native-like grasp of 'Vidrohi'. You understand its historical baggage, especially in the context of the 1857 Revolt and the freedom struggle. You can use it to analyze political movements, distinguishing between 'vidroh' (rebellion), 'andolan' (movement), and 'kranti' (revolution). You should be able to appreciate the word's use in high-level literature and philosophy, where 'rebellion' is often discussed as a human condition. You can use phrases like 'vidrohi tevar' (rebellious attitude) or 'vidrohi sur' (rebellious tone) to describe subtle nuances in art and behavior. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's power to both inspire and condemn. You can discuss the ethics of being a 'vidrohi' in a complex society, using the word to describe intellectuals who challenge prevailing paradigms. At this level, 'vidrohi' is not just a vocabulary word; it's a concept you can manipulate with precision.
At the C2 level, you master the word 'Vidrohi' in all its complexities across history, law, literature, and sociology. You can differentiate between 'vidroh' (revolt), 'baghavat' (rebellion/mutiny), and 'rajdroh' (sedition/treason) with legal and historical accuracy. You can engage in deep literary analysis of 'rebel' characters, discussing how the 'vidrohi' archetype has evolved in Hindi cinema and literature over the decades. You are comfortable using the word in highly formal academic papers or in the most nuanced poetic compositions. You understand the socio-linguistic impact of the word—how calling someone a 'vidrohi' can be an act of empowerment or a label of criminalization. You can use the word to describe existential rebellion, drawing parallels with global literary figures. Your command is such that you can use 'vidrohi' to capture the most subtle shifts in social dynamics or personal psychology, using it with the perfect tone and register every time.

विद्रोही in 30 Seconds

  • Vidrohi is the Hindi word for 'rebel' or 'rebellious', used for people who defy authority.
  • It comes from the root word 'Vidroh', which means rebellion or revolt against a system.
  • The word can be used both as an adjective (rebellious) and as a masculine noun (a rebel).
  • It is common in historical, political, and personal contexts to describe a defiant nature.

The Hindi word विद्रोही (Vidrohī) is a powerful and evocative term used to describe someone who goes against established authority, norms, or government systems. At its core, it is derived from the word 'vidroh' (rebellion or revolt). While in English, 'rebel' can sometimes have a cool or trendy connotation, in Hindi, 'vidrohi' often carries a more serious, political, or historical weight, though it is also used in a personal context to describe a defiant personality. Understanding this word requires looking at both its literal meaning of an insurgent and its figurative meaning of a non-conformist. It is a word often found in history books discussing India's struggle for independence, but it is equally at home in a psychological discussion about a teenager's behavior. The nuance of 'vidrohi' lies in the intent; it isn't just about being stubborn (which would be 'ziddi'), but about actively challenging the status quo.

Political Context
In a political or historical sense, a 'vidrohi' is an insurgent or a revolutionary who takes up arms or organizes protests against a ruling power. For example, the soldiers of the 1857 uprising are often called 'vidrohi sipahi' (rebel soldiers).

इतिहास में उन्हें एक विद्रोही नेता के रूप में याद किया जाता है। (In history, he is remembered as a rebellious leader.)

Social Context
Socially, it refers to someone who breaks traditional rules or family expectations. A person who marries outside their caste against their family's wishes might be labeled 'vidrohi' in a conservative setting.

उसका विद्रोही स्वभाव उसे समाज के बंधनों को तोड़ने पर मजबूर करता है। (His rebellious nature forces him to break the shackles of society.)

Furthermore, 'vidrohi' can function as both an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it describes a person's nature (a rebellious spirit), and as a noun, it refers to the person themselves (the rebel). In literature, the 'vidrohi kavi' (rebel poet) is a common trope, referring to poets who use their verses to incite change and challenge oppression. Kazi Nazrul Islam is famously known as the 'Bidrohi Kobi' (Rebel Poet) in the Indian subcontinent. The word implies a certain level of courage and conviction, even if the authority being challenged views the 'vidrohi' as a criminal. It is a word of conflict, change, and defiance that resonates deeply in the Hindi-speaking world's cultural and historical consciousness.

Literary Usage
Literature often romanticizes the 'vidrohi' as a hero fighting against a corrupt system. In these contexts, the word carries a positive, noble connotation of standing up for justice.

कविता की पंक्तियाँ विद्रोही सुरों से भरी हुई थीं। (The lines of the poem were filled with rebellious tones.)

Using 'vidrohi' correctly involves placing it in contexts of opposition. Whether you are describing a person, an organization, or an abstract feeling, the essence of 'vidrohi' is always 'against the grain'. It is important to distinguish between 'vidrohi' and other similar words like 'baghi' (which is more informal/Urdu-influenced) or 'krantikari' (which implies a desire for total systemic revolution). When you use 'vidrohi', you are highlighting the act of defiance itself. In a sentence, it usually precedes the noun it modifies or follows a linking verb to describe a subject.

