350 million Hinglish speakers - and counting

There was an interesting article from the Christian Science Monitor a few years back regarding the rise of the linguistic hybrid known as Hinglish:

It's a bridge between two cultures that has become an island of its own, a distinct hybrid culture for people who aspire to make it rich abroad without sacrificing the sassiness of the mother tongue. And it may soon claim more native speakers worldwide than English.

That last sentence is an intriguing factoid.In order to immerse myself a little deeper into this culture, to better follow these films, read certain music books, etc., I'm teaching myself Hindi and Bengali currently - its a great ride and experience.

The article has generated a good discussion on a BW forum, and the most unusual experience relayed there on this topic is the following:

A friend of mine just came back from Bombay. He went shopping there and spoke in Hindi with all the shopkeepers. Finally while checking out the shop guy told him the total in dollars. So my friend Vijay asked him...how did you know I am from the States? the shop guy said....coz you spoke in Hindi. All the local customers speak English. Only you NRIs speak in Hindi.