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Cultural profile | India | March 2005

Cultural profile India

C/HDC2 – International Support

Preface 2 | 21

We are pleased to present you this culture profile as a new product offered by C/HDC2. With this brochure, we give you an insight into culturally conditioned behaviors – an insight we are sure will be useful to you when you work with international colleagues and business partners. To improve your knowledge of the (working) culture in various countries, and to discuss further questions or case studies from your everyday work, we also offer a comprehensive program of workshops and seminars, as well as coaching on international issues. You can find this program and other culture profiles (also in German) on the intranet at: http://www.intranet.bosch.com/c/hd/kulturprofile Wishing you every success in your intercultural work, C/HDC2 - International Support Human Resources Development and Organizational Development with CIP-Coordination PS: We would like to keep our culture profiles as useful and up-to-date as possible, and would of course be glad to include any suggestions and comments you may have.


Contents 3 | 21

1. The Individual and Society ..........................................................3 1.1. Self-perception and social hierarchy...................................3 1.2. Social relationships.............................................................3

2. Value Systems and Religion........................................................3 2.1. Values and norms ...............................................................3

2.1.1. Hierarchy/status ........................................................3 2.1.2. Respect......................................................................3 2.1.3. Harmony ...................................................................3 2.1.4. Face...........................................................................3

2.2. Religion ..............................................................................3 2.3. State holidays......................................................................3

3. Communication.............................................................................3 3.1. Patterns of communication .................................................3 3.2. Body language and personal space .....................................3 3.3. Names/Salutations ..............................................................3

4. Business culture...........................................................................3 4.1. In the office.........................................................................3

4.1.1. Introductions and getting to know people.................3 4.1.2. Business language.....................................................3 4.1.3. Dress code.................................................................3 4.1.4. Presentations .............................................................3 4.1.5. Meetings ...................................................................3 4.1.6. Behavior in discussions ............................................3 4.1.7. Conflict management................................................3 4.1.8. Making criticisms .....................................................3 4.1.9. Negotiating ...............................................................3 4.1.10. Management style ...................................................3 4.1.11. Sense of time...........................................................3 4.1.12. Keeping agreements................................................3

4.2. Outside the office................................................................3 4.2.1. Invitations .................................................................3 4.2.2. Gifts ..........................................................................3 4.2.3. Eating and drinking habits ........................................3 4.2.4. Discussion topics and taboos ....................................3

4.3. The work ethic and leisure time..........................................3 5. Practical Tips and Useful Advice ................................................3

5.1. Courtesy and etiquette ........................................................3 5.2. Smoking..............................................................................3 5.3. Telephoning ........................................................................3 5.4. Climate................................................................................3 5.5. Photography........................................................................3 5.6. Bureaucracy ........................................................................3 5.7. Important words and phases in Indian English ...................3

6. Literature .......................................................................................3


Cultural profile India | March 2005 1. The Individual and Society 4 | 21

1. The Individual and Society

1.1. Self-perception and social hierarchy

The size and diversity of India have led to the development of extreme differences in the behavior of the people in the various regions and social layers. There are companies and sectors of the economy that are strongly focused on Europe and the USA, but there are also sectors which adhere strongly to the old traditions. These differences mean that a very delicate approach must be taken towards Indian culture. Intercultural interaction with Indians is heavily influenced by the region your partner comes from and how he has been educated. This profile can therefore only roughly describe those trends which apply to a greater or lesser degree to the majority of Indians.

The most fundamental feature of the Indian social system is the caste system. This dates back to when the Aryans, a tribe from Persia (sanscrit: “Ayra” means ‘noble’) arrived on the Indian sub-continent. The word “caste” originates from the Portuguese word, “casta” meaning race or breed. In the Vedic period, Indian society was subdivided into four groups – the “varnas” (sanscrit: literally, color):

Brahmans Priests Ksatriyas Noblemen and warriors Vaishyas Merchants and farmers Sudras Laborers and tradesmen

