Historic Agra Fort in Uttar Pradesh, India (Photograph: Jim Kasom/User Submission)
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Traveling to a foreign country can be exciting, but it's essential to be aware of local customs to avoid any potential missteps. Here are some Indian customs that'll help you avoid offending the locals [Matador Network] and make your journey more enriching.
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Photo by Jim Kasom via My Shot
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Unveiling Indian Customs
Paying close attention to Indian customs is key to avoiding unintentional offenses while traveling in India. We've got a few pointers to help you respect and appreciate Indian culture:
Embracing Indian Hospitality
Indians adhere to "Atithi Devo Bhava," which translates to "the Guest is God." Showing respect and kindness towards your hosts is deeply valued.
Time Management
When invited for dinner, it's customary to arrive 15-20 minutes late as this gives your host time to wrap up preparations. Arriving early might come off as rude.
Dining Etiquette
Hand Washing
Always wash your hands before and after meals.
Dining Mannerisms
Wait for the eldest person to start eating. In some cases, you'll be eating on floor mats, so be patient and wait for guidance on where to sit.
Food Handling
In Northern India, it's customary to eat with your fingertips. Break bread into smaller pieces to scoop up curries.
Social Etiquette
Dress Code
Dress conservatively to show respect.
Footwear
Remove your shoes before entering homes.
Offer Refusals
Politely decline food or drinks initially before accepting.
Cultural Appreciation
Always express gratitude before and after meals.
Cultural Compass
Be mindful of regional customs, as they might differ between the north and south.
To delve deeper into Indian customs, check out resources like Culture Trip and The Culinary Travel Guide. Engaging with locals is also a great way to learn about specific customs and traditions. Blogs like Flyopedia offer practical guidance for navigating cultural intricacies while traveling. Adhering to these suggestions will help you enjoy a more fulfilling travel experience in India while demonstrating cultural respect.
During an Indian travel, being mindful of local customs can help prevent unintentional offenses and make your journey more rewarding. For instance, embracing Indian Hospitality by treating your hosts with respect and kindness is greatly valued, as it follows the tradition of "Atithi Devo Bhava" which translates to "the Guest is God." Also, when invited for dinner, arriving 15-20 minutes late is customary to give your host enough time to prepare, but coming early might be perceived as rude.
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