Uncovering the Rich History and Significance of Dubash - The Interpreters of Mumbai

Dubash (also spelled as Dubashi or Doobash) is a community of people who are believed to be descendants of the original inhabitants of the island of Bombay (now Mumbai), India. The word "dubash" is derived from the Portuguese word "dubas", which means "a native interpreter".

Historically, the dubash were an important social group in Bombay, serving as interpreters and mediators between the colonial Portuguese and the local population. They were known for their proficiency in both Portuguese and Marathi, the local language spoken in the region. Over time, the term "dubash" came to be used to refer to any person who was fluent in both languages, regardless of their ancestry or social background.

Today, the dubash community is a small but significant part of Mumbai's cultural heritage. Many members of the community continue to work as interpreters or translators, while others have pursued careers in fields such as education, law, and business. Despite their historical significance, however, the dubash have faced challenges in preserving their identity and traditions, particularly in the face of rapid urbanization and cultural assimilation.