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कामना

B1 noun 9 min read

कामना

kamna

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips कामना in 30 Seconds

Explanation कामना in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 'Kamna' as a special word used for 'Happy Birthday' or 'Happy Diwali.' Even though it is a B1 word, you see it everywhere in greetings. In Hindi, when we want to wish someone something good, we use 'Shubhkamna.' You don't need to know all the complex ways to use it yet. Just remember that 'Shubhkamna' means 'Good Wish.' You can say 'Janmadin ki shubhkamnaen' for Happy Birthday. It is a feminine word, so we usually see it with 'ki.' Don't worry about the deep meanings for now. Just focus on using it for festivals and special days. It is a very polite way to be nice to people in India.

At the A2 level, you should start recognizing 'Kamna' as a noun that means 'wish.' You might see it in simple sentences like 'Meri kamna hai' (My wish is). You should know that 'Shubhkamna' is the plural 'Shubhkamnaen' when you give many wishes. You can also start using the verb form 'Kamna karna' which means 'to wish.' For example, 'Main aapki khushi ki kamna karta hoon' (I wish for your happiness). Notice the 'ki' after 'khushi.' This is important because 'Kamna' is feminine. You can use this word in simple letters or emails to sound more polite than just using basic words like 'want.'

As a B1 learner, you should understand the nuance of 'Kamna' compared to 'Iccha.' While 'Iccha' is a general want, 'Kamna' is more formal, heartfelt, or aspirational. You should be able to use it in various contexts like formal letters, religious discussions, or expressing deep personal hopes. You should also be familiar with 'Manokamna' (a wish of the heart/mind). At this level, you should correctly apply the feminine gender of the word in all sentences, using 'meri,' 'uski,' and 'ki' appropriately. You should also recognize it in news headlines or formal speeches where it represents the 'desire' or 'aspiration' of a group of people.

At the B2 level, you should be comfortable using 'Kamna' in complex sentence structures. You should understand its role in literature and how it can signify deeper philosophical concepts like 'desire' in the context of human nature. You should be able to distinguish between 'Kamna,' 'Abhilasha,' and 'Akanksha' based on the level of intensity and the specific context (poetic vs. ambitious). You should also be able to use it in professional settings, such as 'Sahyog ki kamna' (wishing for cooperation) in business emails. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the word's dignity and its Sanskrit heritage.

For C1 learners, 'Kamna' is a word that adds elegance and precision to your Hindi. You should understand its etymological roots and how it relates to other Sanskrit-derived words. You should be able to use it to discuss abstract concepts, such as the 'collective aspirations' of a society or the 'spiritual desires' of an individual. You should be sensitive to the register of the word, knowing exactly when to use it instead of Urdu-origin synonyms like 'Tamanna' to maintain a specific tone. Your ability to use 'Kamna' in poetic or highly formal prose should be seamless, showing a deep grasp of Hindi's stylistic layers.

At the C2 level, you have a masterly grasp of 'Kamna.' You can appreciate its usage in classical Hindi literature and ancient texts where it might carry connotations of passion or vital force. You can use the word to create sophisticated metaphors and can navigate the finest nuances between it and its synonyms in any context—be it political, spiritual, or aesthetic. You understand how the word has evolved over time and can use it to evoke specific cultural and emotional responses in your audience. Your command over the word is indistinguishable from that of a highly educated native speaker.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

कामना in 30 Seconds

Kamna is a formal Hindi noun meaning 'wish' or 'desire,' often used for heartfelt aspirations.
It is most commonly heard in 'Shubhkamnaen' (good wishes) during festivals and birthdays.
Grammatically, it is a feminine noun and requires feminine markers like 'ki' or 'meri'.
It is more elevated and respectful than the common word 'iccha' and fits formal contexts.

The Hindi word कामना (Kāmnā) is a profound and versatile noun that primarily translates to 'wish,' 'desire,' or 'aspiration.' Deeply rooted in Sanskrit, it carries a weight that is slightly more formal and poetic than the everyday word for desire, इच्छा (icchā). While इच्छा can refer to a simple want, like wanting an ice cream, कामना often implies a deeper, more soulful yearning or a formal expression of goodwill. Understanding this word is essential for B1 learners because it bridges the gap between basic communication and expressive, culturally nuanced Hindi.