Describing a Person
When describing someone's character, 'vidrohi' suggests a deep-seated tendency to question and resist.

वह बचपन से ही विद्रोही विचारों का था। (He had rebellious thoughts since childhood.)

Describing an Organization
In news reporting, it is often used to describe groups that are fighting the government.

विद्रोही गुटों ने सरकार के साथ शांति वार्ता करने से मना कर दिया। (The rebel groups refused to hold peace talks with the government.)

You can also use 'vidrohi' in a more abstract way to describe artistic styles or scientific theories that challenge the status quo. For instance, a 'vidrohi kalakaar' (rebel artist) is one who rejects traditional techniques. The word can also be paired with 'tevar' (attitude) to describe a person's overall vibe. If someone walks into a room with a 'vidrohi tevar', they look like they are ready to fight the system. It is a versatile word that moves from the high-stakes world of war to the subtle world of art and personality. Always ensure that the context justifies the strength of the word; calling someone 'vidrohi' for just choosing a different color of shirt might be seen as hyperbolic unless there's a specific rule they are breaking.

Describing an Attitude
It often describes the 'tevar' or 'andaz' (style/manner) of a person.

उसकी आँखों में एक विद्रोही चमक थी। (There was a rebellious spark in his eyes.)

In contemporary India, 'vidrohi' is a staple in several specific domains. If you turn on a Hindi news channel like Aaj Tak or NDTV India, you will frequently hear this word in international and domestic political segments. It is the standard term for insurgents in conflict zones such as Syria, Myanmar, or parts of India. News anchors use it to maintain a formal yet descriptive tone about anti-government forces. In this context, it is usually a neutral or slightly negative term, depending on the government's stance. However, when you shift to the world of Bollywood or Hindi cinema, the word takes on a much more heroic and romanticized meaning. Many iconic films feature a 'vidrohi' protagonist who fights against a corrupt landlord, a villainous politician, or a colonial power.

News & Media
Commonly used to describe armed groups or political factions that have split from a main party.

समाचारों के अनुसार, विद्रोही सेना ने राजधानी पर कब्जा कर लिया है। (According to news reports, the rebel army has captured the capital.)

Cinema & Pop Culture
Movies like 'Rang De Basanti' or 'The Legend of Bhagat Singh' evoke the 'vidrohi' spirit as something noble and necessary for national progress.

फिल्म का नायक एक विद्रोही है जो अन्याय के खिलाफ लड़ता है। (The hero of the film is a rebel who fights against injustice.)

Beyond news and movies, you'll encounter 'vidrohi' in Hindi literature and academic discussions. In history textbooks, the 1857 Revolt is called '1857 ka Vidroh', and the participants are 'vidrohi'. In literature, it is used to describe writers who broke away from classical Sanskritized traditions to write in the language of the common people. Even in daily life, if a child is being particularly difficult and defying parental authority with a sense of ideology (e.g., 'I won't eat meat because I believe it's wrong' as opposed to just 'I don't like broccoli'), a parent might jokingly or seriously call them a 'vidrohi'. It is a word that bridges the gap between the monumental events of history and the small, personal acts of defiance that define our lives.

History Textbooks
Standard terminology for participants in historical uprisings against colonial rule.

मंगल पांडे को पहला विद्रोही माना जाता है। (Mangal Pandey is considered the first rebel.)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 'vidrohi' with 'ziddi' (stubborn). While both involve a refusal to comply, 'ziddi' is about a personal whim or a refusal to change one's mind, whereas 'vidrohi' implies a systemic or principled opposition. If a child refuses to go to bed, they are 'ziddi'. If a citizen refuses to pay an unjust tax, they are 'vidrohi'. Another common error is using 'vidrohi' when 'krantikari' (revolutionary) is more appropriate. A 'vidrohi' might just want to stop an action or protest a rule, but a 'krantikari' wants to completely change the system from the bottom up. While many 'krantikaris' are 'vidrohis', not every 'vidrohi' has a revolutionary vision.

Vidrohi vs. Ziddi
Vidrohi is principled/systemic defiance; Ziddi is personal/unreasonable stubbornness.

गलत: वह खाना नहीं खा रहा, वह बहुत विद्रोही है। (Wrong: He isn't eating, he is very rebellious.) - Use 'ziddi' here unless it's a hunger strike!

Vidrohi vs. Baghi
'Baghi' is often used for social outlaws or bandits (like those in the Chambal valley), whereas 'Vidrohi' is more formal and ideological.

सही: उसने सरकार के खिलाफ विद्रोही रुख अपनाया। (Correct: He adopted a rebellious stance against the government.)