The untouchables, Pariah, remain outside this classification. Mahatma Gandhi called them Harijan, “the children of God”. Nowadays, the Indian population is divided up into 3000 jatis (castes). Historically, these are associated with an occupation and can be compared to the guilds in mediaeval Europe. It is estimated that the pariah make up approx. one fifth of the Indian population. Officially, the caste system was abolished in 1950 when the constitution came into force. Nevertheless, it still has an influence on the life of many Indians, in the choice of partner/spouse, for example, or the group of friends and career to some extent, as well as certain rituals and even some types of food. However, the boundaries between the castes are slowly losing their rigidity as education spreads. This is particularly true for younger people. Because of the accepted social system and the resulting status of its members, there is a certain set of behaviors, duties and privileges for each person. Group affiliation plays a central role. The inequality inherent in the social system is usually accepted and rarely questioned. Indian women appear reserved. However, it is becomingly increasingly important for women to have a good education too. More recently, they are entering business life and are usually very much

A hymn describes creation and the beginnings of the caste system as follows: “The four varnas were born from the sacrifice of Purusha: the mouth was the brahman (priest); the arms the kshatriya (warrior); the thigh the vaishya (farmers and merchants); the feet the shudra (servant).”

group affiliation of central importance


Cultural profile India | March 2005 1. The Individual and Society 5 | 21

appreciated as co-workers. Nevertheless, extremely few women are appointed to management positions. They mainly work in services or the public sector. Another not insignificant factor in this regard is that working women contribute to the family income and this is having a positive impact on their position.

1.2. Social relationships

Indian society is collective. However, in comparison to other Asian countries, the collective character of Indian society is based on smaller groups. In India it is the extended family which plays the most important role. The family is the main source of identity. The family is a source of both support and advice. The definition of the family in India is much more comprehensive than in many other countries. The extended or “joint” family still exists in which not only three generations live under one roof but also uncles and aunts, cousins (known as cousin-brothers and cousin-sisters) and sometimes even more distant relatives. Loyalty to the family/clan creates obligations such as the duty to care for each other in difficult situations. Whenever there are problems or emergencies in the family these will be given priority over work or any other obligations. Family events are taken very seriously. Weddings between members of the middle social strata sometimes have up to 400 or so guests. Many decisions are made by the entire family. The private sphere tends to be of less significance than the family. This is not only due to the cramped living conditions experienced by many families but also to the collective attitude to life. In India, the word “friend” has a similarly expansive reach as in Anglo-Saxon countries. Indians are usually extremely friendly and open to others and foreigners. As a result acquaintances can very quickly become “friends. But, like anywhere else in the world, true friendship needs time to develop.

family = main source of identity

family obligations have priority


Cultural profile India | March 2005 2. Value Systems and Religion 6 | 21

2. Value Systems and Religion

2.1. Values and norms

2.1.1. Hierarchy/status

In India, the power divide between superiors and employees is usually quite marked. This is reflected in hierarchical structures. A superior or teacher/guru is very rarely criticized. Reasons for Indian attitudes to hierarchy include:

India Religion and Values

Inequality is anchored in the religion (caste system) Search for harmony Indians are brought up to show respect (parents have the greatest influence) Respect is shown for: - age - knowledge - social position

Historical influences Time spent as a British colony Independence in 1947, official abolition of the caste system in 1950

2.1.2. Respect

Respect is an important value in Indian culture. It is shown to superiors and parents and grandparents. However, respectful manners are also adopted towards people with a similar social status. Aggression of any kind or extremely direct communication is seen as a lack of respect.

2.1.3. Harmony

Creating harmony is an important aspect of life in India. Harmony means being at one with the social structures, respecting elders and people with a higher status and trusting the family. The reason for this desire for harmony is that Indians are collective by nature and identify strongly with the group. This results in a certain emotional dependence on the group and a desire for harmonious relationships to – and positive feedback from – other members of the group. Conflicts are avoided as much as possible or not addressed at all. Thus problems must often be “sat out”. However, in certain situations, Indians can be very open to discussion.

clear power divide

emotional dependence on groups and harmonious relationships



2.1.4. Face

The concept of “face” stands for dignity, honor, (self-) respect, prestige, influence, recognition, fairness and acknowledgement. However, the individual is not just responsible for keeping face on his own account, but must ensure that no other person loses face due to his actions.

