July 5, 2025 • 28 mins
In this episode of The CultureHug Podcast, we break down key cultural practices in India—from the meaning behind the head wobble to dining etiquette, business customs, greetings like “Namaste,” and more. With insights from Indian voices, we answer the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask—so you can build trust, show respect, and connect across cultures with confidence.
Sources:
Commisceo Global. (n.d.). Why do Indians Nod their Head When Speaking?
Cook, S. (2024, September 2). 12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts: What Not to Do in India. TripSavvy.
Cooperrider, K. (in press). Universals and diversity in gesture: Research past, present, and future. Gesture.
Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas. (2017, May). Cultural aspects of doing business in India.
Diana, D. (n.d.). Role of Non-Verbal Communication in India. Scribd.
Giuffré, R. (2024, May 2). Indian Head Wobble. REMO Since 1988.
Jain, R. (2025, May 20). India Dining Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts. Culture Trip.
Mukherjee, A. (2017, December 30). Why Do Indians Shake Their Heads? Culture Trip.
Natural Habitat Adventures. (n.d.). India's Cultural Do's and Don'ts.
Outhwaite, A. (2024, May 15). Dress Code of India – What to Wear in India. A Life Well Travelled.
Panani, R. (2024, August 27). A Guide to Indian Etiquette. COUNTRY SQUIRE INDIA.
Shete, A. (2025, May 16). Cultural Etiquette in India for Foreigners: Do’s and Don’ts. India Someday Travels.
Turban Adventures Blog. (2024, February 29). What are The Different Ways of Greetings in India?
Sources:
Commisceo Global. (n.d.). Why do Indians Nod their Head When Speaking?
Cook, S. (2024, September 2). 12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts: What Not to Do in India. TripSavvy.
Cooperrider, K. (in press). Universals and diversity in gesture: Research past, present, and future. Gesture.
Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas. (2017, May). Cultural aspects of doing business in India.
Diana, D. (n.d.). Role of Non-Verbal Communication in India. Scribd.
Giuffré, R. (2024, May 2). Indian Head Wobble. REMO Since 1988.
Jain, R. (2025, May 20). India Dining Etiquette: The Dos and Don'ts. Culture Trip.
Mukherjee, A. (2017, December 30). Why Do Indians Shake Their Heads? Culture Trip.
Natural Habitat Adventures. (n.d.). India's Cultural Do's and Don'ts.
Outhwaite, A. (2024, May 15). Dress Code of India – What to Wear in India. A Life Well Travelled.
Panani, R. (2024, August 27). A Guide to Indian Etiquette. COUNTRY SQUIRE INDIA.
Shete, A. (2025, May 16). Cultural Etiquette in India for Foreigners: Do’s and Don’ts. India Someday Travels.
Turban Adventures Blog. (2024, February 29). What are The Different Ways of Greetings in India?
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:01):
In the Quiet Place, Wisha words on food like whispers in.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
The to.
Speaker 1 (00:15):
Who we start. Welcome to the Culture Hook podcast, your
space to learn and learn and grow one hug in
one episode at a time.
Speaker 2 (00:27):
Today we're diving into something truly fascinating, a request that
actually came directly from any of you. Oh really yeah,
understanding and you know, connecting with people from India, especially
for those of you maybe not from India originally, right,
this is sort of your shortcut hopefully to truly appreciating
their unique culture and values. We're going to try and
tackle some questions that well maybe people are a bit
(00:50):
afraid to ask sometimes. And we're doing this by drawing
insights from sources that really delve deeply into Indian perspectives.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
That's spot on. And India is I mean, it's an
incredibly diverse country. You've got thousands of ethnic groups, languages, traditions,
it's a whole tapestry. Absolutely, So our mission in this
really is to break down some key cultural practices and
importantly nonverbal cues. Okay, think of it as a guide
just to help you navigate interactions with a bit more
(01:18):
confidence and crucially respect.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I love that framing so let's unpack this and get
started on this journey to cultural fluency. Okay, So, when
you first meet someone, first impressions they really count, don't they.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
They really do.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
Let's start right there with greetings. What's the most common
sort of universally accepted way to say hello in India?
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Well, the customary greeting, the one you'll see most often
is namasta or namascar.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
Right, Namasta, I've heard that exactly.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
It involves bringing your palms together, fingers pointing upwards, usually
before your face or maybe your chest, and it's often
accompanied by a slight bow of the head. And you know,
a warm smile helps too.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
Nice.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Now, while his origins are traditionally Hindu, it's really evolved.
It's now widely adopted as a secular gesture of respect
right across India, a true symbol of welcome. Really.
Speaker 2 (02:09):
Okay, so namastay is pretty safe across.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
The board generally, yes, very What about.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Physical contact then, like handshakes, are they common or should
you maybe hold back a bit?
Speaker 1 (02:19):
That's a great question. Shaking hands is definitely becoming more common.
You'll see it more in urban areas and perhaps among
westernized individuals. Okay, However, The key nuance here, and this
is quite important for listeners, often revolves around gender.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
Ah.
Speaker 1 (02:37):
Right, men may quite comfortably shake hands with other men.
That's pretty standard in business settings, now okay, But for
interactions between men and women, it's generally advised and safer
to wait. Let the Indian woman offer her hand first.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Good tip.
Speaker 1 (02:53):
If she doesn't. A simple noma stay or even just
the polite nod of the head is perfectly appropriate and
you know, well received.
Speaker 2 (03:00):
Offense taken and other physical contact hugging, stuff like that.
Speaker 1 (03:04):
Generally no public displays of affection like hugging or kissing
are usually discouraged. They might be frowned upon, especially more
conservative settings. Right. Interestingly, though, holding hands with some of
the same sex, say two male friends walking along or
two female friends, that's often seen purely as a friendly gesture.
Oh interesting, Yeah, romantic That can sometimes surprise Western observers.
Speaker 2 (03:24):
Here, yeah, I can see that. Now here's something that
gets really interesting for many listeners. And I admit a
source of polite confusion sometimes the uncle and auntie thing. Ah, yes,
I've heard about this, But can you explain why some
younger Indians call adults they know by these terms? Even
if they aren't actual relatives. What's really going on there?
Speaker 1 (03:47):
That's a fantastic question and it speaks volumes, truly volumes
about the overwhelming importance of the family unit in India.
Indians often try to sort of fit everyone into a
family like relationship slode.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
It's about connection, right, creating a familiar structure exactly.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
So if you're called uncle or auntie, it's an overture
of friendliness, yes, but also deep respect. It's like they're
welcoming you into an extended family dynamic.
Speaker 2 (04:11):
Wow. So it signifies a kind of familial bond, even
without blood ties precisely.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
And what's fascinating and maybe a bit tricky is that
refusing it? Well, it can sometimes be considered quite rude. Yeah,
unless you explicitly, but you know, very politely ask them
maybe to call you by your first name or a.
Speaker 2 (04:28):
Nickname, Okay, handle with care then.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
Definitely, And this ties directly into the immense respect given
to elders in India. This difference isn't just about surface politeness.
It profoundly shapes social interactions professional ones too, how so
well it influences decision making, especially in those family run businesses.
You hear about where the patriarch's word often holds ultimate sway,
(04:51):
I see and you'll observe elders typically entering and leaving
rooms first, being the first to be seated or served food.
It's a really found national pillar of their social structure.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
So it seems like from the very first moment you
meet someone, whether it's navigating the hand shape or understanding
the unclownty thing, respect and context are just absolutely paramount. Absolutely,
and that deep cultural context it seems to extend profoundly
into nonverbal cues too, doesn't it.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
Oh. Absolutely, It's a huge part of the communication tapestry
in India. Huge.