Learners also struggle with the gender of the word. Since 'vidrohi' ends in the 'ee' sound (ई), many assume it is feminine. However, in Hindi, many masculine nouns and adjectives end in 'ee' (like 'admi', 'bharti', 'vidrohi'). As an adjective, it is gender-neutral: 'vidrohi ladka' and 'vidrohi ladki' are both correct. Only when using it as a noun to specifically denote a female rebel would you use 'vidrohini'. Finally, be careful with the intensity. 'Vidrohi' is a strong word. Using it for minor disagreements can sound dramatic. Save it for moments of genuine defiance or when discussing history, politics, and deep-seated character traits.

Vidrohi vs. Virodhi
Virodhi = Opponent (like in a debate or sport); Vidrohi = Rebel (defying authority).

वह मेरा विरोधी है, विद्रोही नहीं। (He is my opponent, not a rebel.)

Hindi is rich with synonyms for 'rebellious', each offering a slightly different flavor. Depending on whether you want to sound formal, poetic, or colloquial, you might choose a different word. 'Vidrohi' is the most standard and versatile. If you want something more colloquial, especially with a touch of rural or historical grit, बागी (Bāghī) is the perfect choice. It suggests someone who has taken to the hills or become an outlaw. For a very formal or Sanskritized context, राजद्रोही (Rājdrōhī) is used, which specifically means 'traitor' or 'seditious person'—someone rebelling against the state (Raj).

Comparison Table
  • Vidrohi: General rebel/rebellious. Ideological or physical.
  • Baghi: Outlaw/Rebel. Often used for social rebels or bandits.
  • Krantikari: Revolutionary. Focuses on bringing total change.
  • Rajdrohi: Seditious/Traitor. Specifically against the government/state.
  • Uddaṇḍ: Insolent/Unruly. Usually used for children or students who are badly behaved.

वह एक बागी की तरह जंगलों में छिप गया। (He hid in the forests like an outlaw/rebel.)

Nuance: Krantikari
While a 'Vidrohi' might just be saying 'No', a 'Krantikari' is saying 'Let's build something new'. This distinction is vital in political discourse.

भगत सिंह एक महान क्रांतिकारी थे। (Bhagat Singh was a great revolutionary.)

In Urdu-influenced Hindi, you might also hear सरकश (Sarkash), which means defiant or headstrong. This is often used in poetry to describe a lover who refuses to submit or a horse that is hard to tame. Another interesting alternative is अराजकतावादी (Arājakatāvādī), which specifically means 'anarchist'. While an anarchist is a type of rebel, the word is much more technical and political. For everyday use, stick to 'vidrohi'. It is the most recognized and carries the right balance of seriousness and descriptiveness across all Hindi dialects and social strata.

Poetic Alternative
'Sarkash' is beautiful in poetry but rare in daily conversation.

उसकी सरकश लहरों ने किनारे को तोड़ दिया। (The defiant waves broke the shore.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word is a 'Tatsama' word, meaning it has been borrowed directly from Sanskrit into Hindi without changing its spelling or form significantly over thousands of years.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /vɪdˈroʊhiː/
US /vɪdˈroʊhi/
The stress is on the second syllable 'droh'.
Rhymes With
द्रोही (Drohī) क्रोधी (Krodhī) मोही (Mohī) लोही (Lohī) रोही (Rohī) अद्रोही (Adrohī) देशद्रोही (Deshdrohī) राजद्रोही (Rājdrohī)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing it as 'Vid-roi' (missing the 'h').
  • Using a retroflex 'd' (like English 'd') instead of a dental 'd' (tongue against teeth).
  • Making the first 'i' too long (like 'veed-rohi').
  • Not aspirating the 'h' in 'roh'.
  • Pronouncing 'v' as a hard 'w'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts once the root 'Vidroh' is known.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct spelling of the 'dr' conjunct and the 'h' aspiration.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is straightforward if the 'h' is not skipped.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and movies, making it easy to pick up.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

विद्रोह (Vidroh) विरोध (Virodh) नेता (Neta) स्वभाव (Swabhav) लड़ना (Ladna)

Learn Next

क्रांति (Kranti) आंदोलन (Andolan) सत्ता (Satta) अधिकार (Adhikar) बगावत (Bagavat)

Advanced

राजद्रोह (Sedition) अराजकता (Anarchy) प्रतिरोध (Resistance) उग्रवादी (Extremist) स्वतंत्रता सेनानी (Freedom Fighter)

Grammar to Know

Adjective placement

विद्रोही (Adjective) + लड़का (Noun) = विद्रोही लड़का।

Oblique case for 'ee' ending masculine nouns

विद्रोही -> विद्रोहियों (e.g., विद्रोहियों ने कहा)।

Feminine suffix '-ini'

विद्रोही (Masculine) -> विद्रोहिनी (Feminine).