Etymological Depth: Derived from the Sanskrit root 'Kam' (to love or desire), it relates to 'Kama' (desire/pleasure). It suggests a focused intent of the heart.
Social Context: You will most frequently encounter this word in the plural form, शुभकामनाएं (shubhkāmnāen), which means 'good wishes.' This is the standard way to offer congratulations or wish someone well during festivals, birthdays, or new ventures.

मेरी ईश्वर से यही कामना है कि आप हमेशा खुश रहें। (My only wish to God is that you always remain happy.)

In literary and philosophical discussions, कामना represents the human condition of longing. It is used to describe the driving forces behind human actions—our ambitions and our hopes for the future. For instance, a politician might speak of the जनता की कामना (the people's desire) for change. It is not just a passing thought; it is an internal state of wanting something significant to manifest in reality. It is often paired with verbs like करना (to do/make) or होना (to be/have).

सफलता की कामना हर किसी के मन में होती है। (The desire for success is in everyone's mind.)

Beyond personal desires, कामना is integral to Indian spirituality and ethics. In texts like the Bhagavad Gita, the control of कामना (desires) is discussed as a path to peace. Therefore, the word carries a philosophical weight that 'wish' sometimes lacks in English. It can refer to the 'lust' or 'passion' in certain classical contexts, though in modern standard Hindi, it has largely settled into the meaning of 'earnest wish' or 'aspiration'.

शांति की कामना करना ही मानवता है। (To wish for peace is humanity itself.)

Register: Formal to Semi-Formal. It is less common in very casual street slang but ubiquitous in media, literature, and formal greetings.

हमें आपकी मंगल कामना है। (We wish for your well-being.)

In summary, कामना is the bridge between the heart's internal longing and the external expression of hope. Whether you are praying for a loved one's health or writing a formal invitation, this word provides the necessary gravitas and warmth. It is a feminine noun, so it takes feminine possessive markers like मेरी (meri) or उसकी (uski).

उसकी कामना पूरी हुई। (Her wish was fulfilled.)

Using कामना correctly involves understanding its grammatical role as a feminine noun. It is frequently paired with the verb करना (karnā) to form the compound verb 'to wish.' Unlike चाहना (chāhnā), which is a direct verb meaning 'to want,' कामना करना is used for more significant or formal aspirations. Let's explore the various sentence structures where this word shines.

Structure: [Subject] + [Object/Goal] + की + कामना + [Verb]: This is the standard way to express a wish for something. Example: 'मैं आपकी सफलता की कामना करता हूँ' (I wish for your success).

हम विश्व शांति की कामना करते हैं। (We wish for world peace.)

Another common usage is as a standalone noun modified by an adjective. The most common adjective is शुभ (shubh - auspicious), creating शुभकामना (good wish). In plural, it becomes शुभकामनाएं (shubhkāmnāen). When you say 'best wishes' in English, the Hindi equivalent is almost always हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं (hārdik shubhkāmnāen), meaning 'heartfelt good wishes.'

जन्मदिन की बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं! (Many many happy returns/good wishes for your birthday!)

In more literary or dramatic contexts, कामना can be the subject of a sentence, often described as 'burning' or 'rising' within a person. This highlights the internal nature of the word. Verbs like जागना (jāgnā - to wake/arise) or होना (honā - to be) are used here.

उसके मन में विदेश जाने की कामना जागी। (The desire to go abroad arose in his mind.)

Negative Construction: To express that one does not desire anything, you say: 'मुझे किसी चीज़ की कामना नहीं है' (I have no desire for anything).

एक सन्यासी को धन की कामना नहीं करनी चाहिए। (An ascetic should not desire wealth.)

Lastly, कामना is used in formal letter writing and emails. It is a polite way to end a message, wishing the recipient well. For example, 'सहयोग की कामना के साथ' (With the hope/wish for cooperation). This demonstrates the word's utility in professional Hindi environments.

हम आपके उज्ज्वल भविष्य की कामना करते हैं। (We wish for your bright future.)

If you are in India or listening to Hindi media, you will hear कामना in several specific environments. It is not a word usually shouted across a busy street, but rather one used in moments of reflection, celebration, or formality. Let's look at the most common scenarios where this word surfaces.

Festivals and Celebrations: This is the #1 place. On Diwali, Holi, or Eid, people don't just say 'Happy Diwali'; they often say 'दीपावली की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ' (Heartfelt good wishes for Diwali). You'll see this on greeting cards, billboards, and WhatsApp messages.

नये साल की बहुत-बहुत शुभकामनाएं! (Many good wishes for the New Year!)