Speaker 2 (05:22):
All right, let's talk about the big one, the famous
and let's be honest, often confusing Indian head wobble or
head bobble chuckles.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
The head wobble.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
It's almost a cultural icon for many foreigners. Right, but
what does it actually mean? It feels like it could
mean almost anything.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
Ah, the head wobble. Yes, it truly is one of
the most distinctive forms of nonverbal communication there. And you're right,
it can have multiple meanings, very dependent on the context. Okay,
it's that side to side tilting of the head almost
like an inverted pendulum. That's a good way to think of.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
That inverted pendulum like that, and it can.
Speaker 1 (06:00):
Mean yes, good, maybe okay, or even I understand.
Speaker 2 (06:05):
Wow. That's a lot for one gesture.
Speaker 1 (06:07):
It is, and it's also used sometimes as an encouraging
gesture while someone's listening to you, like hmmm, keep going,
or even as a polite, subtle form of thank you.
Speaker 2 (06:15):
Okay. That's a brilliant description and inverted pendulum. But for
someone encountering it for the first time, like many listening,
it must be incredibly baffling. It can be initially you said,
it can mean yes, good, maybe okay. How do you
avoid a complete miscommunication? What does this harmony yes thing
(06:35):
you sometimes hear about truly signify in a practical sense,
maybe in a business negotiation, with a.
Speaker 1 (06:41):
Harmony yes, that's a term people often use to describe it.
It really signifies a subconscious attempt to harmonize with the
other person, to acknowledge their statement or request okay without
necessarily giving a direct, absolute commitment, especially if there's some
uncertainty involved.
Speaker 2 (06:58):
Ah. So it's not always a firm yes.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
Not always. For instance, imagine you ask can you finish
this report by Friday and you get a wobble back. Yeah,
it might mean something like I shall certainly attempt to
and I'll do my absolute best, implying, you know, a
blend of commitment, but also acknowledging the role of maybe
karma karma okay, the spiritual idea of causing the fact,
sometimes implying things are a bit out of one's hands,
perhaps jew God, what's that? It means like a frugal,
(07:23):
innovative solution, finding a clever work around, sometimes unconventionally if
unexpected delays pop up.
Speaker 2 (07:29):
Oh, okay, resourcefulness exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
It's all about maintaining a positive social interaction, avoiding causing
disappointment directly. A more vigorous wobble, though that usually suggests
excitement or enthusiastic agreement, while a small, very subtle wobble
might just show respect, simple acknowledgment, or even be a
polite indirect way of declining something without actually saying the
(07:53):
word no.
Speaker 2 (07:55):
That reluctance to say no, that that seems key.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
It is. It's deeply in Indian culture as a way
to save face both for the speaker and the listener
and avoid causing disappointment, which as you can imagine, can
be very confusing for people from what we call low context.
Speaker 2 (08:11):
Cultures like many Western cultures, right where we expect direct answers.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Precisely places where communication is typically very direct and explicit,
and interestingly, most Indians are often completely unaware. They even
do the head wobble. It's that ingrained.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
It sounds like there's this strong emphasis on indirectness, which
for some listeners might feel well, less efficient, maybe even
a bit of vasive.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
I can see why I might seem that way.
Speaker 2 (08:34):
How do you reconcile that with, say, a fast paced
global business environment where clarity and directness are often prized.
Speaker 1 (08:41):
It really comes down to learning to read between the lines,
you know, and understanding that what seems indirect from one
perspective is actually a form of polite and harmonious communication
from another.
Speaker 2 (08:54):
So observe more yes.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
In a business context, it might mean confirming in reconfirming things,
perhaps asking the same question in a few different ways tactfully,
of course, or paying more attention to actions taken rather
than just the words spoken. Okay, if you learn to
interpret the context, it definitely requires patience and maybe a
bit of shift.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
In perspective makes sense now be on the wabble. Are
there other nonverbal cues? We should absolutely be aware of
things that could cause accidental offense.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
Oh, absolutely, several important ones. One of the biggest relates
to hands cans. Okay, The left hand is generally considered unclean.
The stems from historical hygiene practices really, where the left
hand was traditionally used for personal ablutions. Yeah, I see,
so it became ritually impure for things like food or
social contact. The rule is always use your right hand
(09:46):
when giving or accepting objects, touching people, or crucially eating food.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
Right hand only for food. Got it?
Speaker 1 (09:53):
And actually using both hands together to give or receive
something that scene is even more respectful. It signals a
high level of.
Speaker 2 (10:00):
Deference, both hands for extra respect.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
Okay. Similarly, feet are considered very dirty. They touch the
ground so richly impure. Never step over a person who
might be sitting or lying down, right, don't touch anything
important with your feet, and definitely don't point the soles
of your feet towards religious alters or even directly at people.
Speaker 2 (10:18):
Okay, be mindful of the feet. What if you accidentally
bump someone's feet?
Speaker 1 (10:21):
Good question. If that happens, the immediate polite response is
to quickly apologize, often by touching your own forehead or
eyes with your right hand. It acknowledges the accidental transgression.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
Wow, okay, that's specific.
Speaker 1 (10:35):
It is pointing too, using your index finger to point
directly at someone, very rude.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
So how do you gesture?
Speaker 1 (10:40):
You typically gesture with your chin like a little nod
in that direction, or use your whole open hand palm up,
or maybe your thumb with the whole hand, much more polite.
Speaker 2 (10:50):
Okay, chin or whole hand, not the finger exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:53):
Another to common mix up waving. You know how we
might wave to say hello or goodbye.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (10:58):
In India, that same gesture often means go away or
come here, depending on context, but usually not hello. It
can lead to some comical misunderstandings.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Oh dear, I can imagine.
Speaker 1 (11:09):
And there are many other specific hand gestures too, like
raising your pinky finger can signal you need to use
the bathroom. Really the pinky yep or flicking your fingertips
outwards can convey something as rubbish or worthless. It's truly
a rich, expressive visual language that carries a lot of
cultural weight. You pick it up as you go.
Speaker 2 (11:28):
That's a fantastic overview of how we present ourselves and
communicate non verbally. Super useful. Now let's talk about the
practicalities of etiquette, things like how we dress, how we interact.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
Over a meal, right the social graces?
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Exactly what should one wear in India? Does it change
much if you're visiting, say, a religious site, versus just
being out in the city or even at the beach.
Speaker 1 (11:51):
India's dress code is incredibly diverse. As you'd expect, It's
deeply influenced by the climate, which varies hugely local religion
and social norms. But generally speaking, modesty is highly appreciated
and frankly advisable, particularly if you're visiting religious sites temples, mosques, gurdwaras,
or traveling in more conservative rural areas.
Speaker 2 (12:13):
So what does modest typically mean for women?
Speaker 1 (12:16):
For women, it generally means covering your shoulders, cleavage and knees.
Think longer skirts are trousers and tops with sleeves. Carrying
a shawl or a large scarf is highly recommended. It's
incredibly versatile for covering up quickly when needed, like entering
a temple.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
Good tip the scarf and footwear.
Speaker 1 (12:33):
Wearing sandals or slip on shoes is really practical. You'll
often need to remove your shoes before entering temples or
sometimes even people's homes. Makes sense.
Speaker 2 (12:40):
Easy on, easy off.
Speaker 1 (12:42):
Exactly now. While Western attire like jeans and T shirts
is pretty common, especially in big cities, wearing traditional Indian
clothes like a sari or a salwar camiz uh huh
is widely accepted, of course, but can even be met
with delight when worn respectfully by foreigners. People often appreciate
the effort.
