खम्मा घणी
khamma ghani
The Marwari greeting namaste is expressed as खम्मा घणी (khamma ghani).
खम्मा घणी is a culturally specific and more respectful way to greet someone in Marwari-speaking regions.
Meaning: a greeting (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of khamma (forgiveness/blessings) and ghani (much/plenty), literally meaning 'many blessings' or 'much forgiveness'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Namaskar is a formal greeting in Marwari. Pranam is a formal way to say Namaste in Marwari. Additionally, Jai Jinendra is a greeting commonly used by members of the Jain community in Marwari.
Is it said differently in some regions?
खम्मा घणी is a signature greeting used specifically in the Marwari-speaking areas of Rajasthan, India.
How do you pronounce it?
khamma ghani
When do people say it?
When someone greets you with खम्मा घणी, the standard polite response is घणी खम्मा.
Did you know?
- The phrase carries a weight of humility, as the root word implies a state of being at the mercy or under the protection of the other person.
- In many Marwari social circles, the greeting is often accompanied by a slight bow or a touching of the feet to show deep respect to elders.
- The word घणी meaning 'much' is a characteristic marker of the Marwari language, distinguishing it from the standard Hindi word 'बहुत' ('bahut').
Examples in context
- खम्मा घणी।khamma ghani.Greetings.
- सा, खम्मा घणी!sa, khamma ghani!Greetings, sir!
Example conversation
Seema and Suresh meet at a family gathering.
- सीमा Seemaसुरेश जी, खम्मा घणी।Suresh ji, khamma ghani.Mr. Suresh, greetings.
- सुरेश Sureshसीमा जी, खम्मा घणी।Seema ji, khamma ghani.Ms. Seema, greetings.
- सीमा Seemaआप कैसे हो?Aap kaise ho?How are you?
- सुरेश Sureshमैं ठीक हूँ, धन्यवाद।Main theek hoon, dhanyavad.I am fine, thank you.
