# Namaste

> Mediated Wiki article. Canonical URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Namaste
> Markdown URL: https://mediated.wiki/source/Namaste.md
> Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namaste
> Source revision: 1354407988
> License: Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/)

Customary Hindu greeting

For the Better Call Saul episode, see [Namaste (Better Call Saul)](/source/Namaste_(Better_Call_Saul)).

Pressing hands together with a smile to greet *namaste* – a common cultural gesture in India

***Namaste*** (Sanskrit pronunciation: [\[nɐmɐsteː\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:IPA/Sanskrit),[1] [Devanagari](/source/Devanagari): नमस्ते), sometimes called ***namaskār*** and ***namaskāram***, is a customary [Hindu](/source/Hindus)[2][3][4] manner of respectfully [greeting](/source/Greeting) and honouring a person or group, used at any time of day.[5] It is used by people of the Hindu, Buddhist and Jain traditions. *Namaste* is usually spoken with a slight bow and hands pressed together, palms touching and fingers pointing upwards, thumbs close to the chest. This gesture is *[Añjali Mudrā](/source/A%C3%B1jali_Mudr%C4%81)*; the standing [posture in modern yoga](/source/Yoga_as_exercise) that incorporates it is ***pranāmāsana***.[6]

## Etymology, meaning and origins

*Namaste* (*Namas* + *te*) is derived from [Sanskrit](/source/Sanskrit) and is a combination of the word *namas* and the second person [dative](/source/Dative) pronoun in its [enclitic](/source/Enclitic) form, *[te](/source/Sanskrit_pronouns_and_determiners#First-_and_second-person_pronouns)*.[7] The word *namaḥ* takes the [form](/source/Sandhi) *namas* before the sound *te*.[8][9]

It is found in the Vedic literature. *Namas-krita* and related terms appear in the Hindu scripture *[Rigveda](/source/Rigveda)* such as in the *Vivaha Sukta*, verse 10.85.22[10] in the sense of "worship, adore", while *Namaskara* appears in the sense of "exclamatory adoration, homage, salutation and worship" in the *[Atharvaveda](/source/Atharvaveda)*, the *Taittiriya Samhita*, and the *Aitareya Brahmana*. It is an expression of veneration, worship, reverence, an "offering of homage" and "adoration" in the Vedic literature and post-Vedic texts such as the *Mahabharata*.[11][12] The phrase *Namas-te* appears with this meaning in *Rigveda* 8.75.10,[13] *Atharvaveda* verse 6.13.2, *Taittirya Samhita* 2.6.11.2 and in numerous other instances in many early Hindu texts.[14] It is also found in numerous ancient and medieval era sculpture and *mandapa* relief artwork in [Hindu temples](/source/Hindu_temple).[15]

According to the Indologist Stephen Phillips, the terms "*te* and *tvam*" are an informal, familiar form of "you" in Sanskrit, and it is typically not used for unfamiliar adults. It is reserved for someone familiar, intimate, divine or a child.[16][17] By using the dative form of *tvam* in the greeting *Namas-te*, there is an embedded secondary, metaphorical sense in the word. This is the basis of the pragmatic meaning of *Namas-te*, that is "salutations to the (divine) child (in your heart)", states Phillips.[16]

In the contemporary era, *namaḥ* means 'bow', 'obeisance', 'reverential salutation' or 'adoration'[18] and *te* means 'to you' (singular [dative case](/source/Dative_case) of 'tvam'). Therefore, *namaste* literally means "bowing to you".[19] In [Hinduism](/source/Hinduism), it also has a spiritual import reflecting the belief that "the divine and self ([atman](/source/Atman_(Hinduism)), Self) is same in you and me", and connotes "I bow to the divine in you".[20][5][21] According to the sociologist Holly Oxhandler, it is a Hindu term which means "the sacred in me recognizes the sacred in you".[22]

A less common variant is used in the case of three or more people being addressed namely *Namo vaḥ* which is a combination of *namaḥ* and the enclitic second person plural pronoun *vaḥ*.[7] The word *namaḥ* takes the [sandhi](/source/Sandhi) form *namo* before the sound *v*.[8] An even less common variant is used in the case of two people being addressed, namely, *Namo vām*, which is a combination of *namaḥ* and the enclitic second person [dual](/source/Dual_(grammatical_number)) pronoun *vām*.[7]

