Why I’m doolally about hullabaloo…

Some words just come up and give you a big smack on the lips when you first meet them. Full of melody and meaning, you can’t help loving them. Words like doolally and hullabaloo – two of the many great words that have made their way into the English language courtesy of India.

You’ll find doolally, hullabaloo and other Inglish wonders in Hobson-Jobson – “a glossary of colloquial Anglo-Indian words and phrases, and of kindred terms etymological, historical, geographical and discursive” compiled by Sir Henry Yule and AC Burnell.

First published in 1886, it’s never been out of print since. Just goes to show, lovable language is also long-lasting language.