In this guide, we will explore the different ways to say “goodnight” in the Newari language. Newari is an ancient language spoken by the Newar people in the Kathmandu Valley of Nepal. Known for its rich culture and traditions, Newari has various dialects and variations across different regions. We will cover both formal and informal ways of bidding someone goodnight, and highlight regional variations when necessary. So, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Goodnight
When you want to say “goodnight” in a formal manner, you can use the following phrases:
- “Shubha Ratri” – This is the most common and widely used way of saying “goodnight” in Newari. It can be used in all formal settings, regardless of the region.
- “Shubha Bikarmala” – This phrase is more specifically used in the Kathmandu Valley region. It conveys the same meaning as “goodnight” but is typically used in more formal or traditional contexts.
- “Labhuti Bho” – This phrase, translating to “have a good night,” is commonly used in formal conversations and can be used interchangeably with “Shubha Ratri.”
Informal Ways to Say Goodnight
When you are in a more casual or familiar setting, you can use the following phrases to say “goodnight” in Newari:
- “Ba, khel na” – This phrase, meaning “go play,” is a friendly and informal way of saying “goodnight” among friends or family members. It implies a wish for a good rest and pleasant dreams.
- “Swapna pul gayo” – Literally translating to “enter the dream,” this phrase is used to bid goodnight, specifically emphasizing a hope for sweet dreams.
- “Rati pali bho” – Similar to “Ba, khel na,” this phrase is commonly used among close friends and family members. It signifies a casual and warm way of saying “goodnight.”
Regional Variations
Though Newari is primarily used in the Kathmandu Valley, there are slight variations in the way “goodnight” is expressed across different regions:
Kathmandu Valley
In the Kathmandu Valley region, the most common phrase for saying “goodnight” formally is “Shubha Ratri.” For informal settings, “Ba, khel na” and “Rati pali bho” are popular choices.
Bhaktapur
In Bhaktapur, the phrase “Sukha Swapan” is commonly used to wish someone a “goodnight” in formal settings. For informal settings, “Ba, khel na” and “Rati pali bho” are also widely used.
Patan
In Patan, the phrase “Shubha Ratri” is the standard formal way of saying “goodnight.” In informal situations, “Ba, khel na” and “Swapna pul gayo” are commonly used.
Tips and Examples
Here are some additional tips and examples to help you better understand how to say “goodnight” in Newari:
- When addressing someone older or of higher authority, it is recommended to use the formal phrases like “Shubha Ratri” or “Shubha Bikarmala.”
- For younger individuals or friends, the informal phrases like “Ba, khel na” and “Rati pali bho” are more suitable.
- Remember to maintain a warm and respectful tone while bidding goodnight to someone.
- If you want to specifically wish someone sweet dreams, phrases like “Swapna pul gayo” or “Labhuti Bho Sukumkari Swapna” can be used.
“Swapna pul gayo dukha haru nikai, Shubha Ratri bhandai garnu mai” – This phrase conveys the wish for the person to enter into sweet dreams and have a goodnight despite any troubles they may have faced during the day.
Now that you have learned various ways to say “goodnight” in Newari, feel free to use these phrases in appropriate contexts and make a positive impression with your language skills!
