Indian Food Cuisine

Before embarking upon a tour of India it pays to learn some facts regarding Indian cultures and traditions. India is a wonderful country, meeting the people and experiencing their way of life will enrich your trip greatly. Understanding Indian culture can help bridge the communication gap.

Hierarchy is important to Indian people, Indians are always conscious of social standing and their status compared to other people, be they family, friends or strangers. All relationships involve hierarchies, in schools teachers are gurus - the fountains of all knowledge. In families it is the father figures who are to be looked up to. At work, bosses are a figure of responsibility. This behaviour is part of the Indian people and they are brought up this way from babies.

One fact to understand about the Indian people is that they do not like to say no. It is offensive to disappoint another person with such a word as 'no'. If a question is asked and the answer is no - the Indian person will not reply with a negative response, they will try to offer an alternative. It is wise to learn to read the non-verbal cues such as a reluctance to reply with a straight answer. Do not see this behaviour as dishonest as it is a genuine response in the attempt to please you.

Meeting and greeting etiquette in India is influenced by religion, education and social class. It is standard for the eldest and most senior people to greet each other first. When leaving a group, all people must say goodbye individually. Men will shake hands with men only and women will shake hands with each other too, rarely will men and women shake hands with each other due to religious beliefs.

A delightful part of Indian culture is that they believe giving gifts will ease their transition into the next life. Much like in Western civilisation cash gifts are given to friends, family and extended family to celebrate births and marriages. It is very important to the recipient that the gift is greatly received regardless of what it is. Do try to use lucky colours such as yellow, green and red; do not expect the gift to be opened immediately. Important religious facts to remember when giving gifts are to avoid alcohol for Muslims and leather for Hindus.

Dining etiquette is very much a case of being polite, turn up on time and remove shoes before entering another person's home as well as dressing conservatively. It is a custom to turn down the first drink offered - you will then be asked again and again until you agree, this is custom. It is also polite to leave a small amount of food on the plate; this shows that you were satisfied. If you do not do this, you will find you are given more food until you leave a bit. As most Indian food is eaten with fingers you will be expected to wash your hands before and after meals.

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