Speaker 2 (13:02):
That's nice to know. What about beaches you mentioned, context
is key, right.
Speaker 1 (13:05):
Beaches, especially in tourist hubs like Goa. Bikinis and swimsuits
are generally accepted on the main tourist beaches, right, but
be prepared for stairs it might still happen.
Speaker 2 (13:16):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
However, if you go to more local beaches or city
beaches like in Mumbai or Tennai, it's very different. Women
they're rarely swim in bikinis. You're more likely to see
them in the water wearing T shirts and loose trousers
or leggings.
Speaker 2 (13:29):
Wow, Okay, big difference depending on location.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
Huge difference. For men, it's usually simpler jeans and a
T shirt. Are generally fine almost anywhere, though lightweight trousers
are often much more comfortable in the heat than tick denim.
Good point and shorts are usually acceptable, particularly in larger
cities or warmer regions, but maybe not for visiting a
very formal place or a religious site. Just use common sense.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
Okay, any specific color, no, nos Ah?
Speaker 1 (13:56):
Yes, one specific thing for women, Try to avoid wearing
an outfit that is entirely white to social functions like
weddings or parties. Why is that because in some Hindu communities,
white is the color traditionally associated with mourning, particularly for widows,
so best to avoid it for celebrations.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Okay, that's a really crucial detail. Avoid all white for parties.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
Got it exactly.
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Now we've covered personal presentation, let's shift to sort of
the exchange of generosity, which seems so central to Indian hospitality,
moving from how we look to how we connect. What
happens if you're invited into someone's home or even in
a business setting. Is gift giving expected?
Speaker 1 (14:36):
Great question. If you're invited to someone's home for a meal, yes,
it's customary and very appreciated to bring a small gift,
like what a box of sweets, especially good quality Indian sweets.
Methai is always a safe and welcome choice. Flowers are
good too, Okay, sweets are flowers. Gifts from your own
country are also often appreciated. They have that personal touch
showing you thought about it.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Nice idea.
Speaker 1 (14:58):
However, a really crucial point here is to be mindful
of potential religious dietary restriction ah right, Like avoid gifting
alcohol if you're unsure whether they drink. Definitely avoid anything
containing beef if your hosts are Hindu as cows are sacred,
and avoid pork products if they are Muslim.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
Okay, So check or err on the side of caution.
Sweets are safest.
Speaker 1 (15:23):
Sweets are generally very safe. Yes. Also, it's worth noting
Indians typically won't open gifts immediately in your presence. Oh,
it can sometimes be seen as impolite or perhaps overly eager,
maybe even greedy. They'll usually open it later privately. Don't
be offended by that.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
Okay, good to know. Don't expect them to rip it
open right there exactly now.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
In a business context, giving gifts isn't always expected at
a very first meeting, but later on, as a relationship develops,
it will certainly be appreciated. You need to be quite
sensitive though, to the distinction between a thoughtful gift and
something that might be perceived as a bribe, especially when
dealing with government of be very careful there.
Speaker 2 (16:01):
So, what kind of business gifts are appropriate?
Speaker 1 (16:04):
Simple, good quality branded items are common and safe. Things
like a nice clock for the office, a good pen,
maybe something representative of your company or country.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Okay, what about money?
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Monetary gifts are quite common for personal celebrations like weddings
or festivals. If you do give cash, it's considered auspicious.
If the amount ends in.
Speaker 2 (16:25):
A one ends in a one, like fifty one or
one hundred and one rupees.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Exactly fifty one one one five oho one. That extra
single rupee is seen as a token of good luck
and blessings for the future. Fascinating, But avoid giving overly
expensive gifts, whether cash or items, might cause embarrassment or
imply kind of obligation which you want to avoid.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Right, keep it thoughtful but modest, precisely and dining etiquette.
You mentioned using the right hand. What else should we
know about meals? It sounds like there are quite a
few customs.
Speaker 1 (16:53):
You're right, there are when eating especially if food is
primarily consumed by hand, which is for many Indian cuisines. Yeah,
you'll always be expected to wash your hands thoroughly before
the meal and usually afterwards. Too often a wash basin
or finger bowl is provided.
Speaker 2 (17:10):
Okay, hygiene first makes sense.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
And absolutely remember use only your right hand for eating
and for accepting food, even if you're left handed. Naturally,
this is really non negotiable socially.
Speaker 2 (17:23):
Okay, drill that in right hand only, definitely.
Speaker 1 (17:26):
Also, it's not uncommon for your hosts to sit and
want you eat, especially if you're a guest.
Speaker 2 (17:31):
Oh, that might feel a bit awkward for some people.
Speaker 1 (17:34):
It can feel that way initially, but try not to
be uncomfortable. It usually comes from a place of immense
pride in their hospitality and wanting to ensure you're enjoying everything.
Speaker 2 (17:43):
Okay, So just relax and enjoy the food exactly.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
And you're not usually required to finish every single last
bite on your plate, unlike in some cultures. Leaving a
small amount can even indicate you're full and satisfied.
Speaker 2 (17:53):
Ah, Okay, that's good to know.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
And if you're offered tea or snacks during a meeting,
brief one It's always courteous to accept, even if you
just take a small sip or a tiny piece.
Speaker 2 (18:05):
Why is accepting so important.
Speaker 1 (18:08):
Because Indians are incredibly hospitable people. Hospitality is a huge
cultural value. Openly refusing food or drink that's offered can
sometimes cause unintended offense, as they see offering it as
a core part of their welcoming gesture.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
So accept graciously even a little bit.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
That's the best approach. Business meals are common to Lunch
and dinner are often preferred times for longer discussions, right,
and always just check preferences beforehand. As we mentioned, many
Indians are strictly vegetarian and many Hindus do not eat beef,
so just clarifying dietary needs is always a good idea.
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Okay, we've covered a lot of really practical ground there, greetings, gestures, dress, gifts, food.
But beyond these day to day interactions and specific etiquettes,
what about some of the deeper cultural aspects, things that
can really help us understand the Indian way of thinking.
Maybe they're underlying values.
Speaker 1 (18:58):
That's a great direction to go. Yes, there are definitely
some deeper currents. One really significant aspect is the role
of hierarchy.
Speaker 2 (19:06):
Hierarchy, okay, how does that play out?
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Indian society traditionally and often still today operates within a
framework where hierarchy is quite clearly defined and respected. Age, seniority,
social status, these things are highly valued.
Speaker 2 (19:21):
More so than in some Western cultures.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
Perhaps generally, yes, the deference is often more explicit. This
extends profoundly into business settings as well. Senior colleagues, bosses,
elders within a company are typically obeyed and shown a
high degree of respect.
Speaker 2 (19:36):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (19:37):
And decisions, especially in those family run businesses which are
incredibly prevalent.
Speaker 2 (19:42):
Across India, right, you mentioned those.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
They're often made by the eldest male member, the patriarch,
and sometimes loyalty to the family or the senior person
can be seen as even more important than formal qualifications
on paper. It's a system built on established lines of
authority and personal loyalty.
Speaker 2 (19:57):
That's a really different dynamic for maybe a Western manager
to navigate.
Speaker 1 (20:01):
It can be understanding that respect for seniority is crucial.
Also related to social structure is the caste system.
Speaker 2 (20:09):
Ah. Yes, that's something people hear about but might not
understand well.
Speaker 1 (20:13):
Right, It's important to know it's officially outlawed by the
Indian constitution. Discrimination based on caste is illegal.