Excavations at [Indus Valley Civilisation](/source/Indus_Valley_Civilisation) sites have found male and female terracotta figures in a posture like Añjali Mudrā.[23][24] These archaeological findings are dated to the [Mature Harappan](/source/Periodisation_of_the_Indus_Valley_civilisation).[25][26]

	- Añjali Mudrā in historic Hindu temple reliefs

		- Hindu god Kubera on the left with a person in [Añjali Mudrā](/source/A%C3%B1jali_Mudr%C4%81) (13th century [Chennakesava Temple, Somanathapura](/source/Chennakesava_Temple%2C_Somanathapura), [Karnataka](/source/Karnataka)).

		- Entrance pillar relief ([Thrichittatt Maha Vishnu Temple](/source/Thrichittatt_Maha_Vishnu_Temple), [Kerala](/source/Kerala)).

## Anjali mudra

Main article: [Añjali Mudrā](/source/A%C3%B1jali_Mudr%C4%81)

The gesture of folding hands during a namaste is called the *[Añjali Mudrā](/source/A%C3%B1jali_Mudr%C4%81)*.[27] In addition to *namaste*, this *mudra* is one of the postures found in Indian classical dance such as [Bharatanatyam](/source/Bharatanatyam),[28] and in yoga practice.[29] It is widely found in Indian temple reliefs and sculpture in mandapam, at entrances and iconography such as the Lingobhavamurti of [Shaivism](/source/Shaivism).[30][31] The Anjali mudra differs from namaste by being a non-verbal gesture, while namaste can be said with or without any gesture. According to Bhaumik and Govil, the Anjali mudra and Namaskara mudra are very similar but have a subtle difference. The back of the thumbs in Anjali mudra face the chest and are perpendicular to other fingers, while the thumbs in Namaskara mudra are aligned with the other fingers.[32]

Anjali mudra is described in Sanskrit texts such as in verse 9.127–128 of the *[Natya Shastra](/source/Natya_Shastra)* (200 BCE – 200 CE), in temple architecture texts dated after the sixth-century CE such as in verse 5.67 of the *Devata murti prakarana* and those on painting called the *Citrasutras*. The *Natya Shastra*, a classical Indian dance text, describes it to be a posture where the two hands are folded together in a reverential state and that this is used to pray before a deity, receive any person one reveres and also to greet friends. The *Natya Shastra* further states that for prayers inside a temple, the Anjali mudra should be placed near one's head or above, while meeting someone venerable it is placed in front of one's face or chin, and for friends near one's chest.[33][34]

## Uses

### Greeting

Añjali Mudrā is widely used throughout the Indian subcontinent, parts of Asia and beyond where people of South and Southeast Asian origins have migrated.[20] *Namaste* is a respectful form of greeting, acknowledging and welcoming a relative, guest or stranger.[35] In some contexts, *namaste* is used by one person to express gratitude for assistance offered or given, and to thank the other person for their generous kindness.[36]

Since namaste is a non-contact form of greeting, some world leaders adopted the gesture as an alternative to hand shaking during the [2020 Coronavirus pandemic](/source/COVID-19_pandemic) as a means to prevent the spread of the virus.[37][38]

	- World leaders adopting Namaste during [COVID-19](/source/COVID-19)

### Hindu veneration practice

*Namaskara* is one of the 16 *[upacharas](/source/Upachara)* (veneration practices) used in temples and places of formal [puja](/source/Puja_(Hinduism)) (worship).[39] *Namaste* in the context of deity worship, scholars conclude,[40][41] has the same function as in greeting a guest or anyone else. It expresses politeness, courtesy, honor, and hospitality from one person to the other. It is used in goodbyes as well. This is sometimes expressed, in ancient Hindu scriptures such as [Taittiriya Upanishad](/source/Taittiriya_Upanishad), as [Atithi Devo Bhava](/source/Atithi_Devo_Bhava) (literally, treat the guest like a god).[42][43] *Namaskara* is one of the six forms of [pranāma](/source/Pran%C4%81ma), and in parts of India these terms are used synonymously.[44][45]

