How to say "お願いします" in Hindi

In Hindi, politeness is deeply tied to social hierarchy, age, and familiarity. The phrase कृपया (kripayā) is a versatile way to soften requests, but its usage depends on who you're speaking to. Unlike English, Hindi often pairs this with respectful terms like जी (ji) or honorifics when addressing elders or strangers. Overusing it with close friends can sound unnatural, while omitting it entirely with strangers can seem rude. Always observe how others use it around you to gauge the right tone.

1. With strangers, elders, or in formal settings Use कृपया to sound polite and respectful. It’s common in shops, offices, or when asking for help from someone older.

   • कृपया मेरे लिए एक गिलास पानी लाइये।
     • Please bring me a glass of water.
   • कृपया यह फॉर्म भर दीजिये।
     • Please fill out this form.

2. With colleagues or acquaintances कृपया works here too, but you can drop it if the relationship is informal. Adding जी (ji) after the request softens it further.

   • कृपया दरवाज़ा बंद कर दीजिये।
     • Please close the door.
   • दरवाज़ा बंद कर दीजिये जी।
     • Please close the door.

3. With close friends or family कृपया is rarely used here—it can sound overly formal. Instead, use a direct request or add न (na) to soften the tone.

   • पानी ला दो।
     • Bring me water.
   • थोड़ा ध्यान दो न।
     • Just pay a little attention, okay?

4. In requests for favors Pair कृपया with माफ कीजियेगा (māf kījiyegā) for apologies or when asking for something big.

   • कृपया मेरी मदद कर दीजिये, माफ कीजियेगा।
     • Please help me, I’m sorry.

👉 Most useful for daily life: Start by memorizing कृपया alone. Use it with जी (ji) when unsure—it’s universally polite and works in almost all situations. Save the direct requests for friends only.