Survival Kannada: Basic Phrases for Daily Activities in Bangalore

Multibhashi

Introduction

Are you planning to visit Bangalore or live there temporarily? Knowing some basic Kannada phrases can make your daily life much easier and more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll provide you with essential survival Kannada phrases for common daily activities in Bangalore.

Greetings and Polite Expressions

1. Namaskara (नमस्कार) - Hello

When entering a shop or meeting someone for the first time, greet them with "Namaskara."

2. Dhanyavadagalu (ಧನ್ಯವಾದಗಳು) - Thank you

Express gratitude by saying "Dhanyavadagalu" when someone helps you or provides a service.

3. Shubhodaya (ಶುಭೋದಯ) - Good morning

Start your day with a friendly "Shubhodaya" to wish someone a good morning.

Shopping and Eating Out

4. Yelli (ಎಲ್ಲಿ) - Where

Use "Yelli" to ask for directions or inquire about the location of a specific place.

5. Bele kempu ideya? (ಬೆಳೆ ಕೆಂಪು ಇದೆಯಾ?) - Do you have tomatoes?

When shopping for groceries, use this phrase to ask if a particular item is available.

6. Masala dosa kodu (ಮಸಾಲ ದೋಸೆ ಕೊಡು) - Give me a masala dosa

Order your favorite South Indian dish with this simple phrase at a restaurant or food stall.

Transportation and Directions

7. Auto yelli barutte? (ಆಟೋ ಎಲ್ಲಿ ಬರುತ್ತೆ?) - Where does the auto go?

When taking an auto-rickshaw, use this phrase to ask the driver where they are headed.

8. Right/Left (ಬಲ/ಎಡ)

Use these words to give directions or understand directions from others while navigating the streets of Bangalore.

9. Bus stand yelli? (ಬಸ್ ಸ್ಟ್ಯಾಂಡ್ ಎಲ್ಲಿ?) - Where is the bus stand?

If you're planning to take a bus, ask for the location of the nearest bus stand using this phrase.

Emergency Situations

10. Bhaya illa (ಭಯ ಇಲ್ಲ) - No problem

Assure someone that everything is okay by saying "Bhaya illa" in case of a minor inconvenience.

11. Doctor yelli? (ಡಾಕ್ಟರ್ ಎಲ್ಲಿ?) - Where is the doctor?

In case of a medical emergency, use this phrase to ask for the location of the nearest doctor.

Conclusion

Learning these basic Kannada phrases will greatly enhance your experience in Bangalore and help you navigate daily activities with ease. If you're interested in delving deeper into the Kannada language, consider enrolling in Multibhashi’s live Kannada classes for comprehensive language instruction and support.