Survival Phrases for India: Simple Hindi That Actually Helps

English goes a long way in India, but a few words in Hindi change the way conversations feel. People are often surprised at how fast interactions soften when a visitor tries even very basic phrases.

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• Best for: Travelers who do not speak any Indian language yet

• Language focus: Hindi as a practical bridge in many regions

• Goal: Polite greetings, getting around, paying and saying thanks

• Tip: Pronunciation matters more than perfect grammar

Greetings and basic politeness

Start with greetings you will use every day. Namaste (nah-mah-stay) is widely understood as hello and also as a respectful goodbye. Dhanyavaad (dhun-yuh-vaad) means thank you. For yes, say haan (ha-an); for no, nahin (nuh-heen). When addressing older people or anyone you wish to show respect to, adding ji to a name or role, such as "aunty ji" or "sir ji", softens the tone.

Getting around and buying things

For everyday logistics, a small word bank makes a big difference. Kitna? (kit-na) means "how much". Kam karo, please (kumm karo) is a gentle "please make it less" when bargaining is appropriate. Seedha is straight, daayen is right and baayen is left; useful when giving directions to rickshaw drivers. To ask "where is", use kaha hai? (kaha hey) after the place name; for example, "ATM kaha hai?"

Phrases for comfort and safety

A few short sentences help you express needs clearly. Mujhe Hindi thodi thodi aati hai signals that you understand only a little Hindi, which often slows people down. Kripya dheere boliye means "please speak slowly". Mujhe madad chahiye is "I need help". Carrying these phrases in a small notebook or as screenshots on your phone is often enough; people generally appreciate the effort even if pronunciation is not perfect.