		- A Hindu man making the Añjali Mudrā

		- The ninth line from the top, last word in the *Rigveda* manuscript above is *namas* in the sense of "reverential worship"

		- *Wai* gesture in a Thai temple

		- *Yakshi salabhanjika*, c. 100 BCE, Satna, [Madhya Pradesh](/source/Madhya_Pradesh)

		- Statue in Bali, Indonesia

### In modern yoga

Further information: [Yoga and cultural appropriation](/source/Yoga_and_cultural_appropriation)

It's the end of a typical yoga class. The teacher sits cross-legged, takes their hands in a prayer position, and reverently intones *namaste*. Dutiful students whisper *namaste* in unison in return without understanding the meaning of namaste.[27]

'Namaste' has been adopted in modern [yoga as exercise](/source/Yoga_as_exercise) as a respectful word, spoken in unison at the end of a class, or by a solitary practitioner as a personal meditation; from there, it has become a T-shirt slogan.[27] The Indian-born journalist Neha Tandon writes that nobody "buys a 'Namaste in bed' shirt with ill intentions", though in her view that does not excuse what she considers to be the evident [cultural appropriation](/source/Yoga_and_cultural_appropriation).[46] The British Pakistani yoga teacher Nadia Gilani writes that the western pronunciation "nama-stay" is incorrect; South Asians pronounce it "num us teh", while the association of 'namaste' with yoga is a modern western invention.[47] Rita Geno, writing in *[Yoga Journal](/source/Yoga_Journal)*, calls the usage "at the very least, puzzling"; it quotes the Indian [yoga therapist](/source/Yoga_as_therapy) Susanna Barkataki as saying it's a "rather formal" greeting, reserved for teachers and elders; it is not used to at a parting. Geno suggests that usage may be changing, quoting the author Deepak Singh as saying that the greeting was given to "every tourist" when he visited Rajasthan.[27] On the other hand, T-shirt puns like "Nama'stay in bed" or "Namaslay" are, Geno writes, straightforwardly offensive, misusing a "respectful and spiritually resonant" term.[27] As for use in a yoga class, the Indian American yoga teacher Aadil Palkhivala suggests that Namaste and Añjali Mudrā could be used both at the start, as a respectful greeting, and at the end, in gratitude and connection.[27]

	- In modern [yoga as exercise](/source/Yoga_as_exercise)

		- The modern yoga guru [Sharon Gannon](/source/Sharon_Gannon), co-founder of [Jivamukti Yoga](/source/Jivamukti_Yoga), making the Añjali Mudrā

		- 'Namaste' has been adopted in modern [yoga as exercise](/source/Yoga_as_exercise) as a respectful word, and less appropriately as a T-shirt slogan.[27]

## See also

- [Culture of India](/source/Culture_of_India)

- [Gassho](/source/Buddhist_terms_and_concepts#G)

- [Sampeah](/source/Sampeah)

- [Sat Sri Akal](/source/Sat_Sri_Akal)

- [Sembah](/source/Sembah)

- [Wai](/source/Thai_greeting)

## References

1. **[^](#cite_ref-1)** ["namaste"](https://www.oed.com/search/dictionary/?q=namaste). *[Oxford English Dictionary](/source/Oxford_English_Dictionary)* (online ed.). Oxford University Press. (Subscription or [participating institution membership](https://www.oed.com/public/login/loggingin#withyourlibrary) required.). The British pronunciation is either /ˈnaməsteɪ/ or /naməˈsteɪ/, and the American is /ˈˌnɑməˈˌsteɪ/.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-2)** ["How 'Namaste' Entered The English Language"](https://www.merriam-webster.com/words-at-play/the-history-of-namaste). *www.merriam-webster.com*. Retrieved 18 August 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-3)** ["Why 'namaste' has become the perfect pandemic greeting"](https://religionnews.com/2020/10/01/why-namaste-has-become-the-perfect-pandemic-greeting/). *Religion News Service*. 1 October 2020. Retrieved 18 August 2021.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-4)** ["Here's the history behind these no-touch greetings"](https://web.archive.org/web/20210413010919/https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/ways-people-around-world-say-hello-without-touching-coronavirus). *Travel*. 23 March 2020. Archived from [the original](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/ways-people-around-world-say-hello-without-touching-coronavirus) on 13 April 2021. Retrieved 18 August 2021.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-kvsingh_5-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-kvsingh_5-1) Singh, K. V. (2015). [*Hindu Rites and Rituals: Origins and Meanings*](https://books.google.com/books?id=uzoHCwAAQBAJ&pg=PT123). Penguin Books. pp. 123–124. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0143425106](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0143425106). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20191217193907/https://books.google.com/books?id=uzoHCwAAQBAJ&pg=PT123) from the original on 17 December 2019. Retrieved 20 May 2017.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-6)** Chatterjee, Gautam (2001). [*Sacred Hindu Symbols*](https://books.google.com/books?id=NQ0XQHEkuIcC). Abhinav Publications. pp. 47–48. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [9788170173977](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9788170173977). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170111165355/https://books.google.com/books?id=NQ0XQHEkuIcC) from the original on 11 January 2017. Retrieved 28 December 2017.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-fm_7-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-fm_7-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-fm_7-2) Burrow, Thomas . *The Sanskrit Language*, pp. 263–268

