Learn Marathi · 4 min read
Learn Marathi: everyday phrases for your first conversation
Start speaking Marathi with simple greetings, polite words and everyday phrases you can use in Maharashtra.
Learning Marathi does not have to begin with a grammar book. A few useful Marathi phrases can help you greet someone, ask a question and show respect in everyday conversations in Maharashtra.
Start with a greeting
नमस्कार (Namaskar) is a friendly, respectful way to say hello. You can use it with a shopkeeper, a neighbour or someone you have just met. Try saying it aloud and listen to how the other person responds.
Six Marathi phrases to try today
| Marathi | Say it like | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| नमस्कार | Namaskar | Hello / greetings |
| तुम्ही कसे आहात? | Tumhi kase ahat? | How are you? (respectful) |
| मी ठीक आहे | Mi thik ahe | I am fine |
| धन्यवाद | Dhanyavaad | Thank you |
| कृपया | Krupaya | Please |
| मला मराठी शिकायची आहे | Mala Marathi shikaychi ahe | I want to learn Marathi |
In Marathi, तुम्ही (tumhi) is a respectful way of saying “you”. It is a good choice when speaking to someone you do not know well. Pronunciation varies by region and speaker, so listening and repeating matters as much as reading.
Make it a conversation
Start with “नमस्कार”, ask “तुम्ही कसे आहात?”, and answer “मी ठीक आहे”. Then thank the person with “धन्यवाद”. Practise one short exchange at a time. When you are ready, move from phrases to letters and sounds so you can read Marathi on signs, menus and messages.