A Language School Built Around Serious Learning and Human Connection.
Zabaan is a language school founded in New Delhi around a simple idea: language learning should be rigorous, personal, practical, and deeply connected to culture.
Since 2009, students from around the world have studied with Zabaan online and in person—from complete beginners to researchers, diplomats, professionals, heritage learners, and advanced students.
Our Story.
Ali Taqi founded Zabaan after teaching languages in the United States and moving to New Delhi in 2009. The school grew from a focus on serious Hindi and Urdu instruction into a multilingual teaching institution serving students in India and around the world.
The aim has remained consistent: explain language clearly, make students use it actively, and adapt instruction to the learner rather than force every learner through the same path.
Founder, Director & Teacher.
Ali Taqi is originally from Chicago and holds a B.A. in International Studies with a minor in Asian Languages and Literatures from Loyola University Chicago. His teaching interests include Hindi and Urdu grammar, linguistics, semantics, syntax, bilingualism, and language pedagogy. He continues to teach alongside directing Zabaan.
How We Teach.
Good language teaching is not one method repeated for everyone. Zabaan combines structure with flexibility so that grammar, vocabulary, speaking, listening, reading, and writing support the learner’s actual purpose.
Clear Structure.
Grammar and vocabulary are taught systematically so learners understand how the language works.
Active Use.
Lessons are built around speaking, listening, reading, and writing—not passive explanation alone.
Personal Adaptation.
Pace, materials, homework, and emphasis can change according to the student’s goals and progress.
Cultural Context.
Language is taught as something people live through, with attention to culture, register, history, and real usage.
Our New Delhi Centre.
Zabaan’s centre is in East of Kailash, South Delhi. It has four classrooms designed for private and small-group instruction, with a quiet environment for focused study.
Students studying in person can expect a welcoming space, freshly made chai and coffee, and easy access to teachers and coordinators. In-person lessons and visits are arranged by appointment.
Who Studies with Us.
Zabaan works with expatriates, diplomats, university students and professors, researchers, professionals, heritage learners, travelers, families, and lifelong language enthusiasts. Some students study for everyday conversation; others need a language for fieldwork, literature, examinations, professional use, relocation, or long-term cultural engagement.
Student Experiences.
Zulie Morel
4 years ago
As someone who has learned Hindi now for the third time after starting and stopping, this experience with Zabaan has by far exceeded my other language learning experiences. Zabaan has been incredibly accommodating with adjusting to my varying learning styles and preferences, enabling me to try small group classes in person, as well as one-on-one classes virtually, all at times that work well for my schedule. They are incredibly flexible and are always looking to provide students with the best possible learning experience. My teachers Raza, Anshu, and Riya have all worked with me to vastly expand my vocabulary and understanding of grammar, and it’s amazing to see how much my reading comprehension and writing skills have increased as well. Each of them are so talented in making class enjoyable and productive. I’m always able to connect class topics to subjects that I’m personally interested in, and always have so much fun conversing with them. Big cheers to Zabaan for helping me navigate life in India with this beautiful language!
James Toogood
2 years ago
The best school in the world for learning Hindi, without a doubt. I have been learning over the past 1.5 months and can say that my progression has been exponential thanks to the amazing teachers at this school, who are highly professional and make the learning experience seamless. From knowing almost no Hindi at the start 1.5 months ago, I can confidently hold conversation, read news articles, and write Devanagari. Special shoutouts to Tamánna, Jeevika, Anita, Riya, Rachayta and Ali who have all made my experience so special and enriching, I am super grateful to them. Keziah is also great at coordinating everything behind the scenes and changing lessons when needed. Cannot recommend this place enough.
Olivia Walker
8 years ago
The whole Zabaan team was informative, patient, easy to work with. Highly recommend!
Kashif Ahmed
3 years ago
I had such a great experience with Ali and Zabaan. I (American with no Hindi exposure) moved to Delhi for work and lived there for about 8 months. I signed up for Hindi classes right away and they became an integral part of my experience and getting accustomed to life in Delhi. By the end of the 8 months, I was able to read Devanagari script and write basic sentences, as well as have basic conversations with others in Hindi. Learning Hindi also helped me adjust to work as well by better understanding context and culture - even though most of my work was in English, Hindi was still present. It was also great to have the in-person options in Delhi, but also virtual options flexible in timing whenever I was traveling. Ali is an amazing teacher who is both patient and motivating. I learned a a lot about Indian history and culture from him, in addition to some great tips for travel around India. Would highly recommend Zabaan for anyone looking to learn South Asian languages.

Which Language Will You Learn Next?
Explore the languages we teach, meet the team, or start with a free assessment if you already have some experience.