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-fn_8-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-fn_8-1) Burrow, Thomas *The Sanskrit Language*, pp. 100–102

1. **[^](#cite_ref-9)** [Namah](http://sanskritdictionary.org/namah) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140827185125/http://sanskritdictionary.org/namah) 2014-08-27 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine) Sanskrit Dictionary

1. **[^](#cite_ref-10)** "उदीर्ष्वातो विश्वावसो **नमसेळा महे त्वा** । अन्यामिच्छ प्रफर्व्यं सं जायां पत्या सृज [॥२२॥](https://sa.wikisource.org/s/139l), Griffith translates it as, "Rise up from hence, Visvavasu, **with reverence we worship thee**. Seek thou another willing maid, and with her husband leave the bride; [RV, Griffith, Wikisource](https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_Rig_Veda/Mandala_10/Hymn_85) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200105034457/https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_Rig_Veda/Mandala_10/Hymn_85) 2020-01-05 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine); other instances include RV 9.11.6 and many other Vedic texts; for a detailed list, see Maurice Bloomfield, [Vedic Concordance](https://archive.org/stream/vedicconcordance00bloouoft#page/532/mode/2up) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190331215229/https://archive.org/stream/vedicconcordance00bloouoft#page/532/mode/2up) 2019-03-31 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine), Harvard University Press

1. **[^](#cite_ref-11)** Monier-Williams, Monier. [Sanskrit-English Dictionary with Etymology Namas](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=528) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190518095046/https://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/servepdf.php?page=528) 2019-05-18 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine), Oxford University Press, p. 528

1. **[^](#cite_ref-12)** [namas](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/indexcaller.php?input=HK&output=SktRomanUnicode&citation=caraka) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20181006195739/http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/scans/MWScan/2014/web/webtc/indexcaller.php?input=HK&output=SktRomanUnicode&citation=caraka) 2018-10-06 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine), Monier-Williams Sanskrit-English Dictionary 1899 edition], Harvard University update (2008)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-13)** [RV 8.75.10, Wikisource](https://sa.wikisource.org/s/13ky): **नमस्ते** अग्न ओजसे गृणन्ति देव कृष्टयः । Translation: "**Homage to** your power, Agni! The separate peoples hymn you, o god." Translators: Stephanie Jamison & Joel Brereton (2014), *The Rigveda*, Volume 2 of three, Oxford University Press, [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-01-99363-780](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-01-99363-780), p. 1172

1. **[^](#cite_ref-14)** Maurice Bloomfield, [Vedic Concordance](https://archive.org/stream/vedicconcordance00bloouoft#page/532/mode/2up) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20190331215229/https://archive.org/stream/vedicconcordance00bloouoft#page/532/mode/2up) 2019-03-31 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine), [Harvard University Press](/source/Harvard_University_Press), pp. 532–533

1. **[^](#cite_ref-15)** Nambiar, A. K. Krishna (1979). [*Namaste: Its Philosophy and Significance in Indian Culture*](https://books.google.com/books?id=vOwtAAAAMAAJ). pp. vii–viii with listed pages. [OCLC](/source/OCLC_(identifier)) [654838066](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/654838066). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200101062638/https://books.google.com/books?id=vOwtAAAAMAAJ) from the original on 1 January 2020. Retrieved 2 November 2018.