Speaker 2 (20:20):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (20:21):
However, historically it was a deeply entrenched system of social
stratification dividing society into hereditary groups. And while its influence
is significantly breaking down, especially in urban centers and among
younger generations, its legacy can still subtly influence social interactions,
maybe marriage choices or even opportunities in some rural areas
(20:42):
or within certain traditional family contexts. It's very complex and
sensitive topic.
Speaker 2 (20:46):
So handle with sensitivity, but be aware of the historical
context exactly.
Speaker 1 (20:50):
Awareness helps in appreciating the nuanced social fabric without needing
to get into its incredibly complex history during a brief interaction.
Just be mindful it exists as a historical fact that.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
Really adds another layer to understanding social dynamics. And related
to that, maybe another area that sometimes creates friction or
confusion for outsiders is punctuality.
Speaker 1 (21:11):
Huh time chuckles, Yeah, what.
Speaker 2 (21:13):
About punctuality and how does that factor into things like
negotiations in a business setting?
Speaker 1 (21:19):
Okay, punctuality. Indians do appreciate punctuality, especially for formal meetings
scheduled in advance. Being on time is respected.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
But there's a butt, isn't there?
Speaker 1 (21:30):
Lefts there's often a butt there also, shall we say
somewhat known for late rivals. Some people playfully refer to
it as ist Indian standard time.
Speaker 2 (21:40):
Right, I've heard that phrase.
Speaker 1 (21:41):
Plans can often be contingent on other events or reliant
on other people who might be delayed themselves. There's often
a greater acceptance of flexibility. Perhaps things don't always run
like clockwork, so.
Speaker 2 (21:52):
How should you handle that? Don't take offense.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
I definitely don't take offense. It's usually not personal. But
if time is critical for your schedule for specific reason,
it's perfectly okay to make that clear politely, maybe in advance,
perhaps even send a gentle reminder an hour or so
before the meeting. That's quite acceptable.
Speaker 2 (22:09):
And in business discussions, does this flexibility extend the negotiation
process itself?
Speaker 1 (22:14):
It often does. Business discussions frequently begin with a period
of small talk, sometimes quite extended, building rapport first, exactly,
Building that personal connection and trust is often seen as
a prerequisite before diving into the serious business negotiations. Relationships
matter a lot.
Speaker 2 (22:32):
So don't rush into the agenda immediately.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
Probably not the best approach no, and the negotiations themselves
can sometimes feel slow to outsiders. They might rely on intuition,
on gut feeling as much as on hard data and scudsheets. Interesting,
and it's common to expect a process of give and
take concessions back and forth. It's part of the dance.
And remember what we talked about earlier that direct no
is often avoided, right. The indirectness responses might be more diplomatic,
(22:59):
perhaps a bit ambiguous. You might hear we will try
or let me see instead of a flat refusal.
Speaker 2 (23:06):
I remember you mentioned an example where a Western business
person got frustrated.
Speaker 1 (23:10):
By that Yes. They kept getting these indirect nos, maybe
the head wobble or I will try my very best,
and they initially interpreted it as stalling or being strung along.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Ye.
Speaker 1 (23:21):
But for the Indian counterpart, it was likely about preserving harmony,
about not wanting to shut down the conversation completely, maybe
hoping to find an alternative solution, rather than just giving
a blunt, potentially disappointing no. It's a different communication style.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
That's a great example of the high context communication we discussed.
Really need to read the situation you do.
Speaker 1 (23:42):
Finally, let's just briefly touch on communication beyond gestures. What
about language itself, specifically Indian English. It's English, but I
hear it can still be a bit tricky sometimes for
non Indians.
Speaker 2 (23:55):
Yeah, accents can be challenging anywhere. But are there other things?
Speaker 1 (23:59):
Well? Yes. While English is very widely spoken, especially in
business and education, the Indian English accent, or rather the
many diverse accents, can sometimes be difficult for foreigners to understand,
particularly when spoken quickly. Also, the style tends to be
a bit more proper, perhaps more formal, often using slightly
more elaborate vocabulary than say, contemporary American English.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
More formal.
Speaker 1 (24:23):
Okay, and you're right, it's not just the accent. There's
almost a unique lexicon that has developed. You might hear
unique terms.
Speaker 2 (24:30):
Like what give us some examples?
Speaker 1 (24:32):
Okay? Well, you might hear someone refer to a huge
mistake as a Himalayan blunder.
Speaker 2 (24:38):
Himalayan blunder chickles. I like that right, very descriptive. Or
the word go down is often used for a warehouse.
That's a term dating back to colonial times that's still
quite common.
Speaker 1 (24:50):
Goo down for warehouse, okay.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Or common phrases like cousin brother or cousin's sister.
Speaker 1 (24:55):
Ah instead of just cousin.
Speaker 2 (24:57):
Why is that It's simply to specify the gender, which
English doesn't do with the word cousin. It's just a
clear way of putting it in their context.
Speaker 1 (25:04):
Makes sense. What if you really don't understand what someone's saying.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
Oh, it's perfectly fine to politely ask them to repeat themselves,
perhaps a little more slowly, or to rephrase something.
Speaker 1 (25:15):
It's not rude to ask, not at all. In fact,
it shows you're engaged in making an effort to understand properly.
Most people will be happy to clarify. No offense will
be taken.
Speaker 2 (25:26):
That's reassuring. It sounds like there are quite a few
charming unique phrases that might sneak in there too, Any
other fun examples that might trip up a listener.
Speaker 1 (25:35):
Oh, there are many, you might hear. The verb propone
uses the opposite of postpone, meaning to bring something forward in.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
Time per pone, okay, logical, or.
Speaker 1 (25:43):
The phrase do the needful, which essentially just means do
what is necessary or take the required action. Mmm. Sounds
a bit quaint, perhaps, but it's very common.
Speaker 2 (25:52):
Do the needful?
Speaker 1 (25:53):
Got it, or even asking someone what is your good
name insteadist what is your name?
Speaker 2 (25:58):
Good name?
Speaker 1 (25:58):
Yes, it's considered a very very polite, respectful way to ask.
It just adds a little bit of delightful color to
the language, I think, and once you get the hang
of these little nuances, they're actually quite endearing.
Speaker 2 (26:10):
This has been absolutely fascinating, an incredible deep dive into
understanding and hopefully better connecting with Indian culture.
Speaker 1 (26:17):
It's been a pleasure.
Speaker 2 (26:18):
From the subtle art of the head wobble and the
real significance of uncle and auntie all the way through
to the importance of respecting elders and navigating those social
graces around gifts and food. It's really clear that a
little bit of understanding goes a very very long way.
Speaker 1 (26:34):
Indeed it does, and the insights we've shared today drawn
directly from sources really embedded in Indian cultural practices. They
highlight that while yes, there's immense diversity across India, huge diversity,
there are also these unifying threads, themes of hospitality, deep
respect for elders, in hierarchy, and this wonderfully rich nonverbal
(26:55):
and verbal language. It's really about looking beyond the surface. Assumptions.
Speaker 2 (26:59):
So what is does this all mean for you listening
right now? Well, next time you interact with someone from India,
try to remember some of these insights. Observe, listen actively,
try to understand the context behind the words or actions.
Embrace the nuances, maybe even the ambiguities sometimes and you
might just unlock a deeper, more meaningful connection, something that
goes beyond just politeness towards genuine understanding and appreciation.
Speaker 1 (27:22):
Absolutely, and perhaps here's a final thought to leave you with.