2.2.Religion

Officially, Indian society is committed to materialism. At the same time, India is a spiritual country with many believers and a wide range of religions. Although the constitution declares it to be a secular state, religion still plays a very significant role. About 80% of the population are Hindus, approx. 12% Muslims and about 3% Christians with 2% of the country being Sikhs. In addition, India has Buddhists, Jainists and Parsis. Hindu originally means “the people on the other side of the Sindhu or Indus river”. In many other languages, including French or Persian, it is the word used to denote Indians. Hindus call their culture sanatana dharma, “eternal values”.

Important Hindu principles are: samsara There is no beginning and no end, the material world

is constantly changing in cyclical fashion. Material being is a never-ending cycle of reincarnation.

karma Our actions determine our fate and our path in the eternal cycle of reincarnation

moksha Holding on to material events keeps us prisoner and prevents our spiritual release (the goal of Hindus).

Hinduism does not claim to have a monopoly on the truth. There are no holy scriptures in Hinduism and there is no ultimate religious authority or head of the church. Nor is there any religious dogma dictating the cults or prayers to be observed. Instead of this, there are several million gods. The three most important gods (trimurthi) are Shiva (destruction and renewal), Vishnu (preserver of the cosmos) and Brahma (creator). For a Hindu, the ideal life is composed of four stages: - Brahmachari (study) - Grihastha (founding a family) - Vanaprastha (preparation for ascesis) - Sanyasi (asceticism)

In Hinduism there is a concept of “ritual cleanliness and impurity”. For example, leather and some trades (e.g. tanners and laundrymen) are impure. For orthodox Hindus a member of a lower caste (or a foreigner) can be impure. A ritual cleansing is essential after contact with such people. Water and precious metals are generally considered

keeping face – for both yourself and others



pure. Food also has a religious character. Some people may eat some foods, others not.

2.3.State holidays

Official holidays are: Jan. 26 Republic Day Aug. 15 Independence Day Oct. 10 Mahatama Ghandi’s Birthday Nov. 16 Guru Nanak’s Birthday (founder of the Sikh religion) Dec. 25 Christmas Day

In addition there are countless religious festivals. It is even said that you can attend a festival on every day of the year. This is due to the number of gods worshipped. Nevertheless, not every festival is a holiday.

The following festivals are celebrated in many regions: Holi (February/March) Festival of color heralding the end of winter.

On the streets, people will throw dyes or colored water at each other.

Maha Shivratri (March/April) In honor of Shiva Ramanavami Rama’s birthday Id-Ul Fitr End of Ramadan, the Muslim fast Jananashtami (August) Krishna’s birthday Dussehra (September) In honor of Durgas Diwali (October/November) “Festival of Lights” celebrating

Rama’s victory over evil

Diwali is the most widespread festival celebrated throughout the country. Presents and cards are given, particularly to business partners. They can be bought with the words “Happy Diwali” written on them. The festival lasts four days. Light is brought into the darkness by lighting lamps and fireworks.


Cultural profile India | March 2005 3. Communication 9 | 21

3. Communication

3.1. Patterns of communication

In Indian communication, interpersonal relationships are often more important than objective facts. Particularly when two people are becoming acquainted, the relationship is more important than the objective content of what is discussed. Good contact to the other party creates trust and improves the relationship. Contacts can make a lot of things possible that would otherwise be impossible. In daily communication, Indians tend to speak indirectly with each other (particularly if different levels of the hierarchy are involved). This means that at first a great deal of information related to the problem is conveyed, which people from some other countries may well consider to be irrelevant. The speaker will only “come to the point” after he receives a positive signal from the listener.

direct communication indirect communication (German) (Indian)