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-phillips2009p272_16-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-phillips2009p272_16-1) Phillips, Stephen H. (2009). [*Yoga, Karma, and Rebirth: A Brief History and Philosophy*](https://books.google.com/books?id=cRg2AAAAQBAJ). [Columbia University Press](/source/Columbia_University_Press). p. 272 note 26. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-231-51947-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-231-51947-2).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-17)** This is similar to *[tu / vous](/source/T%E2%80%93V_distinction)* of French and Romance languages in Europe, states the Indologist [Patrick Olivelle](/source/Patrick_Olivelle), see: Olivelle, Patrick (2005). [*Manu's Code of Law*](https://books.google.com/books?id=PnHo02RtONMC). [Oxford University Press](/source/Oxford_University_Press). pp. 346 note 11.205. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-19-517146-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-19-517146-4).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-18)** "Cologne Digital Sanskrit Lexicon". [*Cologne Digital Sanskrit Dictionaries*](https://web.archive.org/web/20130925085740/http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/tamil/recherche?dictionary=mwd&st=namas&prst=exact&en=&pren=exact&maxhits=50) (search results). [University of Cologne](/source/University_of_Cologne). Archived from [the original](http://www.sanskrit-lexicon.uni-koeln.de/cgi-bin/tamil/recherche?dictionary=mwd&st=namas&prst=exact&en=&pren=exact&maxhits=50) on 25 September 2013. Retrieved 24 March 2012..

1. **[^](#cite_ref-19)** [Namaste](http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=namaste&searchmode=none) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140302231046/http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?allowed_in_frame=0&search=namaste&searchmode=none) 2014-03-02 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine) Douglas Harper, Etymology Dictionary

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-ying_20-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-ying_20-1) Ying, Y. W., Coombs, M., & Lee, P. A. (1999), "Family intergenerational relationship of Asian American adolescents", *Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology*, 5(4), pp. 350–363

1. **[^](#cite_ref-21)** Lawrence, J. D. (2007), "The Boundaries of Faith: A Journey in India", *Homily Service*, 41(2), pp. 1–3

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Oxhandlerp168_22-0)** Oxhandler, Holly (2017). ["Namaste Theory: A Quantitative Grounded Theory on Religion and Spirituality in Mental Health Treatment"](https://doi.org/10.3390%2Frel8090168). *Religions*. **8** (9): 168. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.3390/rel8090168](https://doi.org/10.3390%2Frel8090168).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-23)** Sharma, Deo Prakash; Sharma, Madhuri (2003). *Panorama of Harappan Civilization*. Noida: Devangana Prakashan. p. 129. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-81-7479-057-6](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-81-7479-057-6).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-24)** ["Origins of Hinduism"](http://www.hinduismtoday.com/archives/2007/4-6/pdf/Hinduism-Today_Apr-May-Jun_2007.pdf) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140226231134/http://www.hinduismtoday.com/archives/2007/4-6/pdf/Hinduism-Today_Apr-May-Jun_2007.pdf) 2014-02-26 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine). *[Hinduism Today](/source/Hinduism_Today)*, Volume 7, Issue 2 (April/May/June), Chapter 1, p. 3

1. **[^](#cite_ref-25)** [Seated Male in Namaskar pose](http://nationalmuseumindia.gov.in/prodCollections.asp?pid=36&id=1&lk=dp1) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20140223014905/http://nationalmuseumindia.gov.in/prodCollections.asp?pid=36&id=1&lk=dp1) 2014-02-23 at the [Wayback Machine](/source/Wayback_Machine) [National Museum of India](/source/National_Museum_of_India) (2012)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-26)** Kalyanaraman, Srinivasan (2010). *Indus Script Cipher*. Srinivasan Kalyanaraman. pp. 234–236. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-9828971-0-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-9828971-0-2).

