Page 740 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - India

738  SUR VIV AL GUIDE

Etiquette

India is a kaleidoscope of traditional values and the influx of
western influences due to its blossoming economy. In cities
and larger towns, you will find youngsters following the latest
fashion trends. They have a modern, cosmopolitan outlook
but remain traditional in many ways. Though the diverse
social, religious and caste groups have their own distinct
customs, they share certain common values. Respect for elders
is deeply ingrained, so it is important to treat older people
with special courtesy. Indians are extremely hospitable and
helpful to visitors. It is a good idea to respond to bring your
hosts flowers, or a small gift, even though this is not an Indian
custom. If you find yourself facing delays and inefficient Eating off banana leaves at a ceremonial
services, or grappling with bureaucracy, it is far more effective temple feast
to remain calm and polite than to lose your temper. Suitable Dress
Indians tend to dress
conser vatively and keep the
Greeting People a friendly gesture to get to body well covered. In small
The traditional greeting in India know the other person. towns, most women wear saris
is the namaskar or namaste or salwar-kameez (see p34). In
(pronounced “namastay”) when cities, jeans, skirts and t-shirts
meeting or parting. The palms Body Language are common, particularly
are pressed together, raised The feet are considered to be among the younger generation.
towards the face, and the the lowliest part of the body, However, men do tend to stare
head is bent slightly forward. and shoes are treated as unclean. at skimpily clad women.
Greetings and gestures vary People will usually take their It is best to dress formally
somewhat according to religion shoes off before entering a when visiting Indian homes.
or regional group. Muslims raise house. Putting your feet up on In fact, wearing an Indian
their right hand towards the the furniture is considered bad outfit for the occasion will
forehead with the words adaab manners, as is touching probably delight your hosts.
or salaam aleikum (to which someone inadvertently with your Inexpensive, ready-made
you reply walekum feet. If you are sitting Indian clothes for men and
salaam). The Western on the floor, as is women are widely available.
handshake is also often the case, try to It is acceptable for men
widely used, though keep your feet tucked to go shirtless on the beach.
more conservative underneath rather Nude sunbathing is never
women still prefer than stretched out, allowed, and women are
to greet visitors with and avoid stepping advised to wear full swimsuits,
a namaskar. over people. or sarongs over their bikinis.
The suffix “ji” after The head, on the If you are going out for the
someone’s name is other hand, is evening, remember that
a mark of respect. Namaskar, the thought to be a most nightclubs have a dress
Using first names only traditional greeting person’s spiritual code, and you may not get
can be taken as overly centre. An older in if you are wearing shorts
familiar, so it’s best to address person may bless someone or trainers.
new acquaintances as Mr, younger by touching his or
Miss or Mrs, or simply “ji”. her head.
Older people, particularly Living in close quarters with Places of Worship
grandparents, are treated with family and neighbours gives Whether you are visiting
great respect, and younger Indians a different sense of a Hindu temple, Buddhist
relatives often greet them by “personal space” than many monastery, Islamic mosque
touching their feet. Your host Westerners are used to. If you or Sikh gurdwara, make sure
will not expect you to do the find yourself crowded or jostled, that you behave and dress
same, but a courteous greeting particularly while travelling, be appropriately. You should, for
in any form is important. as tolerant as you can, since example, always ask permission
Questions about one’s marital space is often at a premium. to take photographs. Women
status or salary from someone You should also be aware should wear dresses that cover
you have just met should not that public displays of affection the upper arms, and are at least
be considered an invasion of between couples are frowned mid-calf length, and take
privacy. It is nothing more than upon in Indian society. scarves along to cover their

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