Verb formation with 'karna'

विद्रोह (Noun) + करना (Verb) = विद्रोह करना (To rebel).

Compound formation

देश (Country) + द्रोही (Rebel/Traitor) = देशद्रोही।

Examples by Level

1

वह एक विद्रोही लड़का है।

He is a rebellious boy.

Subject + Adjective + Noun + Verb.

2

विद्रोही मत बनो।

Don't be a rebel.

Imperative sentence.

3

क्या तुम विद्रोही हो?

Are you a rebel?

Interrogative sentence.

4

वह विद्रोही नहीं है।

He is not a rebel.

Negative sentence.

5

मेरे पास एक विद्रोही दोस्त है।

I have a rebellious friend.

Possessive structure.

6

विद्रोही लोग यहाँ हैं।

The rebels are here.

Plural subject.

7

उसका स्वभाव विद्रोही है।

His nature is rebellious.

Abstract noun as subject.

8

विद्रोही बच्चे शोर करते हैं।

Rebellious children make noise.

General statement.

1

फिल्म में नायक विद्रोही है।

The hero in the movie is a rebel.

Locative 'mein' used.

2

उसने विद्रोही कपड़े पहने थे।

He was wearing rebellious clothes.

Past tense with 'ne' (though 'pehan-na' is an exception, 'pehne the' works).

3

विद्रोही विचारों से बदलाव आता है।

Change comes from rebellious thoughts.

Instrumental 'se' used.

4

वे विद्रोही समूह का हिस्सा हैं।

They are part of a rebel group.

Genitive 'ka' used.

5

रानी लक्ष्मीबाई एक विद्रोही थीं।

Rani Laxmibai was a rebel.

Honorific 'thin' used.

6

उसकी बातें विद्रोही लगती हैं।

His words sound rebellious.

Verb 'lagna' meaning 'to seem'.

7

विद्रोही होना आसान नहीं है।

Being a rebel is not easy.

Gerund 'hona' as subject.

8

हमें विद्रोही छात्रों को समझाना चाहिए।

We should explain things to the rebellious students.

Modal 'chahiye'.

1

विद्रोही सैनिकों ने किले पर हमला किया।

The rebel soldiers attacked the fort.

Ergative 'ne' with past transitive verb.

2

उसका विद्रोही व्यवहार सबको परेशान करता है।

His rebellious behavior troubles everyone.

Present simple with 'karta hai'.

3

समाज विद्रोही लोगों को पसंद नहीं करता।

Society does not like rebellious people.

Negative present simple.

4

विद्रोही कवि ने सरकार की आलोचना की।

The rebel poet criticized the government.

Specific noun-adjective pairing.

5

उसने अपनी विद्रोही पहचान बनाई।

He created his rebellious identity.

Possessive 'apni'.

6

विद्रोही गुटों के बीच समझौता हुआ।

An agreement was reached between rebel groups.

Postposition 'ke beech'.

7

उसकी आँखों में विद्रोही चमक थी।

There was a rebellious spark in his eyes.

Metaphorical usage.

8

इतिहास विद्रोही नायकों से भरा है।

History is full of rebellious heroes.

Adjective phrase.

1

उसने विद्रोही तेवर अपनाकर सबको चौंका दिया।

He shocked everyone by adopting a rebellious attitude.

Conjunctive participle 'apnakar'.

2

विद्रोही विचारधारा युवाओं को आकर्षित करती है।

Rebellious ideology attracts the youth.

Abstract noun 'vichardhara'.

3

यह फिल्म एक विद्रोही प्रेम कहानी है।

This film is a rebellious love story.

Adjective modifying a compound noun.

4

विद्रोही नेताओं ने चुनाव का बहिष्कार किया।

The rebel leaders boycotted the election.

Formal vocabulary 'bahishkar'.

5

उसकी विद्रोही कविताएँ आज भी प्रासंगिक हैं।

His rebellious poems are still relevant today.

Adjective 'prasangik'.

6

उसने समाज की विद्रोही छवि पेश की।

He presented a rebellious image of society.

Noun 'chhavi' (image).

7

विद्रोही होना ही उसकी सबसे बड़ी ताकत है।

Being a rebel is his greatest strength.

Superlative 'sabse badi'.

8

विद्रोही स्वर दबाने की कोशिश की गई।

An attempt was made to suppress the rebellious voice.

Passive voice 'ki gayi'.

1

दार्शनिक ने विद्रोही चेतना की व्याख्या की।

The philosopher explained the rebellious consciousness.

Academic vocabulary 'chetna' and 'vyakhya'.

2

विद्रोही गुटों की गतिविधियों पर नज़र रखी जा रही है।

The activities of rebel groups are being monitored.

Continuous passive 'rakhi ja rahi hai'.