1. ^ [***a***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-0) [***b***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-1) [***c***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-2) [***d***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-3) [***e***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-4) [***f***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-5) [***g***](#cite_ref-YJ_meaning_of_namaste_27-6) Geno, Rita (24 March 2024) [14 June 2021]. ["The Meaning of Namaste"](https://www.yogajournal.com/practice/beginners/the-meaning-of-namaste/). *Yoga Journal*. Retrieved 30 March 2026.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Anami_Bhandage31021–31040_28-0)** Anami, Basavaraj S.; Bhandage, Venkatesh A. (4 June 2018). "A vertical-horizontal-intersections feature based method for identification of bharatanatyam double hand mudra images". *Multimedia Tools and Applications*. **77** (23). Springer Science: 31021–31040. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1007/s11042-018-6223-y](https://doi.org/10.1007%2Fs11042-018-6223-y). [S2CID](/source/S2CID_(identifier)) [46968377](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:46968377).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-CarrollCarroll2012_29-0)** Carroll, C.; Carroll, R. (2012). [*Mudras of India: A Comprehensive Guide to the Hand Gestures of Yoga and Indian Dance*](https://books.google.com/books?id=Fn_c9wbLIeAC&pg=PA44). SD Publishers. pp. 44–46. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-85701-067-4](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-85701-067-4).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-30)** Barrett, Douglas (1964). "An Early Cola Lingodbhavamurti". *[The British Museum Quarterly](/source/British_Museum_Quarterly)*. **28** (1/2 (Summer)): 32–39. [JSTOR](/source/JSTOR_(identifier)) [4422848](https://www.jstor.org/stable/4422848).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-31)** Kramrisch, Stella (1957). "Indian Sculpture Newly Acquired". *[Philadelphia Museum of Art](/source/Philadelphia_Museum_of_Art) Bulletin*. **52** (252): 30–38 with Figures 2 and 3. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.2307/3795036](https://doi.org/10.2307%2F3795036). [JSTOR](/source/JSTOR_(identifier)) [379036](https://www.jstor.org/stable/379036).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-BhaumikGovil2020_32-0)** Bhaumik, Gopa; Govil, Mahesh Chandra (2020). "Buddhist Hasta Mudra Recognition Using Morphological Features". *Communications in Computer and Information Science*. Singapore: Springer Singapore. pp. 356–364. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1007/978-981-15-6315-7_29](https://doi.org/10.1007%2F978-981-15-6315-7_29). [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-981-15-6314-0](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-981-15-6314-0). [ISSN](/source/ISSN_(identifier)) [1865-0929](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1865-0929). [S2CID](/source/S2CID_(identifier)) [225349190](https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:225349190).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-33)** Nardi, Isabella (2003). *The Theory of Indian Painting: the Citrasutras, their Uses and Interpretations*. SOAS, University of London. pp. 132–134, 273 Figure 67.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-34)** Brandon, James R. (2009). *Theatre in Southeast Asia*. [Harvard University Press](/source/Harvard_University_Press). pp. 137–139. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0674028746](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0674028746).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-jonesryan_35-0)** Jones, Constance; Ryan, James D. "Namaste". *Encyclopedia of Hinduism*. p. 302. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-8160-5458-9](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-8160-5458-9).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-36)** Shaules, Joseph (2007). *Deep Culture: The Hidden Challenges of Global Living*. pp. 68–70. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1847690166](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1847690166).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-37)** ["Coronavirus: Indian greeting namaste goes global"](https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-asia-india-51854798). *BBC*. 13 March 2020. Retrieved 13 October 2023.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-38)** ["Greet the Indian way: Israeli PM urges citizens to adopt 'Namaste' instead of handshakes to avoid COVID-19"](https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/greet-the-indian-way-israeli-pm-urges-citizens-to-adopt-namaste-instead-of-handshakes-to-avoid-covid/561118). *www.timesnownews.com*. 5 March 2020. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200312033101/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/greet-the-indian-way-israeli-pm-urges-citizens-to-adopt-namaste-instead-of-handshakes-to-avoid-covid/561118) from the original on 12 March 2020. Retrieved 29 March 2020.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-39)** Viswanatha, S. V. (21 August 2013). [*Racial Synthesis in Hindu Culture*](https://books.google.com/books?id=ufOAAAAAQBAJ&dq=namaskara+upachara&pg=PA209). Routledge. p. 209. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-136-38420-2](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-136-38420-2).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-40)** Lochtefeld, James. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Volume 2, [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [0-8239-2287-1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0-8239-2287-1), 720 pp.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-41)** Fuller, C. J. (2004), *The Camphor Flame: Popular Hinduism and Society in India*, Princeton, New Jersey: [Princeton University Press](/source/Princeton_University_Press), pp. 66–70, [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-0-691-12048-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0-691-12048-5)

