The tourism sector in India has witnessed immense growth over the period of time and the year 2012 has been a benchmark with India winning coveted World Travel Award for being ‘World’s Leading Travel Destination’. The country is fast turning into a major driver of growth in global economy with the popularity of destinations like Goa, Kerala, Kashmir, Rajasthan and Gujarat among others. Besides destinations, the gracious hospitality and warm welcome given by the Indian natives is an equally important factor. Till date, Indians follow the ancient principle of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ which says the stature of guest is equivalent to god. In this post, I’m gonna mention a few Hindi phrases with their basic pronunciation that foreign guests can use during their holidays in India.
Namaste (na-mas-tey)
A very commonly used salutation by Indian natives, Namaste is a common cultural practice in India for greeting elders and individuals. It’s not just the spoken word that conveys the warm feelings of the host but the gesture in which welcome is done. A smiling face accompanied with folding hands and slight bowing immediately connects the two hearts. .
Aapse Milke Bahut Accha Laga (Aap-say-mil-kay-bah-ut-a-chha-laga)
It is the Hindi interpretation of English phrase ‘nice to meet you’. It is normally used by a person to express pleasure on meeting an individual. For foreign guests who understand a little bit of Hindi, the phrase clearly gives an indication that Indian natives are extremely happy to meet you and you can build an enduring relationship with beautiful memories.
Shukriya (shuk-riya)
A common Hindi word, Shukriya is generally used to thank somebody for his kind behavior, help and service. It is a word that both guest and host used at various occasions. For example- If you are very much pleased with services offered by hotel staff, you will express gratitude towards your hotel staff with gratuities. Similarly, the hotel staff like butler, bar tender and waiter express thanks after receiving the tip.
I hope these basis Hindi phrases will help all the first time visitors in India. Hindi is a most enjoyable language and widely spoken across India. Basic understanding of the language spoken in tourist place will help you connect with the natives in a friendly manner.
