Vaat lag gayi

Meaning: The literal translation is, "I/we are screwed." It signifies the ultimate realisation and acceptance of defeat. For instance: "We got caught lying; vaat lag gayi!" It can also be used to express extreme tiredness. "I did so many Zoom meetings today, ki vaat lag gayi." Having been born in Mumbai, it's tough to recollect the first time I heard it, but I must have definitely said it the first time after appearing for a history exam. It's also commonly heard after one gets off a crowded local train on a hot summer day.

Mehak Mirza Prabhu is a storyteller, writer and mentor