Namaste

Namaste is a common greeting in South Asia, particularly in India and Nepal, and in global yoga communities. The term comes from Sanskrit namaste or namaskāra, from namaḥ meaning “obeisance” or “bow” and te meaning “to you.” It is usually translated as “I bow to you” or “the divine in you I honor.”

The gesture associated with Namaste involves pressing the palms together in front of the chest with fingers pointing upward, often accompanied by a slight bow of the head. The gesture is known in yoga as Anjali Mudra and is used in both greeting and farewell, as well as in devotional contexts.

Usage and cultural context: In Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and in Nepalese culture, Namaste is a traditional sign of respect and courtesy. In everyday life, it is used as a polite greeting among friends, family, and strangers. It can serve as a non-contact alternative to a handshake in many social settings. In yoga classes, the gesture is commonly used as an opening or closing gesture, signaling respect and calm.

Variants include Namaskar or Namaskāra, and regional forms may adjust the gesture or accompanying words. While widely used in religious and spiritual contexts, Namaste is not inherently devotional; it is often employed in secular situations as a courteous greeting.

Outside the Indian subcontinent and in Western countries, Namaste has been popularized in media and tourism, where it often conveys cultural acknowledgment or a sense of spiritual ambiance.