1. **[^](#cite_ref-42)** Kelkar, Mayuresh (30 September 2010). "SERVDIV: A Vedic Approach to Measurement of Service Quality". *Services Marketing Quarterly*. **31** (4): 420–433. [doi](/source/Doi_(identifier)):[10.1080/15332969.2010.510722](https://doi.org/10.1080%2F15332969.2010.510722). [ISSN](/source/ISSN_(identifier)) [1533-2969](https://search.worldcat.org/issn/1533-2969).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-43)** de Nobili, Roberto (2000). *Preaching Wisdom to the Wise*. Saint Louis, Missouri: Institute of Jesuit Sources. p. 132. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-880810-37-8](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-880810-37-8).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-44)** Mehrotra, R. R. (1995). "How to be polite in Indian English". *International Journal of the Sociology of Language*. **116** (1): 99–110.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-45)** Chatterjee, G. (2003). *Sacred Hindu Symbols*. [Abhinav Publications](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Abhinav_Publications&action=edit&redlink=1). pp. 47–49. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-8170173977](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-8170173977).

1. **[^](#cite_ref-Tandon_2022_46-0)** Tandon, Neha (27 May 2022). ["You Can Have A Profound, Spiritual Yoga Practice *Without* Culturally Appropriating It. Here's How"](https://www.womenshealthmag.com/fitness/a39879689/cultural-appropriation-yoga/). [Women's Health](/source/Women's_Health_(magazine)). Retrieved 15 December 2022.

1. **[^](#cite_ref-47)** Gilani, Nadia (2022). *Yoga Manifesto: how Yoga Helped Me and Why it Needs to Save Itself*. Bluebird. pp. 254–256. [ISBN](/source/ISBN_(identifier)) [978-1-5290-6510-7](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-1-5290-6510-7). [OCLC](/source/OCLC_(identifier)) [1284981202](https://search.worldcat.org/oclc/1284981202).

## External links

Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Namaste](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Namaste).

Look up ***[namaste](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Special:Search/namaste)*** in Wiktionary, the free dictionary.

- [The Meaning of Namaste](http://www.yogajournal.com/article/beginners/the-meaning-of-quot-namaste-quot/) *Yoga Journal*

- [*Saying goodbye in different languages- Namaste*](https://proreaders.in/bye-full-form/)

- [Modes of Greetings in Kashmiri](http://iils.org/pdf/ModesofGreetings.pdf), Indian Institute of Language Studies

- [Ancient Indus Valley Seal print showing Namaste/anjali mudra](https://web.archive.org/web/20071226125638/http://www.csuchico.edu/~cheinz/syllabi/asst001/fall97/2chd.htm), CSU Chico

v t e Gestures Friendly gestures Air kiss Applause Biker wave Cheek kiss Dap Elbow bump Eskimo kiss Finger heart Fist bump Forehead kiss Hand heart Handshake Hand wave High five Hongi ILY sign Kiss Liberian snap handshake Lip kiss Namaste Okay sign Pinky swear Pound hug Shaka Thumb signal Gestures of respect Adab Añjali Mudrā Bow Canonical digits Curtsy Fist-and-palm Gadaw Genuflection Hand-kiss Hat tip Kowtow Kuji-in Mano Mudra Namaste Ojigi Orans Pranāma Prostration Sampeah Sembah Schwurhand Wai Zolgokh Salutes Bellamy Nazi Raised fist Roman Scout sign and salute Three-finger pro-democracy Serbian Two-finger Vulcan Wolf Zogist Celebratory gestures Applause Crossed hands Fist pump High five Low five Victory clasp V sign Finger-counting Chinese number gestures Chisanbop Finger binary Obscene gestures Anasyrma Bras d'honneur Fig sign Middle finger Mooning Mountza Nazi salute Reversed V sign Shocker Sign of the horns Wanker Taunts Akanbe Loser Talk to the hand Thumbing one's nose Head motions Head bobble Head shake Nod Other gestures Air quotes Allergic salute Arm folding Aussie salute Awkward turtle Che vuoi? Crossed fingers Distress signal Duterte fist Eyelid pull Facepalm Finger gun Gang sign Hand-in-waistcoat Hand rubbing Jazz hands Laban sign Merkel-Raute Pointing Pollice verso Shrug Sign of the cross Lesser sign of the cross Related List of gestures Articulatory gestures Finger pinching conspiracy theory Hand signals Manual communication Mudra Nonverbal communication Sign language

