India is a fascinating destination for TESOL teachers looking to immerse themselves in a culture that blends ancient traditions with modern innovations. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Manpreet Kaur, an experienced language teacher and IT tutor, to learn more about Patiala, Punjab—a city rich with historical landmarks, culinary delights, and enthusiastic English learners. Below, Manpreet shares her favorite aspects of Patiala and offers tips for those interested in teaching English in India.
Must-Visit Landmarks in Patiala
Shelly: Which landmark is a must for visitors?
Manpreet Kaur: Patiala has many beautiful sites, but the Sheesh Mahal, or ‘Palace of Mirrors,’ is truly unique. Visitors should also see the famous Taj Mahal, which, although located further away in Agra, is a must-see for anyone in India.
The Sheesh Mahal in Patiala, with its intricate mirrorwork and vibrant frescoes, was built during the reign of Maharaja Narinder Singh. It’s a magnificent example of Punjab’s royal heritage and is filled with art and artifacts from India’s rich history. For TESOL teachers, exploring sites like Sheesh Mahal or the Taj Mahal can provide incredible context for English lessons, introducing vocabulary and discussion points on architecture, culture, and history.
Taste of Punjab: Popular Local Dish
Shelly: What is a popular local dish?
Manpreet Kaur: One dish that’s loved across Punjab is Rice Curry. This hearty and flavorful dish combines rice with a rich curry sauce, making it a favorite comfort food.
Rice curry is just one example of Punjab’s diverse cuisine. Known for its use of spices, creamy textures, and fresh ingredients, Punjabi food is both flavorful and filling. Introducing students to terms related to local dishes, like “spices,” “flavor,” and “ingredients,” can be a fun way to explore vocabulary related to food and cooking.
Engaging Activities for English Learners
Shelly: Describe an activity your English learners enjoy!
Manpreet Kaur: My students love working with synonyms! It’s one of their favorite brainstorming activities, as it helps them expand their vocabulary while building confidence in using new words.
Activities like brainstorming synonyms are excellent for vocabulary development and improving fluency. For TESOL teachers, these activities can be as simple as listing words on the board and asking students to come up with similar terms, which helps students think creatively and expand their language skills.
Teaching English in India in 2025: Opportunities and Insights
India offers a dynamic environment for TESOL teachers. With English serving as a second language and a bridge between diverse regional languages, the demand for English language instruction is high, especially in cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Patiala.
Key Insights for Teaching in India:
- Growing Demand for English Teachers: English is crucial in business, technology, and education sectors. Language schools, international schools, and tutoring centers across the country seek native English speakers and certified TESOL teachers to support their students.
- Best Time to Apply: Hiring tends to peak before the start of the academic year in April and again in October. Applying a few months before these dates can increase the chances of securing a teaching position.
- TESOL Certification: Having TESOL certification is highly valued, especially in international and private schools. Many schools in India look for certified teachers who can bring structured methods to English language teaching.
- Embrace Local Customs: Teaching in India is a great opportunity to explore cross-cultural communication. Familiarize yourself with basic Hindi or Punjabi phrases, and be open to experiencing local festivals and traditions. This will help you connect more deeply with your students and colleagues.
Fun Facts about India
- Language Diversity: India has 22 officially recognized languages, and English often serves as a common language among speakers of different mother tongues.
- Festivals: India celebrates many colorful festivals throughout the year, like Diwali (Festival of Lights), Holi (Festival of Colors), and Lohri (celebrated in Punjab). These events provide a perfect backdrop for TESOL teachers to introduce cultural themes in English lessons.
- Home to Bollywood: Bollywood, based in Mumbai, is the world’s largest film industry, producing movies that often blend multiple languages, including English.
- Spice Capital: India is the largest producer of spices in the world, with each region showcasing unique flavors and culinary styles. This can be a fun discussion point in the classroom, sparking conversations about food and culture.
Applying to Teach in Patiala and New Delhi
For TESOL teachers interested in teaching in India, opportunities abound in cities like Patiala and New Delhi. Patiala’s language schools welcome native English-speaking teachers, and New Delhi offers an even broader array of teaching roles in international and private schools. Teaching in India provides a chance to gain diverse classroom experience while making a lasting impact on students eager to improve their English proficiency.
Final Thoughts
Thank you, Manpreet Kaur, for introducing us to the vibrant city of Patiala and sharing your insights on teaching in India. For TESOL teachers, India offers a blend of traditional culture and modern opportunities, creating a rich teaching experience. Whether you’re exploring the stunning Sheesh Mahal, tasting rice curry, or helping students brainstorm synonyms, teaching English in India promises a rewarding journey filled with discovery and connection.