Consider how that reluctance to say no directly which we discussed,
the thing that's often seen as a challenge or confusing
by outsiders, might it actually be, in its own way,
a profound expression of empathy, a deep seated desire to
maintain harmony within relationships above all else.
Speaker 2 (27:44):
That's a really interesting way to reframe it.
Speaker 1 (27:46):
What other cultural behaviors anywhere in the world, perhaps that
seem perplexing or inefficient at first glance, might actually hold
similar deeper meanings of connection, empathy, or social harmony, if
only we paused long enough to explore them together. Here
(28:10):
we start to learn
In the Quiet Place, Wisha words on food like whispers in.
Speaker 2 (00:10):
The to.
Speaker 1 (00:15):
Who we start. Welcome to the Culture Hook podcast, your
space to learn and learn and grow one hug in
one episode at a time.
Speaker 2 (00:27):
Today we're diving into something truly fascinating, a request that
actually came directly from any of you. Oh really yeah,
understanding and you know, connecting with people from India, especially
for those of you maybe not from India originally, right,
this is sort of your shortcut hopefully to truly appreciating
their unique culture and values. We're going to try and
tackle some questions that well maybe people are a bit
(00:50):
afraid to ask sometimes. And we're doing this by drawing
insights from sources that really delve deeply into Indian perspectives.
Speaker 1 (00:57):
That's spot on. And India is I mean, it's an
incredibly diverse country. You've got thousands of ethnic groups, languages, traditions,
it's a whole tapestry. Absolutely, So our mission in this
really is to break down some key cultural practices and
importantly nonverbal cues. Okay, think of it as a guide
just to help you navigate interactions with a bit more
(01:18):
confidence and crucially respect.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I love that framing so let's unpack this and get
started on this journey to cultural fluency. Okay, So, when
you first meet someone, first impressions they really count, don't they.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
They really do.
Speaker 2 (01:34):
Let's start right there with greetings. What's the most common
sort of universally accepted way to say hello in India?
Speaker 1 (01:41):
Well, the customary greeting, the one you'll see most often
is namasta or namascar.
Speaker 2 (01:46):
Right, Namasta, I've heard that exactly.
Speaker 1 (01:48):
It involves bringing your palms together, fingers pointing upwards, usually
before your face or maybe your chest, and it's often
accompanied by a slight bow of the head. And you know,
a warm smile helps too.
Speaker 2 (01:59):
Nice.
Speaker 1 (02:00):
Now, while his origins are traditionally Hindu, it's really evolved.
It's now widely adopted as a secular gesture of respect
right across India, a true symbol of welcome. Really.
Speaker 2 (02:09):
Okay, so namastay is pretty safe across.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
The board generally, yes, very What about.
Speaker 2 (02:14):
Physical contact then, like handshakes, are they common or should
you maybe hold back a bit?
Speaker 1 (02:19):
That's a great question. Shaking hands is definitely becoming more common.
You'll see it more in urban areas and perhaps among
westernized individuals. Okay, However, The key nuance here, and this
is quite important for listeners, often revolves around gender.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
Ah.
Speaker 1 (02:37):
Right, men may quite comfortably shake hands with other men.
That's pretty standard in business settings, now okay, But for
interactions between men and women, it's generally advised and safer
to wait. Let the Indian woman offer her hand first.
Speaker 2 (02:52):
Good tip.
Speaker 1 (02:53):
If she doesn't. A simple noma stay or even just
the polite nod of the head is perfectly appropriate and
you know, well received.
Speaker 2 (03:00):
Offense taken and other physical contact hugging, stuff like that.
Speaker 1 (03:04):
Generally no public displays of affection like hugging or kissing
are usually discouraged. They might be frowned upon, especially more
conservative settings. Right. Interestingly, though, holding hands with some of
the same sex, say two male friends walking along or
two female friends, that's often seen purely as a friendly gesture.
Oh interesting, Yeah, romantic That can sometimes surprise Western observers.
Speaker 2 (03:24):
Here, yeah, I can see that. Now here's something that
gets really interesting for many listeners. And I admit a
source of polite confusion sometimes the uncle and auntie thing. Ah, yes,
I've heard about this, But can you explain why some
younger Indians call adults they know by these terms? Even
if they aren't actual relatives. What's really going on there?
Speaker 1 (03:47):
That's a fantastic question and it speaks volumes, truly volumes
about the overwhelming importance of the family unit in India.
Indians often try to sort of fit everyone into a
family like relationship slode.
Speaker 2 (04:00):
It's about connection, right, creating a familiar structure exactly.
Speaker 1 (04:03):
So if you're called uncle or auntie, it's an overture
of friendliness, yes, but also deep respect. It's like they're
welcoming you into an extended family dynamic.
Speaker 2 (04:11):
Wow. So it signifies a kind of familial bond, even
without blood ties precisely.
Speaker 1 (04:16):
And what's fascinating and maybe a bit tricky is that
refusing it? Well, it can sometimes be considered quite rude. Yeah,
unless you explicitly, but you know, very politely ask them
maybe to call you by your first name or a.
Speaker 2 (04:28):
Nickname, Okay, handle with care then.
Speaker 1 (04:30):
Definitely, And this ties directly into the immense respect given
to elders in India. This difference isn't just about surface politeness.
It profoundly shapes social interactions professional ones too, how so
well it influences decision making, especially in those family run businesses.
You hear about where the patriarch's word often holds ultimate sway,
(04:51):
I see and you'll observe elders typically entering and leaving
rooms first, being the first to be seated or served food.
It's a really found national pillar of their social structure.
Speaker 2 (05:02):
So it seems like from the very first moment you
meet someone, whether it's navigating the hand shape or understanding
the unclownty thing, respect and context are just absolutely paramount. Absolutely,
and that deep cultural context it seems to extend profoundly
into nonverbal cues too, doesn't it.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
Oh. Absolutely, It's a huge part of the communication tapestry
in India. Huge.
Speaker 2 (05:22):
All right, let's talk about the big one, the famous
and let's be honest, often confusing Indian head wobble or
head bobble chuckles.
Speaker 1 (05:34):
The head wobble.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
It's almost a cultural icon for many foreigners. Right, but
what does it actually mean? It feels like it could
mean almost anything.
Speaker 1 (05:42):
Ah, the head wobble. Yes, it truly is one of
the most distinctive forms of nonverbal communication there. And you're right,
it can have multiple meanings, very dependent on the context. Okay,
it's that side to side tilting of the head almost
like an inverted pendulum. That's a good way to think of.
Speaker 2 (05:58):
That inverted pendulum like that, and it can.
Speaker 1 (06:00):
Mean yes, good, maybe okay, or even I understand.
Speaker 2 (06:05):
Wow. That's a lot for one gesture.
Speaker 1 (06:07):
It is, and it's also used sometimes as an encouraging
gesture while someone's listening to you, like hmmm, keep going,
or even as a polite, subtle form of thank you.
Speaker 2 (06:15):
Okay. That's a brilliant description and inverted pendulum. But for
someone encountering it for the first time, like many listening,
it must be incredibly baffling. It can be initially you said,
it can mean yes, good, maybe okay. How do you
avoid a complete miscommunication? What does this harmony yes thing
(06:35):
you sometimes hear about truly signify in a practical sense,
maybe in a business negotiation, with a.
Speaker 1 (06:41):
Harmony yes, that's a term people often use to describe it.
It really signifies a subconscious attempt to harmonize with the
other person, to acknowledge their statement or request okay without
necessarily giving a direct, absolute commitment, especially if there's some
uncertainty involved.
Speaker 2 (06:58):
Ah. So it's not always a firm yes.
