Learn about the traditional greetings in Pakistan and how people greet each other in different social settings. Find out the significance of Salaam and non-verbal gestures in Pakistani culture.
Pakistanis greet each other reflect the richness of their culture and traditions. From the traditional Islamic greeting of “Assalam-o-Alaikum” to hugs and cheek kisses amongst close friends, each gesture carries its own significance. By embracing these greetings, one can truly experience the warmth and hospitality that Pakistanis are known for.
Pakistani society, modern greetings are gradually making their way into daily interactions. Greetings like “Hello” or “Hi,” borrowed from English, are becoming more common, especially in urban areas and among the younger generation. However, the choice of greeting is also influenced by factors such as age, gender, and the nature of the relationship. While informal greetings are acceptable among peers or friends, formal occasions demand a more respectful approach in greeting, emphasizing the importance of etiquette in social interactions.
Greeting someone is an essential part of Pakistani culture. It reflects respect, warmth, and hospitality that are deeply ingrained in the social fabric of the country. Understanding the various ways in which people in Pakistan greet each other can help visitors navigate social interactions and show respect to the locals.
Here are the common methods Pakistanis use to greet each other:
1. Salam (Islamic Greeting)
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Phrase: As-Salaam-Alaikum (السلام عليكم)
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Meaning: “Peace be upon you.”
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Response: Wa-Alaikum-Salaam (وعليكم السلام) — “And upon you be peace.”
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This is the most common and respectful greeting, used by Muslims across Pakistan regardless of region.
2. Handshake
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A polite handshake is common among men, especially in formal or business settings.
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Handshakes are often gentle and sometimes accompanied by a slight nod or smile.
3. Hug or Embrace
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Close friends and family members, especially men, may greet with a hug or cheek-to-cheek embrace.
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Among women, hugs and kisses on the cheek are also common in informal or familial settings.
4. Touching Feet (for elders)
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Younger people often show respect to elders by taking their hand and touching it to their forehead or kissing the elder’s hand.
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This is a sign of respect and seeking blessings.
5. Verbal Greetings in Local Languages
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Urdu: Salam or Adaab (a formal greeting gesture)
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Punjabi: Sat Sri Akal (mostly among Punjabi Sikhs), or Ram Ram (used by some Hindus)
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Sindhi: Salaam or Ram Ram
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Pashto: Pekhawar or Salam
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Balochi: Salaam
6. Adaab (Hand Gesture)
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A polite greeting mainly in Urdu-speaking and some Muslim communities.
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The right hand is raised with the palm inward, fingers slightly bent, near the forehead as a sign of respect.
7. Verbal Politeness
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Phrases like Khushamdeed (Welcome), Shukriya (Thank you), Meherbani (Kindness) often accompany greetings.
8. Non-Verbal Gestures
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Nods, smiles, and eye contact are important parts of greeting etiquette.
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Avoiding direct eye contact in conservative or rural areas, especially between genders, can be a sign of respect.
How to Say Hello in Urdu In Pakistani Greet In Reference to How Do Pakistani Greet Each Other?
When visiting Pakistan or interacting with Pakistani friends, it is important to use greetings appropriately to show respect and build rapport. Whether you are meeting someone for the first time or catching up with an old friend, using the right greeting can set the tone for the interaction.
In Urdu, the most common way to say hello is:
السلام علیکم
As-Salaam-Alaikum
(Pronounced: ahs-sah-LAAM ah-lay-KOOM)
It means “Peace be upon you” and is used as a respectful and polite greeting.
If you want a more casual or informal way to say hello, you can say:
ہیلو
Hello
(Pronounced: he-lo)
This is borrowed from English and widely understood, especially among younger people or in urban areas.
Another polite Urdu greeting used in some formal contexts is:
آداب
Adaab
(Pronounced: aa-daab)
It’s a respectful greeting often accompanied by a slight hand gesture.
Informal Greetings in Urdu
- Salam: A shortened version of “As-Salamu Alaikum,” this informal greeting is commonly used among friends and family members.
- Kaise Ho?: This phrase translates to “How are you?” and is a casual way to greet someone you are familiar with.
- Kiya Haal Hai?: This is another informal way to ask someone how they are doing. It shows a level of familiarity and warmth.
How Do Pakistani Greet Each Other In The Eye of Pakistani Hand Gestures.
In Pakistan, hand gestures are an integral part of everyday communication. They are used to express greetings, show respect, convey emotions, and even facilitate understanding in situations where language barriers exist. From the common “salam” gesture, where the right hand is placed over the heart, to the intricate hand movements used in traditional dance forms like Kathak, hand gestures hold immense cultural significance in Pakistan.
Here are some common Pakistani hand gestures and their meanings:
The “Adaab” Gesture:
This gesture involves raising the right hand to the forehead as a sign of respect or greeting. It is often accompanied by a slight bow of the head and is commonly used when meeting elders or people of authority.
The “Thumbs Up” Gesture:
In Pakistan, the thumbs-up gesture is generally considered positive and is used to express approval, agreement, or appreciation. However, it is essential to note that the connotation of this gesture can vary in different cultural contexts.
The “Head Shake” Gesture:
Unlike the Western interpretation where a head shake signifies “no,” in Pakistan, a slight head shake from side to side can indicate understanding or acknowledgment. It is often used to show agreement or affirmation.
The “Palms Together” Gesture:
Joining the palms together in a prayer-like position is a gesture of gratitude and humility in Pakistani culture. It is commonly used when expressing thanks or seeking blessings from elders.
The “Hand Over Heart” Gesture:
Placing one’s hand over the heart is a gesture of sincerity and warmth in Pakistani culture. It is often used when expressing deep emotions like love, gratitude, or sorrow.
Greetings in Pakistan are deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions. Whether it’s a formal handshake, a respectful nod, or a warm hug, the way people greet each other in Pakistan reflects their values of respect, kindness, and hospitality. By understanding and respecting these greetings, you can navigate social interactions with ease and show appreciation for Pakistani culture.