'Hello' is undoubtedly the most appropriate word from the dictionary, when starting a conversation, meeting friends after a long time, or perhaps welcoming people, but do you realize that 'hello' is not simply a greeting word? It also conveys the kind of relationship and feelings you have with the person you are exchanging greetings with. For this reason, we have different ways of saying hello to parents, family members, elderly people, friends, and strangers. In other words, it's more than just a word. And if you greet someone in their mother tongue, it's the cherry on top.
One of the sweetest Indian languages, Gujarati has a special emphasis on words, which makes it even more endearing to speak. So, let me take you through some ways to say ‘hello’ or greet people in the Gujarati language:
Namaste
Let's start with this one, which recently has become a global tradition due to the ongoing pandemic. Gujarat is a land of culture and traditions and shares high respect for its mother tongue. Respecting others is an eccentric feature of Gujaratis. If one has to greet elderly people then the most used phrase is “Namaste” just like in Hindi.
Kem Chho?
“Kem chho” in Gujarati literally means ‘how are you' but is widely used as a way of saying hello or greeting people just like we say “what’s up” in English. Similarly, "Kem chhe" is an informal way to greet your friends.
Jai Shri Krishna
As Gujarat is the land of Dwarkadhish Lord Shri Krishna, people usually greet each other with Jai Shri Krishna. Most Gujaratis like to start conversations with God's name. In the Kathiawadi region of Gujarat, people also greet one another with "Ram Ram" or "Radhe Radhe".
Su chale che!!
When meeting your pals at your favorite ‘adda’ (a regular meeting spot of friends) then you can begin your conversation with the phrase “Su chale chhe!!” meaning ‘what’s up’ or ‘what’s happening’. But be mindful to use it strictly among friends, not in front of elders.
Aavo
Whenever someone visits a home or shop or office, the first word they say is "Aavo" or "Aavo Padharo" which means "welcome" in English or "aaiye" in Hindi.
These are some Gujarati ways of saying hello. So, what are you waiting for? Add these phrases to your word bank and whenever you are in Gujarat or meet a Gujarati, greet them with these phrases and win over their hearts. Saras ne!!! (isn’t it great?)
