India – Mumbai : Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has reflected on the deep cultural and spiritual significance of “Namaskaar,” describing the traditional folded-hand greeting as a timeless symbol of respect, humility, and human connection.
Taking to his blog, the veteran actor shared his thoughts on the origins and meaning of the gesture, which has long been an integral part of Indian culture and spirituality.
“The folded-hand gesture known as Namaskaar, Namaste, or Anjali Mudra is one of the oldest and most meaningful forms of greeting in the Indian cultural and spiritual tradition,” Bachchan wrote.
Explaining the etymology of the word “Namaste,” the actor said it is derived from Sanskrit, where “namah” means bow or salutation, and “te” means to you.
“Thus, it literally means, ‘I bow to you,’” he shared.
The actor further noted that scholars and spiritual thinkers have interpreted the gesture in several meaningful ways over the centuries.
“In Hindu philosophy, the joining of the two palms symbolizes the union of the individual self with the divine, or the meeting of mind and heart,” Bachchan explained.
He also highlighted how yogic traditions associate the gesture with balancing the left and right hemispheres of the body and mind, while Buddhism and Jainism see it as an expression of humility, peace, and respect for all living beings.
Bachchan pointed out that anthropologists have also acknowledged the social and practical value of Namaskaar, especially because it does not involve physical contact.
“Unlike a handshake, Namaskaar does not require physical contact, making it hygienic and universally respectful,” he stated.
Recalling the global shift in greetings during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, the actor said the Indian gesture gained widespread international recognition as a safe alternative to handshakes.
“During the COVID-19 pandemic, many world leaders adopted it as a safe greeting,” Bachchan noted.
He also observed that the folded-hand gesture has remained an enduring symbol across centuries, appearing in temple sculptures, classical Indian dance forms, and ancient scriptures.
“More than a greeting, Namaskaar expresses reverence, equality, gratitude, and recognition of the sacred presence within another person,” he wrote.
Concluding his blog post, the actor expressed gratitude towards his fans, affectionately known as “Ef,” praising their devotion and positivity.
“I express my reverence to all the Ef and recognise their dedication to the cause of peace and calm, but also of devotion and dedication… this is rare… but then the Ef is rare too,” Bachchan concluded.
