In Nepal, food is more than just a necessity; it’s an experience and a strong part of the culture. One word you will commonly hear is “Khaja” (खाजा). This term has cultural roots and is widely used across the country to describe a meal between breakfast and dinner.
Khaja meaning in Nepali
The word “Khaja” (खाजा) might simply mean “lunch,” but for many Nepalis, it’s more than just a midday meal. Khaja is an integral part of the day, often served in schools, workplaces, and at home. Unlike a full dinner, Khaja is lighter but nourishing enough to get people through the day. Common foods for Khaja include beaten rice (chiura), curry, roti, tea, and snacks like samosas or momos.
Example Sentences Using “Khaja”
Here are some sentences that illustrate how to use “Khaja” in daily conversation.
English: I am going to eat lunch.
Nepali: Ma khaja khana jaadai chu. (म खाजा खान जाँदैछु।)
English: Did you have lunch today?
Nepali: Timi le aaja khaja khayau? (तिमीले आज खाजा खायौ?)
English: Lunch time is usually around 2 pm.
Nepali: Khaja khane samaya praye dueso dwe baje huncha. (खाजा खाने समय प्राय दिउँसो २ बजे हुन्छ।)
English: My mother prepares lunch for the whole family.
Nepali: Meri aama le pura pariwaar ko lagi khaja banaunu huncha.(मेरी आमाले पूरा परिवारको लागि खाजा बनाउनुहुन्छ।)
English: Let’s have some lunch before starting work.
Nepali: Kaam suru garnu bhanda pahile khaja khauu. (काम शुरु गर्नु भन्दा पहिले खाजा खाउँ।)
Cultural Context of “Khaja” in Nepal
In Nepal, the concept of “Khaja” (खाजा) or lunch varies widely depending on the region, lifestyle, and occupation. Unlike many places where lunch is a set meal around noon, in Nepal, the time and type of food people refer to as “Khaja” can be different. “Khaja” in Nepal is more than just lunch; it also represents the country’s agricultural lifestyle. Farmers and workers often take a Khaja break mid-morning or early afternoon to recharge.
In urban areas like Kathmandu, lunch or Khaja time is typically around noon. Office-goers, students, and workers often have their Khaja break around 1 to 2 p.m., aligning with a more structured work or school schedule.
Foods Commonly Eaten as “Khaja”
In Nepal, Khaja typically includes a mix of light and nutritious items, such as:
Chiura (Beaten Rice): A staple food, chiura is often paired with curry, chana (chickpeas), achar (pickles), alutama or meat etc.
Aalu kawab: Spicy potato curry, a popular item enjoyed during lunch mostly with beaten rice.
Samosa and Pakoda: Fried snacks filled with spiced potatoes and vegetables.
Momos: Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat (mostly buff or chicken) or vegetables, widely enjoyed as a part of Khaja.
Other: chowmin, biscuits, bread, roti, bara, chatamri (sometimes people also call it Nepali pizza) etc.
Why knowing “khaja” Is useful for visitors
For those visiting Nepal, understanding the term “Khaja” can enrich the experience. Many local eateries and tea shops serve Khaja items, and knowing the term helps you order confidently.
Conclusion
Understanding “Khaja” in Nepali goes beyond knowing it as a term for “lunch”. It opens up a window to Nepali culture, emphasizing the importance of food in daily life and community. Whether you’re visiting Nepal or learning the language, knowing “Khaja” and how to use it will add flavor to your Nepali experience.