The indirect nature of Indian communication explains why the form of a statement is sometimes more important than its contents. In fact, the form is to a certain extent itself content as it conveys important information. In discussion, it is possible to communicate indirectly by the following means: making oblique references, presenting or explaining the background instead, perceiving an issue from different angles, not specifically stating what you mean, diluting what you say by using the third person or words like “maybe”, using the question form, conjunctives, referring to authorities (“My father used to say...”, “My boss recently said...”, “The famous manager, X said he had learnt that…”, “The recognized scientist Y found out that…”, “The philosopher Z once wrote…”), including things held in common in your message, mentioning positive points or being friendly before making a criticism and using negative questions, “Don't you think that...?”). Generally, Indians try to avoid being the harbinger of bad news. This also applies to difficulties encountered in trying to meet a contract or finish a project.

significance of the interpersonal relationship

indirect communication

means of indirect communication

It is better to say something pleasant than the truth. (Indian saying)



Yes – no – yes and no? When an Indian does not reply at all, this might mean either yes or no. If he says yes, this does not necessarily mean he approves. If he says no, all is not necessarily lost. Yes and no do not have an absolute meaning in India.

Variations of NO: A clearly stated “No” is rarely heard and, if it is, this usually means that something is truly not possible. If put under pressure, a ‘no’ may transmute into ‘yes’, but still mean no. The following phrases also mean “No”: “We’ll try.”, “We’ll do our best.”, “We’ll see how to manage it.”, “We’ll manage it somehow.”, “We’ll surely do it if it’s possible.”, “No problem” usually means that there are in fact problems. “Definitely” means that something might be possible.

Some reasons why an Indian might avoid NO: - Instructions/pressure from superiors to accept a job › Value: hierarchy - “The client will be unhappy if we reject the job.” › Value: harmony - “The client will think we are being uncooperative.” › Value: keeping face (your own) - “It might be embarrassing for the client if we say no.”

› Value: Keeping face (for the other party) - “I don’t have any right to say no.”

› Value: group before the individual - “If I say no now I can't ask them for help later.” › Value: networking - “The wishes of BOSCH Germany are more important than my

appointment schedule.” › Value: hierarchy - “I’ll get it done somehow - with a little help from my colleagues.”

› Value: networking, flexibility - “I owe him this favor – he helped me a lot in the past.”

› Value: network commitments - “He is my superior, guest, customer and/or much older than ...” › Value: social roles, view of life In conversation and discussion, Indians tend to speaker louder than people from some other cultures. Moreover, it is customary to interrupt while someone is still speaking. Neither of these tendencies means that you are having an argument or being unfriendly to each other.

3.2. Body language and personal space

Body language is a very important component of communication in India. Not everything is openly stated. Rather, a lot of the message is expressed by the tone of voice, gestures, facial expression, pauses, etc.

why Indians avoid saying “no”…

significance of body language



One of the most obvious non-verbal signals Indians use is to roll the head from right to left. This gesture can be easily confused with shaking the head. However, it means just the opposite: “I have understood”, “ok” or “I am in harmony with you” – although it does not necessarily mean “yes”. If it is unclear whether an answer was positive or negative, it is ok to ask what was meant (but use an open question, otherwise the answer is likely to be a repeated rolling, shaking or nodding of the head). Nevertheless, like in most other countries, nodding the head means YES and shaking it means NO. Many gestures and postures have a certain meaning in India. Money, business cards and presents are handed over and received with the right hand as this is considered auspicious. There is less eye contact than in many other countries, particularly between two people of a different social status or between a man and woman. Body contact between people of the same sex is allowed and is a sign of friendship. It is common to see men going arm in arm or holding hands. This is not a sign of homosexuality. By contrast, it is not customary to see contact between a man and woman in public. It is better to be careful about touching people, particularly if they are not members of the family, and not hug any “strangers” for example. Stroking, kissing or holding someone's hand in public is taboo. Things are a little more relaxed in large cities, but it is certainly better to be discrete. The sheer density of the crowds in India makes it impossible to avoid body contact all the time. Thus, pushing and shoving is generally no problem. It is also quite normal for a small schoolgirl who falls asleep on the bus to put her head on her (unknown) neighbor’s shoulder.