In the news and political speeches, कामना is used to discuss the aspirations of the nation. A news anchor might report on the जनता की कामना (the wish of the public) regarding a new policy. It sounds more dignified than saying what people 'want' (चाहते हैं). It frames the desire as a legitimate, collective hope.

प्रधान मंत्री ने देश की समृद्धि की कामना की। (The Prime Minister wished for the country's prosperity.)

Religion and Spirituality are also major domains. In temples or during prayers (prarthana), devotees express their मनोकामना (manokāmnā). There are even specific temples in India known as 'Manokamna Temples,' where it is believed that your deepest wishes will be granted if you pray there. The word here signifies a sacred request.

भक्त अपनी मनोकामना लेकर मंदिर जाते हैं। (Devotees go to the temple with their heartfelt wishes.)

Formal Correspondence: In formal letters, especially in government or academic settings, 'Kamna' is used to express hope for a positive outcome or continued partnership.

हम आपके शीघ्र स्वस्थ होने की कामना करते हैं। (We wish for your speedy recovery.)

Finally, you will find it in literature and poetry. Hindi poets often use कामना to personify desire or to illustrate the fleeting nature of human wants. If you read a Hindi poem about the moon or the seasons, the poet might describe the earth's कामना for rain. It adds a layer of emotional depth that more common words cannot provide.

For learners of Hindi, कामना can sometimes be tricky because of its similarity to other words and its specific grammatical requirements. Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your Hindi sound much more natural and precise.

Mistake 1: Confusing 'Kamna' with 'Kaam': The word काम (kām) means 'work' or 'task.' While they look similar, they are unrelated. Beginners often say 'Mujhe kamna hai' when they mean 'I have work' (Mujhe kaam hai). Remember: काम is work, कामना is a wish.

Incorrect: मुझे बहुत कामना है। (I have much wish - intended: I have much work.)

Another common error is getting the gender wrong. कामना is a feminine noun. Many learners use the masculine possessive मेरा (merā) instead of the feminine मेरी (merī). Using the wrong gender marker is a tell-tale sign of a non-native speaker and can sometimes make the sentence sound awkward.

Incorrect: मेरा कामना है... (My wish is... - should be 'मेरी कामना है')

Learners also tend to use कामना for very trivial things. While not technically grammatically wrong, saying 'I wish for a cup of tea' using कामना करना sounds overly dramatic or strange. Save कामना for meaningful aspirations, health, success, or formal greetings. For a cup of tea, stick to मन (man) or इच्छा (icchā).

Mistake 2: Incorrect Postposition: When you wish 'for' something, you must use the postposition की (kī). Learners often forget this or use के लिए (ke liye), which is less common in this specific construction.

Correct: शांति की कामना (Wish for peace). Incorrect: शांति के लिए कामना।

Overusing the word in casual conversation is another pitfall. If you are with friends, use चाहना (to want) or उम्मीद (hope). Using कामना in a casual setting can make you sound like you are giving a formal speech. Context is key to sounding like a native speaker.

Finally, be careful with the pluralization. The plural of कामना is कामनाएं (kāmnāen). Some learners try to use the English plural logic or forget to change the ending when expressing multiple wishes. Always remember the 'en' ending for the feminine plural.

मेरी बहुत सी कामनाएं हैं। (I have many wishes.)

Hindi has a rich vocabulary for expressing 'desire' and 'wish.' Knowing the subtle differences between कामना and its synonyms will help you choose the right word for the right situation. Here is a comparison of common alternatives.

कामना vs. इच्छा (Icchā): इच्छा is the most common word for 'wish' or 'desire.' It is neutral and can be used for anything from wanting a snack to wanting a new job. कामना is more formal and often used for well-wishing or deeper aspirations.
कामना vs. अभिलाषा (Abhilāshā): अभिलाषा is even more poetic and intense than कामना. It implies a strong, often ambitious longing. It is common in literature and songs.

उसकी अभिलाषा है कि वह चाँद पर जाए। (It is his intense desire to go to the moon.)

Then there are words of Urdu origin like तमन्ना (tamannā) and हसरत (hasrat). तमन्ना is very popular in Bollywood songs and poetry; it has a romantic and emotional flavor. हसरत often implies a desire that remains unfulfilled or a regretful longing. In contrast, कामना is more 'pure' (Tatsam) and used in formal or spiritual contexts.

मेरे दिल में एक तमन्ना है। (There is a desire in my heart - sounds more romantic/musical.)