3

उसका विद्रोही लेखन सत्ता के लिए खतरा बन गया।

His rebellious writing became a threat to the power/regime.

Compound subject 'vidrohi lekhan'.

4

विद्रोही सुरों ने संगीत को एक नई दिशा दी।

Rebellious tones gave music a new direction.

Metaphorical use in art.

5

उसने अपनी विद्रोही प्रवृत्तियों को रचनात्मकता में बदला।

He turned his rebellious tendencies into creativity.

Plural 'pravrittiyon'.

6

विद्रोही मानसिकता को समझना अनिवार्य है।

It is essential to understand the rebellious mindset.

Formal adjective 'anivarya'.

7

उसके विद्रोही कृत्यों ने कानून को चुनौती दी।

His rebellious acts challenged the law.

Formal noun 'krityon'.

8

विद्रोही भावनाओं का दमन करना कठिन है।

It is difficult to suppress rebellious emotions.

Infinitive as subject 'daman karna'.

1

अस्तित्ववाद के मूल में एक विद्रोही दर्शन छिपा है।

A rebellious philosophy is hidden at the core of existentialism.

Complex philosophical structure.

2

विद्रोही तत्वों ने शासन की नींव हिला दी।

Rebellious elements shook the foundations of the regime.

Metaphorical 'neev hila dena'.

3

उसकी विद्रोही मेधा ने पारंपरिक ज्ञान को नकारा।

His rebellious intellect rejected traditional knowledge.

High-level noun 'medha' (intellect).

4

विद्रोही स्वर अक्सर हाशिए पर रहने वालों की आवाज़ होते हैं।

Rebellious voices are often the voices of those on the margins.

Sociological term 'hashiye par' (on the margins).

5

साहित्य में विद्रोही नायक की अवधारणा निरंतर बदलती रही है।

The concept of the rebel hero in literature has been constantly changing.

Abstract noun 'avdharna' (concept).

6

विद्रोही मानसिकता और अराजकता के बीच एक महीन रेखा है।

There is a thin line between a rebellious mindset and anarchy.

Comparative 'ke beech ek maheen rekha'.

7

उसने अपनी विद्रोही ऊर्जा को सामाजिक सुधार में लगाया।

He channeled his rebellious energy into social reform.

Dative 'mein lagaya'.

8

विद्रोही चेतना ही मानवीय प्रगति का इंजन है।

Rebellious consciousness itself is the engine of human progress.

Emphatic particle 'hi'.

Common Collocations

विद्रोही गुट
विद्रोही तेवर
विद्रोही सुर
विद्रोही विचारधारा
विद्रोही सैनिक
विद्रोही स्वभाव
विद्रोही कविता
विद्रोही नेता
विद्रोही भावना
विद्रोही आंदोलन

Common Phrases

विद्रोही होना

— To be a rebel or to be rebellious.

आज के समय में विद्रोही होना मुश्किल है।

विद्रोही बन जाना

— To become a rebel.

परिस्थितियों ने उसे विद्रोही बना दिया।

विद्रोही रुख अपनाना

— To adopt a rebellious stance.

किसानों ने विद्रोही रुख अपनाया है।

विद्रोही आवाज़

— A rebellious voice (literal or figurative).

उसकी विद्रोही आवाज़ को दबाया नहीं जा सकता।

विद्रोही मन

— A rebellious mind/heart.

उसका विद्रोही मन किसी की नहीं सुनता।

विद्रोही तेवर दिखाना

— To show a rebellious attitude.

उसने मीटिंग में अपने विद्रोही तेवर दिखाए।

विद्रोही की तरह

— Like a rebel.

वह विद्रोही की तरह लड़ रहा है।

पूर्णतः विद्रोही

— Completely rebellious.

उसका व्यवहार पूर्णतः विद्रोही था।

विद्रोही पहचान

— Rebel identity.

उसने अपनी एक विद्रोही पहचान बनाई है।

विद्रोही साहित्य

— Rebel literature.

विद्रोही साहित्य समाज को जगाता है।

Often Confused With

विद्रोही vs विरोधी (Virodhi)

Virodhi means opponent (like in a game), while Vidrohi means a rebel against a system.

विद्रोही vs जिद्दी (Ziddi)

Ziddi is stubborn (personal), while Vidrohi is rebellious (principled or systemic).

विद्रोही vs आतंकवादी (Atankvadi)

Atankvadi means terrorist; 'Vidrohi' is often used more neutrally for insurgents.

Idioms & Expressions

"हवा के खिलाफ चलना"

— To go against the wind (to be rebellious/non-conformist).

वह हमेशा हवा के खिलाफ चलता है, वह सच्चा विद्रोही है।

Metaphorical
"आँखें दिखाना"

— To show eyes (to defy or threaten authority).