Speaker 1 (07:00):
Not always. For instance, imagine you ask can you finish
this report by Friday and you get a wobble back. Yeah,
it might mean something like I shall certainly attempt to
and I'll do my absolute best, implying, you know, a
blend of commitment, but also acknowledging the role of maybe
karma karma okay, the spiritual idea of causing the fact,
sometimes implying things are a bit out of one's hands,
perhaps jew God, what's that? It means like a frugal,
(07:23):
innovative solution, finding a clever work around, sometimes unconventionally if
unexpected delays pop up.
Speaker 2 (07:29):
Oh, okay, resourcefulness exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
It's all about maintaining a positive social interaction, avoiding causing
disappointment directly. A more vigorous wobble, though that usually suggests
excitement or enthusiastic agreement, while a small, very subtle wobble
might just show respect, simple acknowledgment, or even be a
polite indirect way of declining something without actually saying the
(07:53):
word no.
Speaker 2 (07:55):
That reluctance to say no, that that seems key.
Speaker 1 (07:58):
It is. It's deeply in Indian culture as a way
to save face both for the speaker and the listener
and avoid causing disappointment, which as you can imagine, can
be very confusing for people from what we call low context.
Speaker 2 (08:11):
Cultures like many Western cultures, right where we expect direct answers.
Speaker 1 (08:15):
Precisely places where communication is typically very direct and explicit,
and interestingly, most Indians are often completely unaware. They even
do the head wobble. It's that ingrained.
Speaker 2 (08:24):
It sounds like there's this strong emphasis on indirectness, which
for some listeners might feel well, less efficient, maybe even
a bit of vasive.
Speaker 1 (08:32):
I can see why I might seem that way.
Speaker 2 (08:34):
How do you reconcile that with, say, a fast paced
global business environment where clarity and directness are often prized.
Speaker 1 (08:41):
It really comes down to learning to read between the lines,
you know, and understanding that what seems indirect from one
perspective is actually a form of polite and harmonious communication
from another.
Speaker 2 (08:54):
So observe more yes.
Speaker 1 (08:57):
In a business context, it might mean confirming in reconfirming things,
perhaps asking the same question in a few different ways tactfully,
of course, or paying more attention to actions taken rather
than just the words spoken. Okay, if you learn to
interpret the context, it definitely requires patience and maybe a
bit of shift.
Speaker 2 (09:13):
In perspective makes sense now be on the wabble. Are
there other nonverbal cues? We should absolutely be aware of
things that could cause accidental offense.
Speaker 1 (09:22):
Oh, absolutely, several important ones. One of the biggest relates
to hands cans. Okay, The left hand is generally considered unclean.
The stems from historical hygiene practices really, where the left
hand was traditionally used for personal ablutions. Yeah, I see,
so it became ritually impure for things like food or
social contact. The rule is always use your right hand
(09:46):
when giving or accepting objects, touching people, or crucially eating food.
Speaker 2 (09:51):
Right hand only for food. Got it?
Speaker 1 (09:53):
And actually using both hands together to give or receive
something that scene is even more respectful. It signals a
high level of.
Speaker 2 (10:00):
Deference, both hands for extra respect.
Speaker 1 (10:02):
Okay. Similarly, feet are considered very dirty. They touch the
ground so richly impure. Never step over a person who
might be sitting or lying down, right, don't touch anything
important with your feet, and definitely don't point the soles
of your feet towards religious alters or even directly at people.
Speaker 2 (10:18):
Okay, be mindful of the feet. What if you accidentally
bump someone's feet?
Speaker 1 (10:21):
Good question. If that happens, the immediate polite response is
to quickly apologize, often by touching your own forehead or
eyes with your right hand. It acknowledges the accidental transgression.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
Wow, okay, that's specific.
Speaker 1 (10:35):
It is pointing too, using your index finger to point
directly at someone, very rude.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
So how do you gesture?
Speaker 1 (10:40):
You typically gesture with your chin like a little nod
in that direction, or use your whole open hand palm up,
or maybe your thumb with the whole hand, much more polite.
Speaker 2 (10:50):
Okay, chin or whole hand, not the finger exactly.
Speaker 1 (10:53):
Another to common mix up waving. You know how we
might wave to say hello or goodbye.
Speaker 2 (10:58):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (10:58):
In India, that same gesture often means go away or
come here, depending on context, but usually not hello. It
can lead to some comical misunderstandings.
Speaker 2 (11:08):
Oh dear, I can imagine.
Speaker 1 (11:09):
And there are many other specific hand gestures too, like
raising your pinky finger can signal you need to use
the bathroom. Really the pinky yep or flicking your fingertips
outwards can convey something as rubbish or worthless. It's truly
a rich, expressive visual language that carries a lot of
cultural weight. You pick it up as you go.
Speaker 2 (11:28):
That's a fantastic overview of how we present ourselves and
communicate non verbally. Super useful. Now let's talk about the
practicalities of etiquette, things like how we dress, how we interact.
Speaker 1 (11:39):
Over a meal, right the social graces?
Speaker 2 (11:42):
Exactly what should one wear in India? Does it change
much if you're visiting, say, a religious site, versus just
being out in the city or even at the beach.
Speaker 1 (11:51):
India's dress code is incredibly diverse. As you'd expect, It's
deeply influenced by the climate, which varies hugely local religion
and social norms. But generally speaking, modesty is highly appreciated
and frankly advisable, particularly if you're visiting religious sites temples, mosques, gurdwaras,
or traveling in more conservative rural areas.
Speaker 2 (12:13):
So what does modest typically mean for women?
Speaker 1 (12:16):
For women, it generally means covering your shoulders, cleavage and knees.
Think longer skirts are trousers and tops with sleeves. Carrying
a shawl or a large scarf is highly recommended. It's
incredibly versatile for covering up quickly when needed, like entering
a temple.
Speaker 2 (12:31):
Good tip the scarf and footwear.
Speaker 1 (12:33):
Wearing sandals or slip on shoes is really practical. You'll
often need to remove your shoes before entering temples or
sometimes even people's homes. Makes sense.
Speaker 2 (12:40):
Easy on, easy off.
Speaker 1 (12:42):
Exactly now. While Western attire like jeans and T shirts
is pretty common, especially in big cities, wearing traditional Indian
clothes like a sari or a salwar camiz uh huh
is widely accepted, of course, but can even be met
with delight when worn respectfully by foreigners. People often appreciate
the effort.
Speaker 2 (13:02):
That's nice to know. What about beaches you mentioned, context
is key, right.
Speaker 1 (13:05):
Beaches, especially in tourist hubs like Goa. Bikinis and swimsuits
are generally accepted on the main tourist beaches, right, but
be prepared for stairs it might still happen.
Speaker 2 (13:16):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
However, if you go to more local beaches or city
beaches like in Mumbai or Tennai, it's very different. Women
they're rarely swim in bikinis. You're more likely to see
them in the water wearing T shirts and loose trousers
or leggings.
Speaker 2 (13:29):
Wow, Okay, big difference depending on location.
Speaker 1 (13:32):
Huge difference. For men, it's usually simpler jeans and a
T shirt. Are generally fine almost anywhere, though lightweight trousers
are often much more comfortable in the heat than tick denim.
Good point and shorts are usually acceptable, particularly in larger
cities or warmer regions, but maybe not for visiting a
very formal place or a religious site. Just use common sense.
Speaker 2 (13:52):
Okay, any specific color, no, nos Ah?
Speaker 1 (13:56):
Yes, one specific thing for women, Try to avoid wearing
an outfit that is entirely white to social functions like
weddings or parties. Why is that because in some Hindu communities,
white is the color traditionally associated with mourning, particularly for widows,
so best to avoid it for celebrations.