For expressing 'hope,' the word आशा (āshā) or उम्मीद (ummeed) is used. While a 'wish' (कामना) is what you want to happen, 'hope' is the belief that it *might* happen. Often, कामना and आशा are used together in formal speeches to cover all bases of positive intent.

Comparison Table: - इच्छा: General/Common - कामना: Formal/Greeting/Spiritual - अभिलाषा: Intense/Poetic - तमन्ना: Romantic/Emotional (Urdu) - आकांक्षा: Ambitious/Goal-oriented

हमें आपसे बहुत आकांक्षाएं हैं। (We have many expectations/ambitions from you.)

In summary, choose कामना when you want to sound respectful, formal, or when you are wishing someone well. It is the 'safe' choice for public speaking and formal writing. For daily life, इच्छा will serve you better. For poetry or songs, explore तमन्ना or अभिलाषा.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word is related to 'Kama,' the Hindu god of love and desire (similar to Cupid).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈkɑːm.nə/

US /ˈkɑm.nə/

The stress is slightly on the first syllable 'Kaam'.

Rhymes With

सामना (Saamna) भावना (Bhaavna) साधना (Saadhna) याचना (Yaachna) रचना (Rachna) सूचना (Soochna) तुलना (Tulna) बजना (Bajna)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like 'Kam-na' (short 'a' in the first syllable), which sounds like 'less' in Hindi.
Adding a heavy 'r' sound like 'Karmna' (confusing it with Karma).
Pronouncing the final 'a' too long like 'Kaam-naaa'.
Confusing the 'n' with a nasal 'nh' sound.
Failing to aspirate or lengthen the first vowel correctly.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Easy to recognize in texts and greetings.

Writing 4/5

Requires correct gender agreement and spelling of the nasal 'n'.

Speaking 3/5

Common in set phrases, easy to use in greetings.

Listening 2/5

Distinct sound, usually clear in formal speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

इच्छा शुभ करना पूरा मन

Learn Next

अभिलाषा आकांक्षा प्रार्थना सफलता भविष्य

Advanced

निष्काम अतृप्त शमन साधना संकल्प

Grammar to Know

Feminine Noun Agreement

मेरी (feminine) कामना (feminine) अच्छी (feminine) है।

Compound Verbs with 'Karna'

कामना करना (To wish) functions as a single unit.

Postposition 'Ki'

सफलता 'की' कामना (Wish 'for' success).

Pluralization of Feminine Nouns in 'aa'

कामना becomes कामनाएं (adding -en).

Oblique Case Plural

कामनाओं (kamnaon) used after postpositions like 'mein' or 'se'.

Examples by Level

जन्मदिन की शुभकामनाएँ!

Happy Birthday!

Plural feminine form used for greetings.

दिवाली की शुभकामनाएँ!

Happy Diwali!

Common festive greeting.

मेरी एक कामना है।

I have one wish.

Singular feminine noun with 'meri'.

यह मेरी कामना है।

This is my wish.

Demonstrative pronoun with feminine noun.

शुभकामनाएँ!

Best wishes!

Standalone plural noun.

होली की शुभकामनाएँ!

Happy Holi!

Postposition 'ki' used with feminine noun.

आपकी क्या कामना है?

What is your wish?

Interrogative sentence.

सबकी अच्छी कामना है।

Everyone has a good wish.

Adjective 'achhi' matches the feminine noun.

मैं आपकी सफलता की कामना करता हूँ।

I wish for your success.

Verb phrase 'kamna karna'.

वह शांति की कामना करती है।

She wishes for peace.

Subject-verb agreement for feminine subject.

हमें आपकी मंगल कामना है।

We wish for your well-being.

Adjective 'mangal' means auspicious/well-being.

उसकी कामना पूरी हुई।

His/Her wish was fulfilled.

Verb 'pauri hona' (to be fulfilled).

क्या आपकी कोई कामना है?

Do you have any wish?

Use of 'koi' (any) with the noun.

मेरी कामना है कि आप खुश रहें।

My wish is that you stay happy.

Subordinate clause starting with 'ki'.

वे जीत की कामना कर रहे हैं।

They are wishing for victory.

Present continuous tense.

अच्छी कामना हमेशा फल देती है।

A good wish always bears fruit.

Proverbial usage.

मंदिर में लोग अपनी मनोकामना मांगते हैं।

People ask for their heartfelt wishes in the temple.

Compound word 'manokamna'.

