A respectful greeting or salutation in Hindu culture.

Origin: The word 'नमस्ते' (namaste) originates from Sanskrit, an ancient Indic language. It is a combination of two words: 'नमः' (namah) meaning 'bow, obeisance, adoration' and 'ते' (te) meaning 'to you'. This form of greeting is deeply rooted in the culture and philosophies of the Indian subcontinent.
Historical and Cultural Context: First attested in ancient Hindu scriptures, 'namaste' has been used as a form of respectful greeting and acknowledgment of the divine spark within each individual. It is often accompanied by a slight bow and hands pressed together in front of the chest, known as the Anjali Mudra.
Evolution: Over time, 'namaste' has been adopted into various languages across the Indian subcontinent, maintaining its original form in many cases. It shares cognates with other Sanskrit-derived languages, such as Hindi, Marathi, and Nepali.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'namaste' is widely used as a respectful greeting in many parts of South Asia. It has also gained popularity worldwide, especially in yoga communities, symbolizing a spiritual connection and mutual respect.

In yoga, 'namaste' is often used at the end of a session to honor the teacher and the teachings.