3.3. Names/Salutations

A man is addressed with Sri (pronounced, shri, and means Mr.) and the first name or surname. A woman is addressed accordingly with the female equivalent, Shrimathi (Ms.) and her name. Other possibilities are sahib or memsahib which are often used by people of a lower rank. Sir or madam (ma'am) are often used as a sign of respect or courtesy. The normal address in English is Mr. or Mrs. followed by the surname or sometimes the first name. Titles should always be used as they show someone’s status. Indian names can be composed of the first name, surname, paternal name, place of birth, or name of the clan, etc. The naming customs vary greatly from family to family or even from individual to individual. In India it is possible for an individual to rearrange or change his name. A further characteristic is the abbreviation of some names. Instead of the full word, just the initials are used. This makes it easier – for Indians too – to remember a long name.

body contact


Cultural profile India | March 2005 4. Business Culture 12 | 21

4. Business culture

4.1. In the office

Collegiality among Indians can vary depending on a number of factors such as age, education, business culture, identification with the company and the relationship to superiors. The heterogeneity in society also exists within many companies and sometimes you will encounter more individualist behavior. For example, competitiveness is stronger in India than in some other countries. In India a plan is an idea of a possible result. This appears quite plausible and attainable at the time the plans are made, but there are a number of external factors which may have a major influence on the plan or thwart it altogether. For Indians, change and adjustment are in the nature of things. Consequently, Indians usually react quite flexibly to change.

4.1.1. Introductions and getting to know people

The traditional method of greeting people is to bow slightly holding your hands together as if in prayer and say “Namaste” or “Namaskar” (used more in the South). This greeting is preferred, by women in particular. A handshake has also become customary in urban areas and between men. If you are introduced to someone or if you are introducing someone you know to someone else, you must not forget to mention professional titles and job responsibilities. Business cards are handed over with the right hand during the conversation and they should clearly state the rank of the cardholder.

4.1.2. Business language

English is still spoken in this former English colony, particularly in the public administration. Most universities and some schools also teach in English. English skills are considered prestigious, but usually it is only the educated who enjoy this privilege. Business partners speak fluent English, particularly where international transactions are concerned. The English spoken by Indians is based on British English, usually with a distinctive Indian accent and enriched with additional nuances and local diction. The English of the educated social layers is often expressive, eloquent and elaborate. The great significance of English in southern India is somewhat restricted in northern India (by the fact that Hindi is the official language. There are 16 official languages in India (English, Hindi, Bengali, Telugu, Tamil, Kannada, Marathi, Urdu, Gujurati, Malayalam, Oriya, Punjabi, Assamese, Kashmiri, Sindhi, and Sanskrit) and over 300 minor languages and dialects. Even Indians

Manual and intellectual work is kept strictly separate in India. Intellectual work enjoys a higher status. For example, you cannot expect an engineer to pick up a soldering iron. Workers seldom receive training.

business cards proffered with the right hand

English skills relatively common



from different parts of the country will often speak English or Hindi with each other otherwise they would not be able to understand each other.

4.1.3. Dress code

Men usually work in western-style clothes (long trousers and shirt) but Indian clothing is often considered more appropriate for women. This means wearing a Salwar Kameez (Indian trouser suit with three quarter length top and matching scarf). Sometimes uniforms are worn at a company. This then applies to all employees alike (workers, team leaders, etc.). Women in particular should not wear revealing clothes and not show too much skin. For instance, women should not wear shorts or short skirts in public. Shorts are not really suitable for men either.

4.1.4. Presentations

Presentations in India are normally full of factual information. The atmosphere is formal, but the formality can sometimes relax a little.

4.1.5. Meetings

In meetings with an Indian delegation, it is usually the highest ranking delegate who does the talking. This does not automatically mean that all others agree with what he says. However, to openly contradict him would mean a loss of face for all concerned. It is relatively common for meetings to be interrupted by telephone calls, unannounced visitors or secretaries. This should not be taken as a lack of respect towards the visitor but is founded in the polychronic nature of the society. Various tasks can be worked on simultaneously. Decisions are normally made by the manager. Representatives at lower levels of the hierarchy must consult their bosses before making decisions. It is rare to actually have a discussion with the boss.

