What’s Considered Respectful Behaviour in India?

• Refer to older people as Uncle or Aunty, don’t refer to them by their name.
• Refer to people in official capacities as sir, or Madam. For example, police, employees in offices, etc.
• Use your right hand for giving and receiving (money, for example), and eating. The left hand is traditionally reserved for hygiene.
• Feet are considered unclean: Don’t point your feet at people or objects. If you accidentally touch other people with your feet, apologise to them.
• Public displays of affection (like kissing or hugging your partner) are best avoided in public places.
• Bargaining is normal in markets, but keep it friendly and respectful.
• Greetings: “Namaste” or “Hello” are polite and safe for all occasions – handshakes are becoming common, but not everyone is used to them.

In Temples & Sacred Places

• Remove your shoes before entering any temple or sacred space.
• Always enter a temple with your right foot. This means, any doorway with a step that you need to step over to enter a space should be crossed with the right foot. Also, do not step on this step.
• Dress modestly: knees and shoulders should be covered.
• Avoid loud conversations, selfies, or public displays of affection.
• Don’t touch holy objects or altars unless invited to.
• Sometimes non-Hindus are not allowed inside the inner sanctum — always follow posted signs or ask your hosts.
• If you want to offer donations, do so gently with the right hand.

When Visiting Someone’s Home

• Remove your shoes at the door unless told otherwise.
• When hosts offer you food or drink, they will insist multiple times as they want to be hospitable, which is entirely normal in India. It’s absolutely okay to say no politely, and you may need to do so multiple times till they stop. However, always thank them warmly.