I recently read an article on National Geographic’s travel blog, ‘Intelligent Travel’, about etiquette in India. I was glad to have found it as I am planning a trip to India at the end of this year, and it’s always handy to pick up on some cultural do’s and don’ts before you leave.
The first piece of advice given is to make a good first impression. It is advised to say “namaste” and bring your hands together in a prayer position when you first meet someone, rather than shaking their hand. This is so very different from the way we greet each other in Western culture, and I can’t wait to try it out. The world “namaste” means “I honour the spirit within you,” in Hindi. This is such a beautiful way to greet someone, I think.
A crowded street in India. Source: Birsha Ohdedar, Flickr
Advice is also given on crossing the busy streets in India. When crossing the street you need to be constantly looking both ways, because there is a never-ending flow of traffic, cars, animals and people. The advice that is given is “Never Stop!”
Something which I have certainly heard about before is the rule of never using your left hand for anything other than personal hygiene. I’m quite glad this rule exists, since you eat only with your hands!
Speaking of food, I feel like in our Western culture (or perhaps just in my house?) that at dinner time all the plates are pretty much licked clean at the end of a meal! In India, it is advised that if you are a guest at a meal you should leave a bit of food on your plate to show that you are full, and do not need anymore food. I’ll definitely have to remember that!
It says in the guide that most people in India speak English and Hindi, as well as their local dialect. Sometimes, the languages get mixed and people start to speak Inglish, where some funny colloquialisms are developed. My favourite in the article was, “you are a homely person,” meaning you are honest and trustworthy.
The final rule, do as the locals do! A rule that should apply, I believe, no matter where you are travelling to. This article was very straightforward and insightful, and only the very beginning of my research into my India trip.
Read the article here: Intelligent Travel: How To Make Friends and Not Alienate People In India
Alexandra Says 