खम्मा घणी
khamma ghani
The Rajasthani word for "namaste" is खम्मा घणी (khamma ghani).
While "namaste" is a general greeting used across many parts of India, खम्मा घणी is the culturally specific way to greet someone in Rajasthan.
Meaning: a greeting (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase खम्मा घणी is composed of khamma, meaning "forgiveness" or "pardon" and ghani, meaning "much" or "many".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
खम्मा घणी is a polite and respectful greeting used to show honor to the person being addressed.
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?
- In royal circles of Rajasthan, खम्मा घणी was traditionally used by subjects when addressing the Maharaja or members of the royal family.
- The phrase has become so iconic that it is frequently used in Bollywood songs and folk music to instantly signal a Rajasthani setting to the audience.
- While khamma ghani is a respectful greeting, it literally functions as a request for 'much forgiveness', implying a humble stance before the listener.
Examples in context
- खम्मा घणी, सा।khamma ghani, sa.Greetings, sir.
- हुकुम, खम्मा घणी।hukum, khamma ghani.Greetings, my lord.
- आपणा ने खम्मा घणी।aapna ne khamma ghani.Greetings to you all.
Example conversation
Ramesh and Seema meet in a village square.
- रमेश Rameshखम्मा घणी, सीमा!Khamma ghani, Seema!Hello, Seema!
- सीमा Seemaखम्मा घणी, रमेश सा!Khamma ghani, Ramesh sa!Hello, Mr. Ramesh!
- रमेश Rameshआप कठा जा रहे हो?Aap katha ja rahe ho?Where are you going?
- सीमा Seemaमैं बाजार जा रही हूँ।Main bazaar ja rahi hoon.I am going to the market.
