Welcome to this guide on how to say “How are you?” in the Newari language. Newari, also known as Nepal Bhasa, is a Tibeto-Burman language spoken by the Newar people in Nepal. It has its own distinct script and is widely used in the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding areas. In this guide, we will explore formal and informal ways of greeting someone in Newari, showcasing regional variations where relevant. Let’s dive in and discover the richness of the Newari language!
Table of Contents
Formal Greetings
In formal situations, it is important to show respect by using the appropriate greetings. Here’s how you can say “How are you?” formally in Newari:
1. Saganaga aapa nalaakha?
Literal Translation: How are you with good health?
This is a commonly used formal greeting in Newari. It shows concern for the other person’s well-being and is often used when addressing elders or people in positions of authority.
2. Dhanyabaad, tapainko sumhaala kasa chha?
Literal Translation: Thank you, how is your good health?
This greeting expresses gratitude and inquires about the well-being of the person you are addressing. It is a polite way to start a conversation in Newari.
Informal Greetings
Informal greetings are used among friends, peers, or people of a similar age group. They provide a more relaxed tone to the conversation. Below are some commonly used informal greetings in Newari:
1. Kasa chau?
Literal Translation: How are you?
This is the simplest and most commonly used way to ask “How are you?” informally in Newari. It’s a casual and friendly greeting suitable for everyday conversations.
2. Saalaa kasa?
Literal Translation: Hey, how are you?
This greeting adds the word “saalaa” as an informal way to address someone. It reflects familiarity and can be used when talking to close friends or people you know well.
Regional Variations
Newari language exhibits some regional variations in the way greetings are expressed. Although the basic meaning remains the same, here are a couple of examples:
1. Classic Newari (Kathmandu Valley): Kasa chau?
Classic Newari is spoken in the Kathmandu Valley and is considered the standard form of Newari. “Kasa chau?” is the most common way to ask “How are you?” in this region.
2. Bhaktapur Variation: Kasa cha?
In Bhaktapur, a city in the Kathmandu Valley, the same greeting is expressed as “Kasa cha?” The word “cha” is a variation used in this region.
Tips for Pronunciation
Pronouncing Newari can be a bit challenging for beginners, but with practice, you can master it. Here are a few tips:
- Pay attention to the tone: Newari is a tonal language, so be mindful of the pitch when pronouncing words.
- Focus on vowel sounds: Newari has unique vowel sounds. Spend some time practicing and listening to native speakers.
- Practice the nasal sounds: Newari has nasal sounds not present in many other languages. It may take time to get used to them.
Examples
Let’s take a look at some examples of using the greetings discussed above:
Example 1:
Person A: Saganaga aapa nalaakha?
Person B: Saganaga nalaakha. Dhanyabaad. Tapainko sumhaala kasa chha?
Example 2:
Person A: Kasa chau?
Person B: Ma theekchhu, ra tapaai?
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have learned the formal and informal ways of saying “How are you?” in the Newari language. Remember to adjust your greetings based on the context and the person you are addressing. Newari is a beautiful language, and by making an effort to speak it, you can show respect and connect with the Newar community. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll become more confident in using Newari greetings in your conversations. Best of luck on your language learning journey!
