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India Physical Features India is the 7th largest country in the world in terms of landmass and dominates most of the South Asian subcontinent. It is bordered on the southeast by the Bay of Bengal and on the southwest by the Arabian Sea (a part of the Indian Ocean). Its northern neighbors are the countries of Nepal, China, Bhutan, and Pakistan. Nestled within the eastern wing of India lies Bangladesh, with Myanmar (Burma) sharing borders with India on the far eastern wing of the country. The northern border of India is marked by the magnificent Himalayan Mountains. Within this huge country, just about every geographical zone, from rainforest to desert, can be found. Approximately half of the land is arable, 14% is used for pasture and grazing, 8% is irrigated, and approximately one-quarter of the land is forested. Approximately 30% of the population live in urban areas, accounting for over 235 million people. India’s four largest cities – New Delhi, Mumbai (Bombay), Calcutta, and Chennai (Madras) – are four very different and distinct environments. Situated in the north is the country's capital, New Delhi. This modern city lies next to its ancient twin, the 3,000-year-old city of Delhi. Together, they exhibit an incredible variety in culture. Blending the ancient and the modern, poverty and wealth, Mumbai (formerly Bombay), located in the central-west, is India's most cosmopolitan city. Calcutta, the capital of West Bengal, is situated 129 km (80 mi) north of the Bay of Bengal, and is the gateway to northeastern India. It is known for its manufacturing industry and its commerce. Chennai (Madras), located on the Bay of Bengal and considered the most traditional of all cities, is noted for its engineering and consumer industry development. Northern India, bordered by Pakistan, Tibet, and Nepal, is made up of mountainous Himalayan states and the fertile regions of Punjab and the Gangetic plain. The northernmost mountain state is Jammu and Kashmir, a vast but not highly populated state that is also partly occupied by Pakistan. The agrarian state of Madhya Pradesh, located in the center of the country, is the largest state in India. It links the Gangetic plain with the Deccan Plateau to the south. This plateau is one of the oldest geological formations in the world and comprises most of peninsular India. Eastern India sprawls upwards towards Bhutan, Tibet/China, Myanmar (Burma), and Bangladesh. North of Calcutta in West Bengal is the Himalayan state of Sikkim, which until 1975 was an independent Buddhist kingdom. The weather in India is mostly tropical or subtropical with monsoon winds and heavy rainfall inundating many regions during the summer. However, northern areas experience cool winter temperatures from October through February, with minimum temperatures as low as 7°C (45°F) and maximum temperatures of 21°C (70°F) in January. The warmest months throughout the country are generally from March to July, with temperatures reaching up to 47°C (117°F). Many regions also experience very high humidity. Summer monsoon rains occur in most regions between June and September. The southwest monsoon, which affects most of the country, occurs from about mid-June to early October; winds from the Indian Ocean carry moisture-laden air across the subcontinent causing heavy rainfall and often flooding. Frequently, approximately three-quarters of the country’s annual precipitation falls during this period People With a population of over a billion people, India is the second most populated country in the world, after China. It is a country rich in culture and diversity. The country's regions all have their own individual characteristics and are vastly different. It has been said that national identity lags behind regional, religious, and linguistic identities. In addition, urban and rural areas can be quite different, with traditional lifestyles perhaps being more closely adhered to in the rural areas. An overwhelming majority (82%) are adherents to Hinduism, followed distantly by the main religious minority groups of Islam (12%), Christianity (3%), Sikhism (2%), and smaller numbers of Buddhists and Jains. Although the ethnic history of India remains a contentious issue, the most popular characterization is a rudimentary divide between the Indo-European peoples, sometimes referred to as Aryans, and the Dravidian descendants. Popular history depicts an Aryan mass migration or invasion from the northeast into India around 1500 BC that gradually came to dominate the northern regions of the subcontinent. The darker skinned Dravidian descendants, whom occupied the land prior to the Indo-Europeans, maintained control of southern India. Most ethnic breakdowns suggest that the Indo-European descendants comprise about 70% of the ethnic divide, whereas the Dravidian descendants occupy approximately one-quarter of India’s ethnic composition. Some scholars suggest that the basic Indo-European / Dravidian divide greatly undermines the complex history of the people in India. Others suggest that the division is not an ethnically based division, but a linguistic divide. Although India’s people speak literally hundreds of regional dialects and languages, the overwhelming majority fall into one of two categories: Indo-European or Dravidian. Other predominant linguistic influences are of Mon-Khmer and Sino-Tibetan origins. India recognizes 18 official languages, has newspapers printed in 87 languages, radio programs in over 70 languages, and has representatives of over 1,650 languages countrywide. The caste system, similar to the Western notion of class, but more complex, shapes Indian society and its social structures. The system is generally thought to have been introduced by the Indo-Europeans that arrived in India from the northeast. There are tens of thousands of castes and sub-castes. The three highest castes are Brahmins (priests-intellectuals), Kshatriyas (warrior-nobles) and Vaishyas (businesspeople). This group comprises only one-sixth of the Indian population, but members of these castes hold most of the government jobs and white-collar jobs. Legislative reforms in recent years have made it illegal to discriminate on the basis of caste, but despite this, decisions based on caste-preference continues to be practiced