छोटा बच्चा भी अब बड़ों को आँखें दिखाने लगा है, बहुत विद्रोही हो गया है।

Informal
"लकीर का फकीर न होना"

— To not be a slave to tradition (to be a rebel against old ways).

वह लकीर का फकीर नहीं है, उसके विचार विद्रोही हैं।

Idiomatic
"ईंट से ईंट बजाना"

— To destroy completely (often used by rebels against a system).

विद्रोहियों ने पुरानी व्यवस्था की ईंट से ईंट बजा दी।

Strong/Historical
"लोहा लेना"

— To fight/challenge a strong opponent.

उसने अकेले ही पूरी व्यवस्था से लोहा लिया, वह असली विद्रोही है।

Respectful
"सिर उठाना"

— To raise one's head (to begin to rebel).

अब जनता ने अन्याय के खिलाफ सिर उठाना शुरू कर दिया है।

Common
"आस्तीन का साँप"

— A snake in the sleeve (a traitor/hidden rebel).

वह विद्रोही नहीं, बल्कि आस्तीन का साँप निकला।

Negative
"पहाड़ से टकराना"

— To collide with a mountain (to rebel against a giant power).

सरकार से लड़ना पहाड़ से टकराने जैसा है, पर वह विद्रोही पीछे नहीं हटा।

Metaphorical
"बेड़ियाँ तोड़ना"

— To break shackles (the ultimate act of a rebel).

उसने समाज की बेड़ियाँ तोड़ दीं और विद्रोही बन गया।

Poetic
"मैदान में उतरना"

— To enter the battlefield (to start an active rebellion).

विद्रोही अब खुले मैदान में उतर आए हैं।

Action-oriented

Easily Confused

विद्रोही vs विद्रोही vs बागी

Both mean rebel.

Vidrohi is more formal and ideological; Baghi is more colloquial and often implies an outlaw status.

He is a political Vidrohi; He became a Baghi and fled to the hills.

विद्रोही vs विद्रोही vs विद्रोही

Noun vs Adjective usage.

As a noun, it's 'the rebel'; as an adjective, it's 'rebellious'.

The Vidrohi (noun) showed his Vidrohi (adjective) side.

विद्रोही vs विद्रोही vs विद्रोही

Gender confusion.

Vidrohi is used for both genders as an adjective, but Vidrohini is specifically for a female rebel noun.

Vidrohi ladki (Adj); Vah ek Vidrohini hai (Noun).

विद्रोही vs विद्रोही vs क्रांतिकारी

Both fight authority.

A Krantikari wants a total new system; a Vidrohi might just be against the current one.

The Vidrohi joined the Krantikari movement.

विद्रोही vs विद्रोही vs अपराधी

Both break laws.

An Apradhi (criminal) breaks law for personal gain; a Vidrohi does it for a cause.

The government calls him an Apradhi, but the people call him a Vidrohi.

Sentence Patterns

A1

वह [Noun] विद्रोही है।

वह लड़का विद्रोही है।

A2

मुझे विद्रोही [Noun] पसंद हैं।

मुझे विद्रोही विचार पसंद हैं।

B1

[Noun] ने विद्रोही रुख अपनाया।

जनता ने विद्रोही रुख अपनाया।

B2

उसका [Noun] विद्रोही स्वभाव का परिणाम है।

उसका व्यवहार विद्रोही स्वभाव का परिणाम है।

C1

विद्रोही [Noun] को दबाना कठिन है।

विद्रोही भावनाओं को दबाना कठिन है।

C2

[Noun] के मूल में विद्रोही चेतना है।

इस कला के मूल में विद्रोही चेतना है।

B1

विद्रोही होने का अर्थ है...

विद्रोही होने का अर्थ है अन्याय का विरोध करना।

A2

क्या आप विद्रोही हैं?

क्या आप विद्रोही हैं?

Word Family

Nouns

विद्रोह (Vidroh - Rebellion)
विद्रोहता (Vidrohta - Rebelliousness)
विद्रोही (Vidrohi - Rebel)
विद्रोहिनी (Vidrohini - Female Rebel)

Verbs

विद्रोह करना (Vidroh karna - To rebel/revolt)

Adjectives

विद्रोही (Vidrohi - Rebellious)
विद्रोहपूर्ण (Vidroh-purn - Rebellious/Full of revolt)

Related

बगावत (Bagavat)
क्रांति (Kranti)
विरोध (Virodh)
आंदोलन (Andolan)
अराजकता (Arajakata)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in news, history, and literature. Moderate in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes
  • Saying 'Vidroi' instead of 'Vidrohi'. Vidrohi (with an aspirated 'h').

    The 'h' is essential in the second syllable.

  • Using 'Vidrohi' for a child who won't eat vegetables. Ziddi (Stubborn).

    'Vidrohi' is too strong for minor personal preferences.

