1. Begin with a reliable AI subtitle tool
   Use Capsai Auto Subtitle Generator to create initial drafts in Marathi and Punjabi. It offers accurate transliteration, editable timing, and supports SRT/VTT exports for seamless integration.
   Link: https://capsai.co/auto-subtitle-generator
   
2. Review regional vocabulary and idioms
   AI may misinterpret local expressions or dialectal words. Have a native speaker check for correct usage of terms like “काय म्हणताय” (Marathi) or “ਕੀ ਹਾਲ ਨੇ” (Punjabi) to maintain authenticity.
   
3. Maintain consistent on-screen timing
   Display each subtitle long enough to read comfortably - around 1.5 to 2 seconds per line. Split longer sentences at natural pauses, keeping captions to two lines of no more than 32 characters each.
   
4. Optimize font, size, and contrast
   Choose legible fonts (e.g., Noto Sans Marathi, Gurmukhi MN) at a size that’s clear on small screens. Add a semi-transparent background or stroke to ensure text stands out against varied video backgrounds.
   
5. Preserve speaker cues and sound effects
   Label speaker changes with tags like “वक्ता:” or “[Speaker 2]:” and include key sounds in brackets (for example, “[ताळी]” or “[ਤਾਲੀਆਂ]”). This improves accessibility and viewer comprehension.
   
6. Encode cultural context in translations
   Some phrases require more than literal translation. For example, translating “timepass” to Marathi as “वेळ घालवणे” may feel too formal; instead use “फिल्मी गप्पा” or colloquial equivalents in Punjabi.
   
7. Leverage subtitle styling templates
   Create branded templates with consistent font styles, colors, and positioning. This speeds up batch processing for series or multi-episode content while reinforcing brand identity.
   
8. Test on multiple devices and platforms
   Preview your subtitled videos on Android, iOS, desktop browsers, and smart TVs to ensure timing, font rendering, and placement work across all screen sizes.
   
9. Embed transcripts for SEO and accessibility
   Add full subtitle transcripts in Marathi and Punjabi to your website or video pages. Search engines index this text, boosting discoverability among regional audiences.
   
10. Stay updated with evolving best practices
    Monitor platform guidelines (YouTube, Instagram, OTT apps) for new subtitle features like auto-scroll, customizable text speed, or interactive transcripts, and adapt your workflow accordingly.

By following these practices, you’ll deliver accurate, culturally resonant Marathi and Punjabi subtitles that enhance viewer engagement and accessibility in 2025.