How to Say “Thank You,” “Please,” and Common Words in Mumbai

Mumbai is a diverse city where people speak a blend of languages, mainly Marathi, Hindi, Gujarati, and English.

Familiarising yourself with a few words in these languages can help you navigate conversations and connect with locals more easily.

Below is a handy guide to some common phrases in these four languages, which are widely spoken in Mumbai.

Common Phrases in English, Marathi, Hindi, and Gujarati

English

• Thank you: Thank you

• Please: Please

• Hello: Hello

• Goodbye: Goodbye

• Excuse me: Excuse me

• How are you?: How are you?

• Yes: Yes

• No: No

• Water: Water

• Food: Food

• Friend: Friend

Marathi (Official Language of Maharashtra)

• Thank you: Dhanyavaad

• Please: Kripaya

• Hello: Namaskar

• Goodbye: Nirupan ghyava

• Excuse me: Maaf kara

• How are you?: Tumhi kase aahat?

• Yes: Ho

• No: Nahi

• Water: Paani

• Food: Jevan

• Friend: Mitra

Hindi (Widely Spoken National Language)

• Thank you: Shukriya or Dhanyavaad

• Please: Kripaya

• Hello: Namaste

• Goodbye: Alvida

• Excuse me: Maaf kijiyega

• How are you?: Aap kaise hain?

• Yes: Haan

• No: Nahi

• Water: Paani

• Food: Bhojan

• Friend: Dost

Gujarati (Language of the Large Gujarati Community)

• Thank you: Aabhar

• Please: Meherbani karine

• Hello: Kem cho?

• Goodbye: Aavjo

• Excuse me: Maaf karjo

• How are you?: Kem cho?

• Yes: Haan

• No: Na

• Water: Paani

• Food: Khavanu

• Friend: Mitra

Additional Tips for Conversing in Mumbai

1. Be Polite – A smile and a respectful tone can go a long way, especially if you’re not fluent in the local language.

2. Blend Languages – Mumbaikars often switch between languages, so feel free to mix in English with Marathi, Hindi, or Gujarati.

3. Use Simple Phrases – Even a small effort to use local phrases will be appreciated by the people you meet.

Mastering these common words and phrases will make a positive impression, helping you enjoy Mumbai’s multicultural atmosphere and connect with its people.