Intercultural Business Etiquette

India
Gestures
• Do not touch someone else’s head, not even to pat the hair of
a child. The head is considered the seat of the soul.
• Do not beckon someone with one finger. Extend an arm palm
down and make a scratching motion with the fingers.
• Do not wink, as it may be interpreted as an insult or a sexual
proposition.
• Do not point your feet at a person. Feet are considered
unclean. If your shoes or feet touch another person, apologize.
• Do not thank your hosts at the end of a meal. “Thank you” is
considered a form of payment and therefore insulting.
• Standing with your hands on your hips is an angry, aggressive
posture.
• Grasping the ears signifies sincerity or repentance, since ears
are considered sacred, boxing ones ears is a grave insult.
• Always eat with the right hand; the left hand is considered
unclean.
• Pointing with one finger is common.