  • Using 'Vidrohi' as a feminine adjective like 'Vidrohi ladki'. Vidrohi ladki (It's already correct, no change needed).

    Some learners try to change the ending to 'a' or something else, but it stays 'Vidrohi'.

  • Confusing 'Vidrohi' with 'Virodhi'. Virodhi (Opponent) vs Vidrohi (Rebel).

    An opponent in a game is a 'Virodhi', not a 'Vidrohi'.

  • Using 'Vidrohi' when 'Rajdrohi' (Traitor) is legally required. Rajdrohi.

    In legal contexts of treason, 'Rajdrohi' is the technical term.

Tips

Context Matters

Always check if the person is fighting for a cause or just being difficult. Use 'Vidrohi' for the former and 'Ziddi' for the latter.

The 'H' Factor

Don't forget the 'h' in 'roh'. A clear 'h' makes your Hindi sound more authentic and native-like.

Adjective Stability

Remember that 'Vidrohi' as an adjective doesn't change its ending for gender. 'Vidrohi ladka' and 'Vidrohi ladki' are both correct.

Historical Link

Linking the word to the 1857 Revolt will help you remember its serious and powerful connotation.

Artistic Flair

Use 'Vidrohi' to describe art or music that breaks the rules; it's a very common way to use the word in intellectual circles.

Tone

When using 'Vidrohi' to praise someone, use a respectful tone. When using it to complain, use a frustrated tone. The word carries both.

News Keywords

If you hear 'Vidrohi' in a news report, look for words like 'hamla' (attack) or 'sarkar' (government) to understand the full story.

Spelling Check

The conjunct 'dr' in विद्रोही is a common hurdle. Practice writing the 'da' with the 'ra' slant until it becomes natural.

Synonym Nuance

Learn 'Baghi' and 'Krantikari' alongside 'Vidrohi' to truly master the 'rebel' spectrum in Hindi.

Rebel Poets

Look up Kazi Nazrul Islam to see how 'Vidrohi' is used in one of the most famous poems in the subcontinent's history.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Vid' (Video) + 'Roh' (Row) + 'Hi'. Imagine a person making a 'Video' of themselves in a 'Row' (fight) saying 'Hi' to the authorities they are defying. A Vid-Roh-Hi is a rebel caught on camera!

Visual Association

Associate the word with a picture of a fist raised in the air or a person standing alone against a wall of soldiers. The 'V' in Vidrohi can stand for 'Voice' against 'Vested' interests.

Word Web

Rebel History Revolution Defiance Authority Protest Change Independence

Challenge

Try to use 'Vidrohi' in three different ways today: once to describe a character in a show, once to talk about a historical figure, and once to describe a feeling of wanting to break a boring rule.

Word Origin

The word 'Vidrohi' is of Sanskrit origin, derived from the root 'Vidrohin'. It is a combination of the prefix 'Vi' (meaning against, apart, or distinct) and the root 'Droha' (meaning injury, harm, or treachery).

Original meaning: In Sanskrit, it originally referred to someone who committed treachery or was hostile toward a ruler or a friend.

Indo-Aryan -> Sanskrit -> Hindi.

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'Vidrohi' in sensitive political discussions in India, as it can sometimes be associated with banned insurgent groups.

English speakers might use 'rebel' more casually (e.g., 'rebel without a cause'). In Hindi, 'Vidrohi' usually implies a more serious opposition.

Kazi Nazrul Islam's poem 'Bidrohi' (The Rebel). The 1857 Sepoy Mutiny (1857 ka Vidroh). The Bollywood film 'Rebel' (often translated or themed as Vidrohi).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

History Class

  • 1857 का विद्रोह
  • विद्रोही सिपाही
  • अंग्रेजों के खिलाफ
  • आजादी की लड़ाई

News Report

  • विद्रोही हमला
  • शांति वार्ता
  • हथियार डालना
  • सरकार का विरोध

Parent-Teacher Meeting

  • बच्चे का व्यवहार
  • नियमों को तोड़ना
  • विद्रोही स्वभाव
  • अनुशासन की कमी

Literary Discussion

  • विद्रोही कवि
  • समाज की बुराइयाँ
  • पुरानी परंपराएँ
  • कलम की ताकत

Movie Review

  • नायक के तेवर
  • अन्याय के खिलाफ
  • जबरदस्त विद्रोह
  • सिस्टम से लड़ाई

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपको लगता है कि समाज के विकास के लिए विद्रोही होना ज़रूरी है?"

"आपके पसंदीदा विद्रोही ऐतिहासिक नायक कौन हैं?"

"अगर कोई बच्चा विद्रोही व्यवहार करे, तो माता-पिता को क्या करना चाहिए?"

"क्या आपने कभी किसी नियम के खिलाफ विद्रोही रुख अपनाया है?"