4.1.6. Behavior in discussions

In discussion, many Indians will attempt to find a consensus with as many participants as possible and join the majority opinion. However, some particularly well educated Indians enjoy a good discussion. If a debate becomes heated, Indians are likely to react sensitively to a direct contradiction and feel personally insulted (inner tension, hurt feelings, perception of hostility, lack of understanding).

presentations are full of facts

people of a higher rank are not contradicted

search for the majority opinion



In the perception of many Indians, there is practically no distinction between the person and the objective issue. Thus the following are taken as ad hominems and a sign of aggression: - short unambiguous answers - lack of a friendly introduction - lack of polite accompanying phrases - direct criticism of work It is more customary in India to steer the other party to the desired result in an indirect fashion. What “convincing the other party” is in Germany, for instance is replaced in India by “winning the other party over”.

4.1.7. Conflict management

In different cultures conflicts are perceived in different ways and in different contexts. The following table lists a few areas in which Indians perceive problems.

Conflicts in India lack of acceptance of status lack of acceptance of the person lack of leadership qualities public criticism, know-it-alls lack of self-control, aggression neglect of “external relations” → Focus on relationship

(Source: IFIM Institut für Interkulturelles Management GmbH)

The way conflict is managed is also different in different cultures. The next table shows typical reactions in India as conflict escalates:

Escalation of Conflict in India Choose not to look, hear or register Non-verbal expression: gestures, facial expressions Appeal to common ground Defuse, trivialize, make the matter insignificant Reduce the issue, make it banal, become emotional Denial, non-compliance with agreements, passive resistance

(Source: material from IFIM Institut für Interkulturelles Management GmbH)

4.1.8. Making criticisms

Criticism of any work done should be expressed as early and as carefully as possible. A clear distinction must be made between the person and the issue/point of criticism. An Indian should not lose face from being criticized.

no distinction between the person and the objective issue



Criticism is usually not made directly, but wrapped up carefully. The positive aspects of the relationship are emphasized first, then the criticism is made and finally a positive encouraging statement closes the message.

The “Sandwich principle”

4.1.9. Negotiating

Negotiating the price is part of business life and is an integral component of international negotiations. It is normal to discuss the price and make some concessions before finally coming to an agreement. The agreement should be a compromise in which not only the subject of the negotiation but also a positive atmosphere and the personal relationship to the business partner play a role. A flexible attitude and not being all too insistent with your own demands are the key to success in India. Points which have already been agreed on should be written down, otherwise a negotiation can easily start all over again. Sometimes negotiations can drag on, but they can also proceed rapidly as Indian business partners are quick to seize chances or accept new ideas. On the other hand, it can take longer to get official approval or certificates from the authorities and government bodies. This should be allowed for in the planning or when considering the feasibility of business deals.

4.1.10. Management style

As essential element of Indian management style is that there is one clearly recognizable boss of a company. Management is normally informed of all processes and makes all decisions, even those which a manager from a foreign country would consider trivial. In India, managers have a duty to take the initiative. If an employee has finished his task, he will wait for further instructions and will rarely present his work at his own initiative. A manager will scrupulously observe the work of his subordinates and is jointly responsible for work being performed properly and on time. Consequently, he must constantly control and check up on his team, encourage them where necessary and make sure that deadlines are met. Foreigners in India sometimes have problems delegating processes because they are not used to giving the exact and unambiguous instructions expected of them.

price negotiations normal

Some Indians believe that certain days are luckier than others. These “auspicious or inauspicious days” can delay closing a deal with Indian partners.

obligation of the manager to take the initiative

Good news

Bad news

Good news



Managers and older colleagues are respected. Dissension is rare and usually not expressed directly. Work on the relationship is usually given priority. Managers are expected to be interested in the private concerns of their employees and be prepared to listen to their personal problems. As a result, a manager often knows about the private life of his employees (and can help out in a difficult situation).

Thought patterns of employees in India - likes to make a good impression on his boss - would like to work in the USA at some stage - would like to become a manager - extrinsic - accepts his fate - caring and instructions

An Indian employee should be immediately praised for good work, best of all in a way that also lets his boss know (e.g. per cc in an email).