Speaker 2 (14:14):
Okay, that's a really crucial detail. Avoid all white for parties.
Speaker 1 (14:18):
Got it exactly.
Speaker 2 (14:19):
Now we've covered personal presentation, let's shift to sort of
the exchange of generosity, which seems so central to Indian hospitality,
moving from how we look to how we connect. What
happens if you're invited into someone's home or even in
a business setting. Is gift giving expected?
Speaker 1 (14:36):
Great question. If you're invited to someone's home for a meal, yes,
it's customary and very appreciated to bring a small gift,
like what a box of sweets, especially good quality Indian sweets.
Methai is always a safe and welcome choice. Flowers are
good too, Okay, sweets are flowers. Gifts from your own
country are also often appreciated. They have that personal touch
showing you thought about it.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Nice idea.
Speaker 1 (14:58):
However, a really crucial point here is to be mindful
of potential religious dietary restriction ah right, Like avoid gifting
alcohol if you're unsure whether they drink. Definitely avoid anything
containing beef if your hosts are Hindu as cows are sacred,
and avoid pork products if they are Muslim.
Speaker 2 (15:19):
Okay, So check or err on the side of caution.
Sweets are safest.
Speaker 1 (15:23):
Sweets are generally very safe. Yes. Also, it's worth noting
Indians typically won't open gifts immediately in your presence. Oh,
it can sometimes be seen as impolite or perhaps overly eager,
maybe even greedy. They'll usually open it later privately. Don't
be offended by that.
Speaker 2 (15:38):
Okay, good to know. Don't expect them to rip it
open right there exactly now.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
In a business context, giving gifts isn't always expected at
a very first meeting, but later on, as a relationship develops,
it will certainly be appreciated. You need to be quite
sensitive though, to the distinction between a thoughtful gift and
something that might be perceived as a bribe, especially when
dealing with government of be very careful there.
Speaker 2 (16:01):
So, what kind of business gifts are appropriate?
Speaker 1 (16:04):
Simple, good quality branded items are common and safe. Things
like a nice clock for the office, a good pen,
maybe something representative of your company or country.
Speaker 2 (16:14):
Okay, what about money?
Speaker 1 (16:16):
Monetary gifts are quite common for personal celebrations like weddings
or festivals. If you do give cash, it's considered auspicious.
If the amount ends in.
Speaker 2 (16:25):
A one ends in a one, like fifty one or
one hundred and one rupees.
Speaker 1 (16:28):
Exactly fifty one one one five oho one. That extra
single rupee is seen as a token of good luck
and blessings for the future. Fascinating, But avoid giving overly
expensive gifts, whether cash or items, might cause embarrassment or
imply kind of obligation which you want to avoid.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Right, keep it thoughtful but modest, precisely and dining etiquette.
You mentioned using the right hand. What else should we
know about meals? It sounds like there are quite a
few customs.
Speaker 1 (16:53):
You're right, there are when eating especially if food is
primarily consumed by hand, which is for many Indian cuisines. Yeah,
you'll always be expected to wash your hands thoroughly before
the meal and usually afterwards. Too often a wash basin
or finger bowl is provided.
Speaker 2 (17:10):
Okay, hygiene first makes sense.
Speaker 1 (17:12):
And absolutely remember use only your right hand for eating
and for accepting food, even if you're left handed. Naturally,
this is really non negotiable socially.
Speaker 2 (17:23):
Okay, drill that in right hand only, definitely.
Speaker 1 (17:26):
Also, it's not uncommon for your hosts to sit and
want you eat, especially if you're a guest.
Speaker 2 (17:31):
Oh, that might feel a bit awkward for some people.
Speaker 1 (17:34):
It can feel that way initially, but try not to
be uncomfortable. It usually comes from a place of immense
pride in their hospitality and wanting to ensure you're enjoying everything.
Speaker 2 (17:43):
Okay, So just relax and enjoy the food exactly.
Speaker 1 (17:45):
And you're not usually required to finish every single last
bite on your plate, unlike in some cultures. Leaving a
small amount can even indicate you're full and satisfied.
Speaker 2 (17:53):
Ah, Okay, that's good to know.
Speaker 1 (17:56):
And if you're offered tea or snacks during a meeting,
brief one It's always courteous to accept, even if you
just take a small sip or a tiny piece.
Speaker 2 (18:05):
Why is accepting so important.
Speaker 1 (18:08):
Because Indians are incredibly hospitable people. Hospitality is a huge
cultural value. Openly refusing food or drink that's offered can
sometimes cause unintended offense, as they see offering it as
a core part of their welcoming gesture.
Speaker 2 (18:22):
So accept graciously even a little bit.
Speaker 1 (18:25):
That's the best approach. Business meals are common to Lunch
and dinner are often preferred times for longer discussions, right,
and always just check preferences beforehand. As we mentioned, many
Indians are strictly vegetarian and many Hindus do not eat beef,
so just clarifying dietary needs is always a good idea.
Speaker 2 (18:42):
Okay, we've covered a lot of really practical ground there, greetings, gestures, dress, gifts, food.
But beyond these day to day interactions and specific etiquettes,
what about some of the deeper cultural aspects, things that
can really help us understand the Indian way of thinking.
Maybe they're underlying values.
Speaker 1 (18:58):
That's a great direction to go. Yes, there are definitely
some deeper currents. One really significant aspect is the role
of hierarchy.
Speaker 2 (19:06):
Hierarchy, okay, how does that play out?
Speaker 1 (19:08):
Indian society traditionally and often still today operates within a
framework where hierarchy is quite clearly defined and respected. Age, seniority,
social status, these things are highly valued.
Speaker 2 (19:21):
More so than in some Western cultures.
Speaker 1 (19:23):
Perhaps generally, yes, the deference is often more explicit. This
extends profoundly into business settings as well. Senior colleagues, bosses,
elders within a company are typically obeyed and shown a
high degree of respect.
Speaker 2 (19:36):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (19:37):
And decisions, especially in those family run businesses which are
incredibly prevalent.
Speaker 2 (19:42):
Across India, right, you mentioned those.
Speaker 1 (19:44):
They're often made by the eldest male member, the patriarch,
and sometimes loyalty to the family or the senior person
can be seen as even more important than formal qualifications
on paper. It's a system built on established lines of
authority and personal loyalty.
Speaker 2 (19:57):
That's a really different dynamic for maybe a Western manager
to navigate.
Speaker 1 (20:01):
It can be understanding that respect for seniority is crucial.
Also related to social structure is the caste system.
Speaker 2 (20:09):
Ah. Yes, that's something people hear about but might not
understand well.
Speaker 1 (20:13):
Right, It's important to know it's officially outlawed by the
Indian constitution. Discrimination based on caste is illegal.
Speaker 2 (20:20):
Okay.
Speaker 1 (20:21):
However, historically it was a deeply entrenched system of social
stratification dividing society into hereditary groups. And while its influence
is significantly breaking down, especially in urban centers and among
younger generations, its legacy can still subtly influence social interactions,
maybe marriage choices or even opportunities in some rural areas
(20:42):
or within certain traditional family contexts. It's very complex and
sensitive topic.
Speaker 2 (20:46):
So handle with sensitivity, but be aware of the historical
context exactly.
Speaker 1 (20:50):
Awareness helps in appreciating the nuanced social fabric without needing
to get into its incredibly complex history during a brief interaction.