मैं आपके उज्ज्वल भविष्य की कामना करता हूँ।

I wish for your bright future.

Formal expression used in letters.

उनकी कामना थी कि देश स्वतंत्र हो।

Their wish was that the country become independent.

Past tense 'thi' matches feminine noun.

बिना कामना के कर्म करना कठिन है।

It is difficult to work without desire.

Philosophical context.

मेरी हार्दिक शुभकामनाएँ स्वीकार करें।

Please accept my heartfelt good wishes.

Imperative sentence with 'swikar karein'.

उसने अपनी अंतिम कामना बताई।

He told his last wish.

Adjective 'antim' (last).

सच्ची कामना कभी बेकार नहीं जाती।

A true wish never goes to waste.

Abstract noun usage.

हम सब आपकी प्रगति की कामना करते हैं।

We all wish for your progress.

Collective subject.

मानव मन कामनाओं का जाल है।

The human mind is a web of desires.

Plural oblique form 'kamnaon'.

राजनीति में सत्ता की कामना सर्वोपरि है।

In politics, the desire for power is paramount.

Formal political context.

लेखक ने समाज सुधार की कामना व्यक्त की है।

The author has expressed a wish for social reform.

Verb 'vyakt karna' (to express).

बिना किसी स्वार्थ के कामना करना महानता है।

To wish without any selfishness is greatness.

Gerundial use of 'karna'.

उसकी आँखों में एक अजीब सी कामना थी।

There was a strange kind of desire in his eyes.

Descriptive literary usage.

क्या यह केवल एक कल्पना है या वास्तविक कामना?

Is this just an imagination or a real desire?

Contrasting two abstract nouns.

हमें अपनी कामनाओं पर नियंत्रण रखना चाहिए।

We should keep control over our desires.

Moral/Ethical imperative.

इस पत्र के माध्यम से मैं अपनी शुभकामना प्रेषित करता हूँ।

Through this letter, I send my good wishes.

High-register verb 'preshit karna' (to send).

उनकी दार्शनिक रचनाओं में मुक्ति की कामना झलकती है।

A desire for liberation is reflected in his philosophical works.

Verb 'jhalakna' (to be reflected/evident).

लोकतंत्र की सफलता जनता की सामूहिक कामना पर निर्भर है।

The success of democracy depends on the collective wish of the people.

Complex noun phrase 'samuhik kamna'.

कवि ने प्रकृति के माध्यम से मानवीय कामनाओं का चित्रण किया है।

The poet has depicted human desires through nature.

Literary analysis term 'chitran karna'.

त्याग और कामना के बीच का द्वंद्व ही जीवन है।

Life is the conflict between sacrifice and desire.

Abstract philosophical concept.

उन्होंने अपनी वसीयत में अपनी अंतिम कामनाएँ लिपिबद्ध कीं।

He recorded his final wishes in his will.

Formal verb 'lipibaddh karna' (to record/write down).

साधना का उद्देश्य समस्त कामनाओं का शमन करना है।

The goal of spiritual practice is to suppress all desires.

Sanskritized vocabulary like 'shaman' (suppression).

यह लेख आधुनिक समाज की भौतिकवादी कामनाओं पर प्रहार करता है।

This article attacks the materialistic desires of modern society.

Critical academic tone.

उसकी स्वरलहरी में विरह की कामना स्पष्ट सुनाई देती थी।

The desire of separation was clearly audible in her melody.

Poetic and evocative language.

उपनिषदों में कामना को ही संसार का मूल कारण माना गया है।

In the Upanishads, desire is considered the root cause of the world.

Highly academic/religious context.

उनकी कविताओं में निहित कामनाएँ अत्यंत सूक्ष्म और गूढ़ हैं।

The desires inherent in his poems are extremely subtle and profound.

Use of 'nihit' (inherent) and 'gūdh' (profound).

राजनीतिक महत्वाकांक्षा अक्सर लोक-कल्याण की कामना को निगल जाती है।

Political ambition often swallows the desire for public welfare.

Metaphorical and critical usage.

क्या मानवीय चेतना कभी पूर्णतः निष्काम हो सकती है?

Can human consciousness ever become completely desireless?

Using the adjective form 'nishkaam' (without desire).

इस महाकाव्य का नायक अपनी वैयक्तिक कामनाओं का बलिदान कर देता है।

The protagonist of this epic sacrifices his personal desires.

Literary criticism register.