4.1.11. Sense of time

Time passes more slowly in India than in Germany. This is not immediately apparent on the streets of the larger cities. Nevertheless, time appears to be more freely available in India. Plans are not usually to the minute. Unfortunately, a consequence of this is that outside factors can interfere with deadlines and time schedules. Indians like to retain a certain degree of flexibility. Delays can happen at any time. It is not necessarily impolite to keep someone waiting. However, this kind of behavior is often merely snobbery or a show of power. Moreover, Indian culture is polychronic. Thus, Indians can address a number of activities at the same time.

4.1.12. Keeping agreements

For Indians, contracts and agreements represent the beginning of cooperation more than the end of the negotiations. The agreement marks the beginning of a relationship with the business partner and lasts until the business is finished. If the relationships remains good, it becomes easier and easier for the Indian party to initiate business because they feel that trust is a product of a personal relationship and not the product of a contract worded by a lawyer. In India the customer has an extremely high status. For this reason, all the customer’s wishes must be met or at least promised initially.

4.2. Outside the office

4.2.1. Invitations

Indians are good hosts. It is very common to be invited to their homes or a family celebration (such as a wedding). These invitations are meant seriously and should be accepted. An Indian family likes to

managers are also a point of contact for personal matters

polychronic and flexible definition of time

status of the customer



pride itself on hosting a special guest. Usually, family and friends will also be invited. The phrase “Atithi Devo Bhava” (the guest is God) says everything: the host will stop at nothing to please a welcome guest.

4.2.2. Gifts

Frequent giving of gifts is an important aspect of Indian culture. Giving and receiving gifts is part of business life and is expected. If you are invited to someone’s home, it is wise to take a small present. This could be flowers (still wrapped), special chocolate, sweets, or something typical of your home country. Alcoholic drinks are less appropriate as a number of Indians do not drink alcohol.

4.2.3. Eating and drinking habits

Many Indians (primarily Hindus) are strict vegetarians for religious reasons. And even those who do eat meat may not eat beef. Muslims do not eat pork. Thus fish, chicken and lamb are common meals. As the host, you must take account of these eating habits and offer suitable dishes. Food and drink is offered repeatedly. Often it is declined at first as a sign of courtesy and accepted only after a number of offers have been made. This pattern of behavior is part of the eating ritual and underscores the hospitality of the host. A meal brings the evening to a close. Guests leave soon after the meal (around 10 pm) to go home. If people go out for a drink, dinner will usually follow later in the evening. At private parties too, the drinks precede the dinner. Food is usually eaten with the fingers. Cutlery is normally only found in top class restaurants or if requested. Indians eat with the right hand and the left is only used to pass bowls, pots, etc. This is because it is reserved for personal toiletry and is therefore considered unclean. Hands are washed before the meal (most restaurants have special wash basins for this purpose) and often there is a bowl with warm (lemon) water on the table for rinsing the right hand. Noises while eating are not considered impolite but are taken as evidence that the guest is enjoying the meal. By contrast, it is extremely impolite to blow your nose during the meal.

4.2.4. Discussion topics and taboos

Indians are very outgoing and forthcoming. They are curious and keen to learn new things and like to talk with “strangers” about a wide range of matters. Suitable topics are the family and sport (particularly cricket). Many Indians frequently criticize their country in an emotional manner. However, foreigners are advised not to follow suit. Wide sweeping statements about the poverty of the country are not received favorably. Moreover, due to the public taboos associated with topics

giving gifts is customary

influence of religion



such as sex, eroticism, and relationships between the sexes, these issues should also be handled with care. The nuclear policy of the Indian government is also a sensitive issue.

4.3. The work ethic and leisure time

Indians often work very long hours and at the weekend if there is work to do at the company.


Cultural profile India | March 2005 5. Practical Tips and Advice 19 | 21

5. Practical Tips and Useful Advice

5.1. Courtesy and etiquette

Shoes should be taken off at the front door or in the entry. If you nevertheless do find yourself in the house with your shoes on, then you must, at the very latest, take your shoes off before you enter the room in which the house’s altar stands. The same applies for the kitchen. Shoes are also taken off before entering a temple. It is an insult to pass someone something with your left hand as this is considered impure (see page 16). Nor should you show someone the soles of your feet. Touching someone or a highly valued object (e.g. a book) with your feet can be taken as an affront which should be excused if it was accidental. Moreover, it is extremely impolite to put your feet on a chair or table.