v t e Hinduism topics Glossary Index Timeline Philosophy Concepts Brahman Om Ishvara Atman Maya Karma Saṃsāra Puruṣārthas Dharma Artha Kama Moksha Niti Ahimsa Asteya Aparigraha Brahmacharya Satya Dāna Damah Dayā Akrodha Schools Āstika: Samkhya Yoga Nyaya Vaisheshika Mīmāṃsā Vedanta Svābhāvika Bhedābheda Dvaita Advaita Vishishtadvaita Nāstika: Charvaka Texts Classification Śruti Smṛti Vedas Rigveda Yajurveda Samaveda Atharvaveda Divisions Samhita Brahmana Aranyaka Upanishads Aitareya Kaushitaki Brihadaranyaka Isha Taittiriya Katha Maitrayaniya Shvetashvatara Chandogya Kena Mundaka Mandukya Prashna Upavedas Ayurveda Dhanurveda Natyaveda Sthapatyaveda Vedanga Shiksha Chandas Vyākaraṇa Nirukta Kalpa Jyotisha Other Bhagavad Gita Agamas Itihasas Ramayana Mahabharata Puranas Minor Upanishads Arthashastra Nitisara Dharmaśāstra Manusmriti Nāradasmṛti Yājñavalkya Smṛti Sutras Stotras Subhashita Tantras Yoga Vasistha Yoga Sutras of Patanjali Sangam literature Tirumurai Divya Prabandham Tirumurukāṟṟuppaṭai Thiruppugal Thirukkural Kamba Ramayanam Five Great Epics Eighteen Greater Texts Eighteen Lesser Texts Athichudi Iraiyanar Akapporul Abhirami Antati Thiruvilaiyadal Puranam Vinayagar Agaval Vedarthasamgraha Deities Gods Trimurti Brahma Vishnu Shiva Agni Dattatreya Ganesha Hanuman Indra Kartikeya Krishna Rama Surya Varuna Vayu more Goddesses Tridevi Saraswati Lakshmi Parvati Bhumi Durga Kali Mahavidya Matrika Radha Rukmini Sati Shakti Shashthi Sita more Practices Worship Temple Murti Puja Bhakti Japa Bhajan Naivedhya Yajna Homa Tapas Dhyāna Tirthatana Sanskaras Garbhadhana Pumsavana Simantonayana Jatakarma Namakarana Nishkramana Annaprashana Chudakarana Karnavedha Vidyarambha Upanayana Keshanta Ritushuddhi Samavartanam Vivaha Antyeshti Varnashrama Varna Brahmin Kshatriya Vaishya Shudra Ashrama Brahmacharya Grihastha Vanaprastha Sannyasa Festivals Diwali Holi Shivaratri Raksha Bandhan Navaratri Durga Puja Ramlila Vijayadashami Ganesh Chaturthi Rama Navami Janmashtami Onam Pongal Makar Sankranti New Year Bihu Gudi Padwa Pahela Baishakh Puthandu Vaisakhi Vishu Ugadi Kumbh Mela Haridwar Nashik Prayag Ujjain Ratha Yatra Teej Vasant Panchami Others Other Svādhyāya Namaste Bindi Tilaka Related Hindus Etymology List Denominations Law Calendar Anti-Hindu sentiment Criticism Hindu gurus and sants Hindu studies Iconography Mythology Nationalism Hindutva Persecution Pilgrimage sites Bahi registers India Relations with other religions Baháʼí Buddhism Islam Jainism Judaism Sikhism Theosophy Glossary Hinduism by country Hindu temples Lists Architecture Outline Category Portal WikiProject

Authority control databases: National Japan

---
Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Namaste](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namaste) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Namaste?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.