कलाकार की सृजनात्मक कामना ही उसकी कला को जीवंत बनाती है।

The artist's creative desire alone makes his art alive.

Aesthetic theory context.

इतिहास गवाह है कि अतृप्त कामनाएँ ही क्रांतियों को जन्म देती हैं।

History is witness that unfulfilled desires give birth to revolutions.

Sociological/Historical assertion.

वह अपनी अंतरात्मा की सूक्ष्म कामनाओं को पहचानने का प्रयास कर रहा है।

He is trying to recognize the subtle desires of his inner soul.

Introspective and psychological depth.

Common Collocations

मंगल कामना

हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं

कामना करना

मनोकामना पूरी होना

अंतिम कामना

सफलता की कामना

कामनाओं का दमन

पवित्र कामना

तीव्र कामना

जनता की कामना

Common Phrases

शुभकामनाएं

— Standard way to say 'Best wishes'. Used daily for any positive event.

परीक्षा के लिए शुभकामनाएं!

कामना है कि...

— A polite way to start a sentence expressing a hope.

कामना है कि आप स्वस्थ रहें।

मनोकामना

— A deep-seated wish, often shared with God or a close confidant.

भगवान आपकी मनोकामना पूर्ण करें।

कामना रहित

— Desireless. Often used in a spiritual or selfless context.

कामना रहित सेवा ही सच्ची सेवा है।

कामना पूर्ति

— The fulfillment of a wish.

कामना पूर्ति के लिए उसने कठिन परिश्रम किया।

मंगलमय कामना

— A very formal way of wishing for someone's auspicious well-being.

आपकी यात्रा के लिए मंगलमय कामना।

अतृप्त कामना

— An unquenched or unfulfilled desire.

अतृप्त कामनाएं मन को अशांत रखती हैं।

कामना शक्ति

— The power of will or desire.

उसकी कामना शक्ति बहुत प्रबल है।

कामना के वशीभूत

— Under the control of desire.

वह अपनी कामना के वशीभूत होकर गलत काम कर बैठा।

शुभकामना संदेश

— A message of good wishes.

मुझे उसका शुभकामना संदेश मिला।

Often Confused With

कामना vs काम (Kaam)

Means 'work'. Often confused by beginners due to spelling similarity.

कामना vs कम (Kam)

Means 'less'. The first 'a' is short, unlike in 'Kaamna'.

कामना vs कमर (Kamar)

Means 'waist'. Unrelated but phonetically similar for new learners.

Idioms & Expressions

"कामनाओं का महल बनाना"

— To build castles in the air; to have many unrealistic desires.

सिर्फ कामनाओं का महल बनाने से कुछ नहीं होगा, काम करो।

Informal

"मनोकामना सिद्ध होना"

— For a deep wish to be successfully granted or achieved.

कठिन तपस्या के बाद उसकी मनोकामना सिद्ध हुई।

Formal/Religious

"कामना की आग में जलना"

— To be consumed by an intense desire.

वह प्रतिशोध की कामना की आग में जल रहा है।

Literary

"कामनाओं का गला घोंटना"

— To suppress or kill one's own desires.

परिवार के लिए उसने अपनी कामनाओं का गला घोंट दिया।

Emotional

"कामना पूरी करना"

— To fulfill a wish.

पिता ने अपने बेटे की हर कामना पूरी की।

Neutral

"कामना जागृत होना"

— For a desire to awaken or arise within.

बुढ़ापे में उसमें तीर्थ यात्रा की कामना जागृत हुई।

Formal

"कामनाओं का अंबार"

— A huge pile or collection of desires.

इंसान के पास कामनाओं का अंबार होता है।

Metaphorical

"कामनाओं के पीछे भागना"

— To chase after desires endlessly.

कामनाओं के पीछे भागने से शांति नहीं मिलती।

Philosophical

"शुभकामनाएं देना"

— To give/offer good wishes.

सबने उसे नई नौकरी के लिए शुभकामनाएं दीं।

Neutral

"कामना का फल"

— The result or fruit of a wish/desire.

यह तुम्हारी मेहनत और कामना का फल है।

Neutral

Easily Confused

कामना vs इच्छा

Both mean 'wish'.

Iccha is common/daily; Kamna is formal/earnest.

मेरी पानी पीने की इच्छा है। (I want to drink water.)

कामना vs आशा

Both relate to future outcomes.

Aasha is 'hope' (expectation); Kamna is 'wish' (longing).