"हिंदी फिल्मों में विद्रोही किरदारों को इतना पसंद क्यों किया जाता है?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने एक ऐसी स्थिति देखी जहाँ मुझे विद्रोही बनने का मन किया...

मेरे विचार में एक सच्चा विद्रोही वह है जो...

इतिहास के पन्नों से एक विद्रोही की कहानी जो मुझे प्रेरित करती है...

क्या विद्रोही होना और अनुशासनहीन होना एक ही बात है? मेरे विचार...

अगर मैं एक विद्रोही कवि होता, तो मैं इन विषयों पर लिखता...

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It depends on the context. In history and movies, it is often positive/heroic. In news or strict social settings, it can be negative.

Yes, but it sounds a bit formal or dramatic. 'Ziddi' or 'Shaitaan' is more common for little kids, unless they are truly defying a 'system'!

'Vidrohi' is formal and standard Hindi. 'Baghi' is more colloquial and has a stronger association with outlaws and bandits.

You use the phrase 'Vidroh karna' (विद्रोह करना).

It is grammatically masculine as a noun, but as an adjective, it is gender-neutral. The specific feminine noun is 'Vidrohini'.

The most common opposites are 'Agyakari' (obedient) or 'Wafadar' (loyal).

Yes, metaphorically. For example, 'vidrohi lahrein' (rebellious waves) or 'vidrohi kavitayein' (rebellious poems).

Usually, 'Rajdrohi' (seditious) is used in legal contexts, but 'Vidrohi' might be used to describe members of an insurgent group.

It comes from Sanskrit 'Vidrohin', meaning one who acts with hostility or treachery toward authority.

It is moderately common. You'll hear it in news, movies, and discussions about personality, but less so in basic small talk.

Test Yourself 180 questions

writing

Write a sentence in Hindi using 'Vidrohi' to describe a person.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate: 'The rebel soldiers are brave.'

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writing

Use 'Vidrohi Tevar' in a sentence.

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writing

Write a short paragraph about why someone might become a 'Vidrohi'.

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writing

Translate: 'Rebellious thoughts bring change.'

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writing

Describe a 'Vidrohi Kavi' in one sentence.

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writing

Make a sentence with the feminine form 'Vidrohini'.

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writing

Translate: 'The government is monitoring the rebel groups.'

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writing

Use 'Vidrohi' as a noun in a sentence.

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writing

Describe the difference between 'Vidrohi' and 'Ziddi' in Hindi.

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writing

Translate: 'He has a rebellious spirit.'

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writing

Write a headline about a 'Vidrohi' group.

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writing

Translate: 'Don't be a rebel without a cause.'

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writing

Use 'Vidrohi' to describe an artist.

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writing

Translate: 'Rebel voices cannot be suppressed.'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'Vidrohiyon' (plural oblique).

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writing

Translate: 'Is his nature rebellious?'

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writing

Use 'Vidrohi' in a formal context.

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writing

Translate: 'A rebel hero.'

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writing

Write about a time you felt like a 'Vidrohi'.

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speaking

Pronounce the word 'विद्रोही' clearly.

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'He is a rebel.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'I am not a rebel.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Describe a rebellious friend using 'Vidrohi'.

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speaking

Explain what 'Vidrohi Tevar' means in Hindi.

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Say: 'The rebel soldiers won.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Pronounce 'विद्रोहियों ने' (Vidrohiyon ne).

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speaking

Say: 'His nature is rebellious.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Ask: 'Are you a rebel?' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'Rebel poets are great.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'The rebel group is strong.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Explain why Mangal Pandey was a 'Vidrohi'.

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speaking

Say: 'Rebellious thoughts are dangerous.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'She is a female rebel.' (using Vidrohini).

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speaking

Say: 'We need a rebellious spirit.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'The film has a rebellious hero.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'Don't be rebellious.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'Rebel voices are loud.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'The rebel leader is coming.' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say: 'Rebellion is in his blood.' in Hindi.

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listening

Listen to the word 'Vidrohi' and identify its meaning.

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listening

Identify 'Vidrohi' in the sentence: 'वह विद्रोही लड़का कहाँ है?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही गुट'.

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listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही तेवर'.

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listening

Identify the noun form in: 'उसने विद्रोह किया।'

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listening

Identify the adjective in: 'विद्रोही कवी ने कविता सुनाई।'

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listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही विचारधारा'.

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Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Identify the gender in: 'वह विद्रोहिनी है।'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोहियों का हमला'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Identify the context: 'विद्रोही सेना ने राजधानी घेरी।'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही स्वभाव'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify the emotion: 'वह बहुत विद्रोही है!' (said angrily).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही सुर'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and write: 'विद्रोही पहचान'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and translate: 'विद्रोही होना ज़रूरी है।'

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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