कौन बोल रहा है?

Use this when you answer a call from an unknown number. Just say it after your initial 'Hello'. It is grammatically masculine by default. If you know you are speaking to a woman, you could say kaun bol rahi hai?. However, the masculine version is the standard 'neutral' choice. It works perfectly as a standalone question. No need for extra fluff here.

You will use this primarily on the phone. It is perfect for those spam calls we all love. Use it when a friend calls from a new number. You can also use it in a dark room if someone whispers. It is a functional, everyday tool for your Hindi kit. It is the verbal equivalent of squinting at your screen.

Do not use this in a very formal business setting. If you are a receptionist, use something more polite. Avoid using it if you already know who is calling. That just makes things awkward. Also, do not use it to ask someone's name in person. In person, ask aapka naam kya hai? instead. Using 'speaking' in person sounds like you are narrating a play.

India has a massive mobile-user base. Phone etiquette is a blend of English and Hindi. Most people start with 'Hello' before switching to Hindi. This phrase became the standard as landlines were replaced by mobiles. It reflects the direct nature of Indian phone conversations. There is no long preamble; we get straight to the point. It is a phrase born of necessity in a busy world.

If you want to be more polite, use kaun bol rahe hain?. This uses the plural form to show respect. For a very casual vibe with friends, try kaun hai?. If you are frustrated with a telemarketer, a sharp kaun bol raha hai? works wonders. You might also hear kahan se bol rahe ho? which means 'where are you calling from?'.