मुझे आशा है कि वह आएगा। (I hope he will come.)

कामना vs प्रार्थना

Both used in spiritual contexts.

Prarthana is 'prayer' (the act); Kamna is the 'wish' inside the prayer.

मैंने भगवान से प्रार्थना की। (I prayed to God.)

कामना vs आकांक्षा

Both mean desire/aspiration.

Akanksha is specifically about ambition or high goals.

उसकी बड़ी आकांक्षाएं हैं। (He has big ambitions.)

कामना vs तमन्ना

Synonyms for desire.

Tamanna is Urdu-origin and more romantic/poetic.

तुम्हें पाने की तमन्ना है। (I have a desire to get you.)

Sentence Patterns

[Occasion] की शुभकामनाएं!

ईद की शुभकामनाएं!

मैं [Goal] की कामना करता हूँ।

मैं आपकी जीत की कामना करता हूँ।

मेरी कामना है कि [Clause].

मेरी कामना है कि आप हमेशा स्वस्थ रहें।

[Subject] की [Adjective] कामना है।

उसकी एक ही अंतिम कामना है।

[Subject] [Object] की कामना रखते हैं।

वे शांति की कामना रखते हैं।

[Noun] की कामना करना [Adjective] है।

सफलता की कामना करना स्वाभाविक है।

[Abstract Noun] की कामना में [Verb].

मुक्ति की कामना में वह तपस्या कर रहा है।

[Concept] कामनाओं का [Metaphor] है।

संसार कामनाओं का एक अनंत चक्र है।

Word Family

Nouns

कामना (Wish)

मनोकामना (Heartfelt wish)

शुभकामना (Good wish)

निष्कामता (Desirelessness)

Verbs

कामना करना (To wish)

Adjectives

काम्य (Desirable)

निष्काम (Desireless/Selfless)

शुभकामनापूर्ण (Full of good wishes)

काम (Desire/Work)

इच्छा (Desire)

अभिलाषा (Longing)

आकांक्षा (Ambition)

प्रेम (Love)

How to Use It

frequency

Very common in written Hindi and formal speech; high frequency in greetings.

Common Mistakes

मेरा कामना (Mera Kamna) → मेरी कामना (Meri Kamna)
Kamna is feminine, so it must take the feminine possessive 'Meri'.
मुझे काम है (when meaning wish) → मेरी कामना है
'Kaam' means work. Beginners often mix these up due to the similar sound.
सफलता के लिए कामना → सफलता की कामना
The standard postposition used with 'Kamna' to mean 'wish for' is 'ki'.
कामना करना (for tea/coffee) → इच्छा होना / मन करना
Using 'Kamna' for trivial daily wants sounds unnaturally formal or dramatic.
शुभकामनाएं (singular context) → शुभकामना
While 'Shubhkamnaen' is common for greetings, use singular 'Shubhkamna' when referring to one specific wish.

Tips

Festive Greetings

During Diwali, always use 'Shubhkamnaen'. It is the most respectful and culturally appropriate way to greet elders and colleagues.

The 'Ki' Rule

Always remember: [Object] + KI + Kamna. For example, 'Shanti ki kamna'. Using 'ka' is a common mistake for learners.

Email Closings

Ending a formal email with 'Shubhkamnaon ke saath' (With good wishes) is a very professional way to sign off in Hindi.

Word Pairing

Pair 'Kamna' with 'Mangal' (auspicious) to sound very sophisticated. 'Mangal kamna' is a very high-level expression.

Vowel Length

Make sure to hold the 'aa' sound in 'Kaam'. If you say it too fast, it might sound like 'Kam' (less).

Philosophical Context

If you are reading the Bhagavad Gita, look for the word 'Nishkaam'. It means performing actions without 'kamna' (desire) for the fruit.

Politeness

Using 'Kamna karta hoon' instead of 'Chahta hoon' makes your request sound like a polite wish rather than a demand.

Plural Form

When writing greetings, always use the plural 'Shubhkamnaen'. A single 'Shubhkamna' sounds incomplete in a greeting.

Rhyme Time

Rhyme it with 'Saamna' (to face). You must 'Saamna' (face) your 'Kamna' (desires) to achieve them!

Movie Dialogues

Listen for the word in old Bollywood classics. It’s often used by the hero or heroine when talking about their life's purpose.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Calm' + 'Now'. When you have a 'Kamna' (wish), you won't be 'Calm Now' until it comes true!

