Ways to Say It
A few common variations exist depending on formality and region.
जन्मदिन मुबारक होHappy birthday — the most common everyday phrase
जन्मदिन की शुभकामनाएंBirthday wishes / greetings — slightly more formal, common in cards
हैप्पी बर्थडेHappy birthday — the English phrase, also very commonly used casually in Hindi
आपको जन्मदिन की बहुत बहुत बधाईMany congratulations to you on your birthday — formal, respectful
तुम्हें जन्मदिन मुबारकHappy birthday to you — informal, for friends and peers
Example Messages
Full example messages you can send as-is or adapt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Hindi speakers actually say "Happy Birthday" in English?
Yes, very commonly — English birthday greetings are widely used and understood in India alongside Hindi phrases, especially in casual and urban settings.
What's the difference between "mubarak ho" and "shubhkamnaayein"?
"Mubarak ho" (congratulations/blessed be) is the more common everyday phrase, while "shubhkamnaayein" (wishes/greetings) tends to appear in more formal or written contexts, like cards.
Is there a formal way to wish an elder happy birthday in Hindi?
Yes — using respectful phrasing like "aapko janamdin ki bahut bahut badhai" (many congratulations to you) with the formal "aap" form is appropriate for elders.