India's Welcoming Ways: A Visitor's Guide

A: Alright, let's dive into something everyone loves: food and how people welcome you in India.

B: Oh, I'm curious! What's a really popular dish there?

A: Well, many, many people enjoy eating curry. It's a big part of meals all across the country, with so many different kinds to try.

B: Sounds delicious! And what about drinks, especially when you visit someone's home?

A: Ah, that's a lovely part of Indian culture. If you visit a friend's home, they will almost always offer you a cup of tea. It's a very friendly gesture, a way to show they're happy you're there.

B: That's so welcoming. Are there any foods that people usually *don't* eat, or things to be aware of?

A: That's a really important question. You won't find many dishes made with beef in India. This is because cows are considered very special, or sacred, in Hinduism, so they're not eaten.

B: Okay, so no beef, and lots of tea and curry as a welcoming sign. That helps a lot!

A: Absolutely. Knowing those food customs is crucial. But beyond the table, what about visiting friends in general? Like, if you're invited to someone's home, what should you know?

B: That's a great point! One thing that might surprise you is about time. For social visits, it's often okay to be a little late.

A: Really? So, not like in some countries where being late is very rude?

B: Exactly! For friends, ten or fifteen minutes late is usually fine. Sometimes people even call it 'Indian Standard Time' with a smile. It's not considered rude.

A: That's good to know! So, a little relaxed about time. What about giving or taking things, like a gift or even food?

B: Ah, this is very important. Always use your right hand. When you give or receive anything—food, money, a gift—always use your right hand.

A: Only the right hand?

B: Yes. The left hand is traditionally seen as unclean. So, using your left hand to give or take something is considered impolite, even rude.

A: That's a vital piece of etiquette. So, we've covered food, drinks, the relaxed approach to social timing, and the importance of the right hand. What about how people dress in India?

B: That's a good point! Modesty is actually quite common. People, both men and women, usually wear clothes that cover their legs and shoulders.

A: Oh, so not a lot of shorts or tank tops?

B: Exactly. You'll see beautiful traditional clothes like saris for women and kurtas, which are long shirts, for both men and women. But also modern clothes, like trousers, are very common.

A: So, you can still wear modern clothes, but just make sure they cover enough?

B: Yes, exactly. It's about respecting the local customs. So, to quickly recap everything we've talked about for visiting India...

A: Let's do it! So, be ready for tea, because you'll almost always be offered some.

B: And don't stress about being a few minutes late for a friendly visit – that's often fine.

A: And the most important one: always, always use your right hand when you give or receive things, right?

B: That's right! Those are some great tips for anyone visiting India.