Visual Association

Imagine a person throwing a coin into a wishing well. The coin is the 'Kamna' entering the water of reality.

Word Web

Wish Desire Greeting Success Heart Formal Hope Soul

Challenge

Write three sentences using 'Kamna': one for a friend's birthday, one for world peace, and one for your own secret dream.

Word Origin

Derived from the Sanskrit word 'kāmanā' (कामना), which comes from the root 'kam' (कम्) meaning 'to love' or 'to desire.'

Original meaning: The act of desiring, wishing, or loving. It has always carried a sense of mental or soulful intent.

Indo-Aryan (Sanskrit descendant).

Cultural Context

Avoid using 'Kamna' for trivial or greedy things in formal settings, as it might sound slightly inappropriate or overly dramatic.

While English speakers use 'I wish' casually, Hindi speakers use 'Kamna' to add a layer of formality and depth, similar to 'I sincerely hope' or 'It is my earnest desire'.

The phrase 'Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah' is a famous Sanskrit prayer that embodies the ultimate 'Kamna' for universal happiness. Many Bollywood songs use 'Tamanna' (the Urdu equivalent) to express romantic longing. Manokamna Temple in various parts of India where people go specifically to have their wishes fulfilled.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Birthdays

जन्मदिन की शुभकामनाएं
आपकी हर कामना पूरी हो
बहुत सारी शुभकामनाएं
खुश रहें

Festivals

दिवाली की शुभकामनाएं
त्योहार की हार्दिक शुभकामनाएं
मंगल कामनाएं
सुख-समृद्धि की कामना

Formal Emails

सहयोग की कामना के साथ
शीघ्र उत्तर की कामना
सफलता की कामना करता हूँ
सादर शुभकामनाएं

Spiritual/Religious

मनोकामना पूर्ण हो
ईश्वर से कामना है
पवित्र कामना
कामनाओं का त्याग

Illness/Recovery

शीघ्र स्वस्थ होने की कामना
अच्छे स्वास्थ्य की कामना
जल्द ठीक हो जाएं
हमारी शुभकामनाएं आपके साथ हैं

Conversation Starters

"नये साल के लिए आपकी सबसे बड़ी कामना क्या है?"

"क्या आप कभी किसी मनोकामना मंदिर गए हैं?"

"क्या आपको लगता है कि कामनाओं के बिना जीवन संभव है?"

"आप अपने दोस्तों को जन्मदिन पर क्या शुभकामनाएं देते हैं?"

"क्या आपकी कोई ऐसी कामना है जो बचपन में पूरी हुई थी?"

Journal Prompts

आज मेरी सबसे बड़ी कामना यह है कि...

जब मेरी कोई कामना पूरी नहीं होती, तो मैं कैसा महसूस करता हूँ?

मेरे जीवन की तीन मुख्य कामनाएँ क्या हैं और मैं उन्हें कैसे प्राप्त करूँगा?

क्या 'निष्काम' (बिना कामना के) काम करना वास्तव में संभव है? अपने विचार लिखें।

किसी ऐसे व्यक्ति के बारे में लिखें जिसने आपकी कोई कामना पूरी करने में मदद की हो।

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is a feminine noun. You should always use feminine adjectives and verbs with it, such as 'achhi kamna' or 'kamna hoti hai'.

You say 'Janmadin ki hardik shubhkamnaen'. 'Hardik' means heartfelt and 'shubhkamnaen' is the plural for good wishes.

It's technically possible but sounds very strange and overly formal. Use 'iccha' or 'man' for daily things like food.

'Kamna' is a general wish or desire. 'Shubhkamna' literally means 'good wish' (Shubh + Kamna) and is specifically used for greetings.

While Urdu speakers understand it, they are more likely to use 'Khwahish' or 'Tamanna'. 'Kamna' is a Sanskrit-origin word (Tatsam).

It is a compound of 'Man' (mind) and 'Kamna' (wish), meaning a deep, heartfelt wish or a wish of the soul.

The plural is 'Kamnaen' (कामनाएं). In the oblique case (with postpositions), it becomes 'Kamnaon' (कामनाओं).

Yes, 'Kamna' is a common female name in India, meaning 'wish' or 'desire'.

The opposite can be 'Aniccha' (lack of desire) or 'Virakti' (detachment/indifference).

Both are used. 'Kamna karna' means 'to wish for something' (I wish for peace). 'Shubhkamna dena' means 'to give/offer good wishes' (I gave him wishes).