throughout the country. Efforts to raise the status of the “untouchables” and other lower castes, long considered the poor and powerless in society, have not been met with universal approval. Gandhi gave the name Harijan, meaning “children or person of God” to the untouchables. Today they are referred to as dalits. This group makes up 44% of the population and is said to have little chance of improving its socio-economic circumstances. They are often found in jobs that others won’t do, such as street, drain cleaning, or tending to cremation grounds. Many Indians are religious and family-oriented people. Many cherish ideals of self-sacrifice and humility; tolerance and social harmony are perceived to be supreme virtues. Many hold ideals of non-aggression and generosity. Meeting & Greeting The namaste is the traditional greeting in India among Hindus. Interpreted literally, the namaste is a greeting that recognizes the holiness in each person, as it suggests, “I salute the god in you.” A namaste is conducted by placing the hands together in a prayer-like fashion, holding them close to the chest and bowing the head slightly, while saying “namaste.” The eyes are also lowered as a gesture of humility and trust. Although the handshake is a western convention, it is also used quite frequently, either as an addition to the namaste or as an alternative to it. The handshake will likely be quite soft. A loose-grip handshake is more a reflection of a need to appear modest rather than a sign of insincerity. Indian (Muslim or Hindu) men do not typically shake hands with women or have any physical contact with women in public. However, an exception is usually made towards western women, with whom Indian men will likely shake hands. Professional titles (doctor, lawyers, professors) must be used if they are known. Professional titles are generally used in conjunction with the appropriate honorific and precede the individual’s given name. Using the suffix ji with the person's name demonstrates respect. Indians tend to entertain guests frequently. Entertaining at a home is more popular than doing so at a restaurant. Visitors to India may be overwhelmed with invitations. Although Indians are averse to using direct “no” answers, visitors need not feel compelled to accept all offers. Politely declining or offering non-committal answers is acceptable. It is permissible for guests to arrive 15 to 30 minutes beyond the indicated time of the invitation. Do not expect to eat upon arrival. Depending on the event, it could be a few hours before a meal is served. Parties, especially in Delhi, can be quite long and formal. Indian culture includes superstitions and fears of attracting bad spirits. Therefore, too many compliments on the physical appearance of any person may be viewed with suspicion, and could be taken as inciting the evil spirits to bring bad luck upon the head of that person. Too much admiration of an Indian’s house, or his goods, can have the same effect. Upon arrival at a social function, an occasional custom has guests adorned with a garland of flowers (generally jasmine or marigold). These should be removed shortly after as a sign of humility. Non-verbal Communication Among most Indians, the left hand is considered unclean and should not be used in passing items, touching people, or touching items unless necessary. Touching a person on the head, including a child, should be avoided. The head is seen as the temple of the soul. It is highly inappropriate to let feet or shoes touch another person. If it does happen accidentally, an apology should be offered immediately. Feet should not be placed on desks or other items of furniture. Furthermore, one should not expose the soles of one’s feet. Before entering a temple or mosque, it is proper to ask for permission. Shoes may be permitted. Men and women should be dressed modestly. A common gesture used by Indians is the “lip point.” When asked for directions, an Indian may respond with chin tilted and lips pursed in the appropriate direction. To say “no thank you” politely, hands are held in the starting position of the namaste (palms together, fingers up) and then twisted so the palms are opened outwards. Food & Eating Etiquette The food in India varies widely depending on the culture and the region. Fresh fruits and vegetables are relatively easy to find. Beef is often not available, but lamb, mutton, pork, poultry, duck, and partridge may be bought instead. Indians living in coastal areas frequently eat fish, but Hindus and Muslims living in Central India and Punjab seldom do, as fish is not readily available. Lentils and vegetables are eaten throughout the country, as is bread, although the latter is not consumed to any great extent. Rice is the staple in the south, while wheat bread (roti) is favored in the north. There are many varieties of rice and it can be cooked in so many different ways. Indian meals are typically very spicy; curry dishes are popular throughout the country. Vegetarianism is widely practiced, often for religious reasons. Each caste has its own food laws and customs, as does each religion. Many Hindus as well as Brahmins, Jains, and Buddhists are vegetarians who will not eat eggs. Those who eat flesh may only eat chicken or mutton, but never pork as the pig is considered unclean, nor beef as the cow is considered a sacred animal. A food popularly associated with the Indian subcontinent is “curry,” yet not every Indian dish or spiced dish is a curry dish and neither is curry just one dish. “Curry” — a term that is more apt to be used in Britain or North America than India — embraces a whole range of recipes, each distinctly different according to the spices and herbs used in various combinations. Consequently, “curry powder” is not available as such; rather, as masala, a varying blend of spices. Subtle, pungent, hot, or mild, India’s highly seasoned menu provides a dish to suit every palate. Caste is as embedded in India’s food as it is in other aspects of Indian life. Similarly, most dishes have their origin in a particular region of the country, and flavors may vary accordingly. Business Practices & Etiquette Generally, business is conducted in a relaxed yet reserved manner. Certain formalities in behavior, attributable to British traditions, may be evident in Indian business