Spatial Perception
When doing business in India, meeting etiquette requires a handshake. However, Indians themselves greet with “Namaste” (na-mas-TAY). This is where the palms are brought together at chest level with a slight bow of the head. Using the Namaste is appreciated as it is an indication of your respect and understanding towards the Indian customs.
When meeting or leaving, men shake hands with men. However, men do not touch women when meeting, greeting, or leaving. Western women may offer their hand to a westernized Indian man, but normally not to others. Additionally, traditional Indian women may shake hands with foreign women but not usually with foreign men. In India, public displays of affection are not proper.
Indians generally allow an arm’s length of space between themselves and others. Indians value personal space therefore – do not stand close to them. Furthermore, do not touch anyone’s head, the head is considered sensitive. In India, feet are considered unclean. Feet are sacred for holy men and women which is why pointing footwear at people is considered an insult.
While Indians value their personal space, some Indian men may engage in friendly back patting merely as a sign of friendship. Spatial perception is an important aspect of the meeting culture in India and should therefore be respected.
When meeting or leaving, men shake hands with men. However, men do not touch women when meeting, greeting, or leaving. Western women may offer their hand to a westernized Indian man, but normally not to others. Additionally, traditional Indian women may shake hands with foreign women but not usually with foreign men. In India, public displays of affection are not proper.
Indians generally allow an arm’s length of space between themselves and others. Indians value personal space therefore – do not stand close to them. Furthermore, do not touch anyone’s head, the head is considered sensitive. In India, feet are considered unclean. Feet are sacred for holy men and women which is why pointing footwear at people is considered an insult.
While Indians value their personal space, some Indian men may engage in friendly back patting merely as a sign of friendship. Spatial perception is an important aspect of the meeting culture in India and should therefore be respected.