Words and ways of greeting in different ethnic groups of Nepal

Introduction

Greetings are of great importance in Nepali society. However, Nepal is a mixed society of 142 ethnic groups, and dozens of languages ​​are spoken here. Therefore, many types of greeting words and ways of greeting are prevalent in each ethnic group in this country. This page will deeply explore ‘Indigenous Greetings in Nepal with words and ways in different ethnic groups.’

Greetings are an indicator of human civilization. This practice not only shows respect but also demonstrates friendship or love. Whether it is a senior relative, a relative, or a friend of one’s own, greeting is considered the first duty upon meeting.

But apart from human society, some animals and birds also have their own ways of greeting each other. Because greetings express spiritual feelings between two or more people and help bring them closer, not greeting when meeting them is considered rude, even in human terms.

Before delving into Indigenous Greetings in Nepal, let’s briefly examine Greetings Culture and Ways in Nepal.

Greetings-Culture, and Ways in Nepal

Greeting is considered compulsory in Nepali society and is directly or indirectly connected to religion and cultural civilization. In most ethnic societies, greetings are understood to be addressed not only to humans but also to the God who resides in humans’ souls. That is why, in Nepal, there is a belief that when greeting, one should bow down slightly as if bowing before God.

In Nepal, different ethnic groups have their own greeting words. In addition, the way of greeting also varies depending on various situations, characters, and ethnic customs. For example, general greetings may differ slightly in religious programs, social programs, situations of meeting relatives, and the way they are used when meeting friends.

In addition, greeting styles vary according to situation and character. For example, greetings are made with two hands clasped, greetings made with one hand raised, and greetings made by bowing the head at the feet of a respected person. More importantly, the practice of greeting people like yourself or friends by shaking hands is also widespread in Nepal.

In Nepal, it is generally customary to greet relatives like parents or similar parents and religious teachers (Guru) by placing one’s head at their feet. At the same time, other respected people are also greeted by putting their hands on the greeter’s heads (taking blessings).

Now, let’s discuss the greeting words used in Nepal. Before delving into indigenous greeting words and ways, we can talk about the common Nepali greeting word, which is most important to know.

1. Common Nepali Greeting: “Namaste (Namaskar)”

Before any caste, a Nepali citizen is a Nepali caste. Therefore, even if you do not know any other words when greeting in Nepal, you can say Namaste or Namaskar. The greeting of Namaste or Namaskar with folded hands is a widespread and universal practice in Nepal.

Knowing the etiquette of saying Namaste or Namaskar in Nepal or how to use this word of greeting is enough. It is unlikely that there is a person in Nepal who does not understand the word. But if you are going to other tribal castes or communities in Nepal and you greet them in their language, hearing it will be a pleasure. It is natural for everyone to like the use of their own language and culture.

The word Namaste or Namaskar, which is widely used in Nepal, is also used in other countries in South Asia, including India, except Nepal. The word may have come from the Sanskrit word “Namah” or “Naman,” which means to bow or respect others. Although “Namaste” is widely used, “Namaskar” is considered more formal. Therefore, both words can be used depending on the situation and the person.

2. Greetings Among Indigenous (Tribal) Communities in Nepal

Nepal has 142 ethnic groups with distinct cultures, languages, and traditions. Let’s now discuss the linguistic words and greeting methods used by different ethnic groups in Nepal. Though unique to each community, these greetings reflect the broader Nepali values of respect, humility, and harmony.

Here are some examples of words and ways (gestures) of greetings from Prominent Indigenous communities of Nepal:

a. Tamang Community

• Greeting Word: “Laso” or “Tashi Delek” (adapted from Tibetan culture).
• Gesture: A polite nod or bow, sometimes with clasped hands.
• Meaning: These phrases wish for peace, well-being, and good fortune, often influenced by Buddhist practices.

b. Sherpa Community

• Greeting Word: “Tashi Delek.”
• Gesture: Hands joined in Anjali Mudra or a respectful bow.
• Meaning: This Tibetan-derived phrase means “blessings and good luck.” It reflects the Sherpa people’s Buddhist ethos and their connection to Tibetan traditions.

c. Gurung (Tamu) Community

• Greeting Word: “Tamu Kayu” or “Tamu Chokpa.”
• Gesture: Hands together in a bow, or sometimes a handshake.
• Meaning: The greeting symbolizes respect and connection within the Gurung culture.

d. Kirant (Rai, Limbu, etc.) Communities

• Greeting Word: “Sewa” and “Sewaro”
• Gesture: A respectful nod or bow with a smile.
• Meaning: “Sewa” and “Sewaro” express respect, goodwill, and hospitality. It is a key part of social interaction in these communities, known for their Kiranti culture and animist beliefs.

e. Tharu Community

• Greeting Word: “Ram Ram” or “Jai Ramji.”
• Gesture: Joining hands or a slight bow.
• Meaning: These greetings reflect the Tharu people’s Hindu influences, or called the name of the god Ram, symbolizing reverence and goodwill.

f. Newar Community

• Greeting Words: “Jwojalapa” or “Namaste.”
• Gesture: A polite bow with palms pressed together or a slight head nod.
• Meaning: “Jwojalapa” means “Hello.” It is specific to Newar culture, which values social harmony and politeness.

g. Magar Community

• Greeting Word: “Jhorle” “Jhedo” “Mejhor”
• Gesture: A nod or handshake, depending on familiarity.
• Meaning: The greetings vary slightly between Magar subgroups but generally convey respect and good wishes.

3. Greetings words and meanings of all ethnic communities of Nepal

As we have already mentioned, there are many ethnic groups in Nepal. Many of them have different cultures, traditions, and languages. Accordingly, their greetings are also different. Since presenting the greetings of each of these ethnic groups in separate paragraphs would increase the size of this page and be boring for the readers, an attempt has been made to include the linguistic words and ways of greeting different ethnic groups in a single table.

If we know that any ethnic greeting is missing from this table, it will be updated again. For now, here is a summary of the greeting words and meanings of different ethnic groups in Nepal:

Notes on the Cultural Significance of Indigenous Greetings in Nepal

• Respect and Reverence: Many greetings reflect respect for others, highlighting the community’s value of harmony and respect for elders.
• Spiritual and Social Context: Several greetings, like “Tashi Delek” and “Namsewal,” carry spiritual undertones, aligning with Buddhist or animist beliefs.
• Community Bonding: Greetings like “Jwojalapa” and “Sewa” emphasize care and mutual well-being, crucial in Nepal’s communal cultures.

Request: It is not easy to fully understand the diverse cultural topics of all ethnic groups in Nepal or present relevant content. Our content may contain factual or grammatical errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. If you find any, please let us know here as soon as possible. We are always ready to accept such suggestions and make improvements.