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Bapak Nam Sag-Pat Aa Betak Nam Paror (70th BPSC Essay)
In rural life, there is a famous saying — “Bapak nam sag-pat aa betak nam paror,” which loosely translates to — “Father’s name is just greens, but son’s name is parwal (pointed gourd).” This proverb humorously but sharply criticizes the attitude of those who, after achieving a little success, start considering their humble roots as insignificant while taking great pride in their own achievements.
Once upon a time in a small village, there lived a simple farmer. He lived a life of honesty, hard work, and simplicity. His son, after studying, moved to the city and got a good job. Slowly, the son started to feel superior. Whenever he returned to his village, he would act like a big officer and treat his father — the simple farmer — with a sense of pity or even contempt. Observing this, an elderly villager remarked sarcastically, “Bapak nam sag-pat, aa betak nam paror!” meaning the father is now seen as mere simple greens, while the son compares himself to the prized vegetable, parwal.
This story is not about a single family; it reflects a larger truth about human behavior. Often, when someone climbs the ladder of success, they tend to forget the sacrifices and struggles of their parents. They start feeling embarrassed about their humble beginnings, forgetting that it was the strong foundation laid by their parents that made their success possible.
In Indian culture, there is a deep-rooted tradition of respecting parents and elders. Teachings like “Matru devo bhava, Pitru devo bhava” (Mother is God, Father is God) are integral parts of our values. However, when the son starts considering himself as special (paror) and the father as ordinary (sag-pat), it shows a serious decline in these values.
Here, “sag-pat” symbolizes simplicity, necessity, and sustenance — simple leafy greens that nourish daily life. “Paror” (parwal) is seen as a special vegetable, often cooked on special occasions, symbolizing pride and distinction. The proverb thus mocks the son’s prideful behavior, highlighting the foolishness of forgetting one’s roots.
Writers like Munshi Premchand have beautifully captured this theme in their works. In “Godaan,” for instance, Gobar, the son of Hori, after moving to the city, begins to distance himself from the humble village life, considering it backward. However, reality later teaches him that true peace and belonging lie in simplicity, not in pretentious urban life.
From a sociological perspective, it’s observed that upward social mobility sometimes causes people to look down upon their origins. But true success is achieved when one remains grounded and respectful towards the foundation on which their life is built.
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam stands as a shining example of this principle. Even after becoming the President of India, he always remembered his humble background, respected his parents, and proudly shared the stories of his modest upbringing. His humility won him the respect and love of millions.
The message of “Bapak nam sag-pat aa betak nam paror” is clear: Success should make a person more humble, not arrogant. A son who respects his father’s struggles and acknowledges the value of their simple life is the one who achieves true greatness. On the contrary, one who mocks his roots often loses his way in pride and superficiality.
Even today, in Indian villages, blessings from elders are considered the most valuable wealth. No matter how educated or wealthy one becomes, the true mark of a successful person is how humbly they bow before their parents and acknowledge their sacrifices.
This proverb is not just about family relationships but holds great relevance in today’s fast-changing world. As modernization and urbanization grow, many young people tend to detach themselves from traditional values. But amidst all change, this saying reminds us that true progress lies in staying connected to our roots and showing gratitude.
Just as a meal is incomplete without simple greens (sag-pat), no life can be truly complete without honoring one’s origins. Parwal may be tasty and special, but it alone cannot nourish a person every day. Likewise, a son’s achievements alone are hollow if they are not built on a foundation of respect and gratitude towards his parents.
In conclusion, “Bapak nam sag-pat aa betak nam paror” is not just a humorous proverb; it is a deep lesson of life. It teaches that simplicity, humility, and gratitude are the real marks of a great life. Success should not make us forget who we are or where we come from. Instead, it should inspire us to honor those who made it possible — especially our parents, who are the real architects of our lives.
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