5.2. Smoking

It is very rare to see women smoking in India, and it is not approved of. Smoking is also not customary in front of superiors, parents, or in the family as this is seen as a lack of respect for elders. Many Indians, particularly in rural areas, smoke beedis (strong Indian cigarettes made of a rolled-up tobacco leaf).

5.3. Telephoning

Public telephones (STD/ISD booths) do not usually accept coins. Instead of this, a person sitting nearby will be in charge of settling the bill. Telephones close temporarily during the day and are not open at night. Late at night they will only be open near railway stations or hospitals. The Indian mobile telephone network is being extended.

5.4. Climate

The Indian climate varies from the tropical monsoon in the south to a moderate climate in the north of the country. Owing to its altitude, the climate in Bangalore is usually very pleasant at around 25°C.

5.5. Photography

India is full of motives for foreign visitors. Nevertheless, discretion is called for, particularly at religious sites and with poor people. If in doubt, ask first before taking a photo. Most Indians will have no problem with it.

5.6. Bureaucracy

India is the largest democracy in the world. Moreover, the bureaucratic thought patterns adopted from England make India the largest bureaucracy in the world too. There are huge numbers of civil


Cultural profile India | March 2005 5. Practical Tips and Advice 20 | 21

servants. Official approval and stamps are needed for a number of things in India and these must obtained from numerous different offices. This can be very frustrating as it often means long waiting times. Patience and a good book can help here.

5.7. Important words and phases in Indian English

Although many people speak English in India, there are still a number of Indian words used. The following small selection should aid comprehension. lakh 100,000 crore 10 million

(million is rarely used) peon Office worker -ji at the end of a name A sign of respect wine shop No wine can be bought here but

other alcoholic drinks instead dhobi Laundryman bike Motorbike cycle Bicycle hotel Also used for restaurants cent percent 100% uncle/aunty Used by young people for older

people (if you know them already)


Cultural profile India | March 2005 6. Literature 21 | 21

- Bullis, Douglas: Succeed in Business: India. The Essential Guide for Business and Investment. Graphic Arts Center Publi-shing Company 1999, approx. 13 euro.

- Collins, Larry; Lapierre, Dominique: Freedom at Midnight Indian’s dramatic path towards independence. HarperCollins 1985.

- Joshi, Manoj: Passport India. Your Pocket Guide to Indian Busi-ness, Customs & Etiquette. O’Reilly & Associates, San Rafael 1997, 96 pages, approx. 7 euro.

- Kolanad, Gitanjali: Culture Shock India. A Guide to Customs and Etiquette. Kuperard 1999, 210 pages, approx. 14 euro.

- Mistry, Rohinton: A Fine Balance. Oprah’s Book Club, 2001, 862 Seiten, ca. 10 Euro. Bombay 1975: Four people meet: Dina Dalal, a woman in her early forties and widowed for nearly twenty years; Maneck Kohlah, a student from the Himalayas; Ishvar Darji, an incorrigible optimist, and his nephew Omprakash – two tailors who have fled the misery of the countryside to seek a better life in the city. The four main characters get to know, respect and love each other and are torn apart once again by events. Winner of the Giller Award.

- Palkhivala, Nani: We the people. 1998. - Palkhivala, Nani: We the nation. The lost decades. 1994. - Trompenaars, Fons: Riding the Waves of Culture.

Understanding cultural diversity in business. Nicholas Brealey Publishing, 1993. 271 pages In this book, the Dutch scientist and cultural trainer, founder of the Centre for International Business describes how to address, understand and sensibly exploit cultural differences in international business.

- More information on the geography, population, government,

economy, mass media, transport sector and military can be found in the internet at http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/gm.html

6. Literature

india

Documents

hdc2 international support

cultural profile india

caste system

social relationships

wide range

business partners

management style

higher status