Just be mindful it exists as a historical fact that.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
Really adds another layer to understanding social dynamics. And related
to that, maybe another area that sometimes creates friction or
confusion for outsiders is punctuality.
Speaker 1 (21:11):
Huh time chuckles, Yeah, what.
Speaker 2 (21:13):
About punctuality and how does that factor into things like
negotiations in a business setting?
Speaker 1 (21:19):
Okay, punctuality. Indians do appreciate punctuality, especially for formal meetings
scheduled in advance. Being on time is respected.
Speaker 2 (21:28):
But there's a butt, isn't there?
Speaker 1 (21:30):
Lefts there's often a butt there also, shall we say
somewhat known for late rivals. Some people playfully refer to
it as ist Indian standard time.
Speaker 2 (21:40):
Right, I've heard that phrase.
Speaker 1 (21:41):
Plans can often be contingent on other events or reliant
on other people who might be delayed themselves. There's often
a greater acceptance of flexibility. Perhaps things don't always run
like clockwork, so.
Speaker 2 (21:52):
How should you handle that? Don't take offense.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
I definitely don't take offense. It's usually not personal. But
if time is critical for your schedule for specific reason,
it's perfectly okay to make that clear politely, maybe in advance,
perhaps even send a gentle reminder an hour or so
before the meeting. That's quite acceptable.
Speaker 2 (22:09):
And in business discussions, does this flexibility extend the negotiation
process itself?
Speaker 1 (22:14):
It often does. Business discussions frequently begin with a period
of small talk, sometimes quite extended, building rapport first, exactly,
Building that personal connection and trust is often seen as
a prerequisite before diving into the serious business negotiations. Relationships
matter a lot.
Speaker 2 (22:32):
So don't rush into the agenda immediately.
Speaker 1 (22:35):
Probably not the best approach no, and the negotiations themselves
can sometimes feel slow to outsiders. They might rely on intuition,
on gut feeling as much as on hard data and scudsheets. Interesting,
and it's common to expect a process of give and
take concessions back and forth. It's part of the dance.
And remember what we talked about earlier that direct no
is often avoided, right. The indirectness responses might be more diplomatic,
(22:59):
perhaps a bit ambiguous. You might hear we will try
or let me see instead of a flat refusal.
Speaker 2 (23:06):
I remember you mentioned an example where a Western business
person got frustrated.
Speaker 1 (23:10):
By that Yes. They kept getting these indirect nos, maybe
the head wobble or I will try my very best,
and they initially interpreted it as stalling or being strung along.
Speaker 2 (23:21):
Ye.
Speaker 1 (23:21):
But for the Indian counterpart, it was likely about preserving harmony,
about not wanting to shut down the conversation completely, maybe
hoping to find an alternative solution, rather than just giving
a blunt, potentially disappointing no. It's a different communication style.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
That's a great example of the high context communication we discussed.
Really need to read the situation you do.
Speaker 1 (23:42):
Finally, let's just briefly touch on communication beyond gestures. What
about language itself, specifically Indian English. It's English, but I
hear it can still be a bit tricky sometimes for
non Indians.
Speaker 2 (23:55):
Yeah, accents can be challenging anywhere. But are there other things?
Speaker 1 (23:59):
Well? Yes. While English is very widely spoken, especially in
business and education, the Indian English accent, or rather the
many diverse accents, can sometimes be difficult for foreigners to understand,
particularly when spoken quickly. Also, the style tends to be
a bit more proper, perhaps more formal, often using slightly
more elaborate vocabulary than say, contemporary American English.
Speaker 2 (24:23):
More formal.
Speaker 1 (24:23):
Okay, and you're right, it's not just the accent. There's
almost a unique lexicon that has developed. You might hear
unique terms.
Speaker 2 (24:30):
Like what give us some examples?
Speaker 1 (24:32):
Okay? Well, you might hear someone refer to a huge
mistake as a Himalayan blunder.
Speaker 2 (24:38):
Himalayan blunder chickles. I like that right, very descriptive. Or
the word go down is often used for a warehouse.
That's a term dating back to colonial times that's still
quite common.
Speaker 1 (24:50):
Goo down for warehouse, okay.
Speaker 2 (24:52):
Or common phrases like cousin brother or cousin's sister.
Speaker 1 (24:55):
Ah instead of just cousin.
Speaker 2 (24:57):
Why is that It's simply to specify the gender, which
English doesn't do with the word cousin. It's just a
clear way of putting it in their context.
Speaker 1 (25:04):
Makes sense. What if you really don't understand what someone's saying.
Speaker 2 (25:08):
Oh, it's perfectly fine to politely ask them to repeat themselves,
perhaps a little more slowly, or to rephrase something.
Speaker 1 (25:15):
It's not rude to ask, not at all. In fact,
it shows you're engaged in making an effort to understand properly.
Most people will be happy to clarify. No offense will
be taken.
Speaker 2 (25:26):
That's reassuring. It sounds like there are quite a few
charming unique phrases that might sneak in there too, Any
other fun examples that might trip up a listener.
Speaker 1 (25:35):
Oh, there are many, you might hear. The verb propone
uses the opposite of postpone, meaning to bring something forward in.
Speaker 2 (25:41):
Time per pone, okay, logical, or.
Speaker 1 (25:43):
The phrase do the needful, which essentially just means do
what is necessary or take the required action. Mmm. Sounds
a bit quaint, perhaps, but it's very common.
Speaker 2 (25:52):
Do the needful?
Speaker 1 (25:53):
Got it, or even asking someone what is your good
name insteadist what is your name?
Speaker 2 (25:58):
Good name?
Speaker 1 (25:58):
Yes, it's considered a very very polite, respectful way to ask.
It just adds a little bit of delightful color to
the language, I think, and once you get the hang
of these little nuances, they're actually quite endearing.
Speaker 2 (26:10):
This has been absolutely fascinating, an incredible deep dive into
understanding and hopefully better connecting with Indian culture.
Speaker 1 (26:17):
It's been a pleasure.
Speaker 2 (26:18):
From the subtle art of the head wobble and the
real significance of uncle and auntie all the way through
to the importance of respecting elders and navigating those social
graces around gifts and food. It's really clear that a
little bit of understanding goes a very very long way.
Speaker 1 (26:34):
Indeed it does, and the insights we've shared today drawn
directly from sources really embedded in Indian cultural practices. They
highlight that while yes, there's immense diversity across India, huge diversity,
there are also these unifying threads, themes of hospitality, deep
respect for elders, in hierarchy, and this wonderfully rich nonverbal
(26:55):
and verbal language. It's really about looking beyond the surface. Assumptions.
Speaker 2 (26:59):
So what is does this all mean for you listening
right now? Well, next time you interact with someone from India,
try to remember some of these insights. Observe, listen actively,
try to understand the context behind the words or actions.
Embrace the nuances, maybe even the ambiguities sometimes and you
might just unlock a deeper, more meaningful connection, something that
goes beyond just politeness towards genuine understanding and appreciation.
Speaker 1 (27:22):
Absolutely, and perhaps here's a final thought to leave you with.
Consider how that reluctance to say no directly which we discussed,
the thing that's often seen as a challenge or confusing
by outsiders, might it actually be, in its own way,
a profound expression of empathy, a deep seated desire to
maintain harmony within relationships above all else.
Speaker 2 (27:44):
That's a really interesting way to reframe it.
Speaker 1 (27:46):
What other cultural behaviors anywhere in the world, perhaps that
seem perplexing or inefficient at first glance, might actually hold
similar deeper meanings of connection, empathy, or social harmony, if
only we paused long enough to explore them together. Here
(28:10):
we start to learn
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