environments. Also, a great deal of emphasis may be placed on maintaining social harmony. Relationships are based on mutual respect, confidence, and trust. Visitors should be prepared to establish close personal contacts, as they are extremely important. It is advisable to begin the appointment booking process two months in advance and seek a confirmation on the day prior to the meeting. Accommodations should also be booked in advance. English is spoken throughout the country and is the language of business and government. Usually there is no need for interpretive or translation services. Business cards are usually exchanged and should include titles and other designations. Cards are typically traded at initial introductions. Business cards may be printed in English only. Titles are highly regarded, so it is wise to use professional titles such as Doctor and Professor. Business contacts without a professional title may be addressed using Mr., Mrs., or Miss, followed by surname. Use of first names should to be avoided unless invited to do so. In Hindu culture, it is a sign of respect to add “-ji” to the end of a first name. This may add an air of status to the person’s name. Indian Sikhs are appropriately addressed by title and first name. Business dress is generally casual. A lightweight suit for men may only be worn during the cool season and on formal occasions. Otherwise, pants and a short-sleeved shirt or shirt and tie is suitable for the office. Businesswomen wear dresses or suits that are modest and not too revealing. Negotiations Indians tend to be known for their considerable commercial skill and clever negotiation tactics. Openness to new ideas and experimentation are characteristic traits of Indian business people. The pace of business in India is typically more leisurely than most western countries. Expect delays, the process of finalizing agreements is often a long one. The process of decision-making may be quickened if the visiting businessperson uses intermediaries and expresses appreciation to influential Indian counterparts. Bargaining tends to be expected between counterparts. The issue of price is generally discussed only after all other details have been settled. Saying “no” directly tends to be avoided. Instead, disagreement may be hinted at, responses delayed, or inquiries ignored. As well, if an Indian does not know the answer to your question, he/she will not likely say, “I don’t know.” Vague, evasive responses such as “I’ll try” are acceptable. It is advisable to demonstrate patience instead of being confrontational; asking open-ended questions that may be answered positively will aid communications. Because verbal communications tend to be more indirect than direct, it is important to make sure you are understood. For example, “yes” may mean “I understand” but not “I agree.” Written confirmation is always recommended. Indian negotiators may tailor their responses according to what they expect the other party wants to hear. Women in Business In the past, women in India experienced many difficulties when trying to enter the business field; a female executive was a rarity. Traditional occupations for Indian women have been medicine, teaching, support positions, and politics at all levels. Today, many women are found throughout the business world, especially in electronics, engineering, and related fields. Many female entrepreneurs experience difficulties in receiving social and financial support from their families, some of which may prefer more traditional roles of a woman within the family unit. Visiting businesswomen are generally treated with respect and courtesy. Though many Indian businessmen are quite westernized, their views towards Indian women may be varied; some admire traditional female roles while others are proud of a woman’s professional success. Businesswomen may entertain Indian businessmen over dinner without cause for concern. Western women are advised to dress conservatively and behave in a reserved manner. Business Entertaining & Gift Giving Indian business people are said to be very welcoming of visitors and quite hospitable. Business entertainment will usually take place in restaurants, often over dinner or lunch, during which social and business affairs might be discussed. Business lunch or entertaining over tea is often preferred over dinner. Religious beliefs often impose certain dietary restrictions -- Hindus abstain from beef, Muslims from pork, and many others are vegetarian. To avoid embarrassment when inviting business associates out for a meal, it is a good idea to inquire about their preferences first and/or have them suggest a suitable restaurant. Strict punctuality is not expected for dinner engagements. Unless it is an official function, you may arrive a few minutes late. If you are going to a home, arriving 15 to 30 minutes late is acceptable. It is very important to wash your hands both before and after the meal. Hindus also wash their mouths with water and visitors may be expected to do so as well. Dinner tends to be served quite late (as late as 11:00 pm); it is usually the final event of the evening. Soon after eating is concluded, guests are usually expected to leave. The evening will most likely proceed at a very leisurely pace. Business gifts are not a part of doing business in India. Further Reading Fodor’s Exploring India By Fodor’s Fodor’s Travel Publications, Latest edition Berlitz India Pocket Guide By Berlitz Berlitz, 1999 Lonely Planet: India By Sarina Singh Lonely Planet Publications, Latest edition Eyewitness Travel Guides: India By Abha Narain Lamba Dk Pub Merchandise, Latest edition Travelers Survival Kit India Vacation Work Publications, 1999 Let’s Go: India & Nepal By Mary B. Tryer St. Martin’s Press, Latest edition World Food India By Martin Hughes Lonely Planet Publications, 2001 Into India By John Keay University of Michigan Press, 1999 A Traveler’s History Of India By Sinharaja Tammita-Delgoda Interlink Publishing, 1999 India By Rail By Royston Ellis Gordon Soules Book Publishers, 1998 Lonely Planet: Delhi By Richard Plunkett & Hugh Finley Lonely Planet Publications, 1999 Business Guide To India By Jitendra Kohli Butterworth-Heinemann, 1997 A History Of India By Burton Stein Blackwell Publishers, 1998 India By Stanley Wolpert University of California Press, 1999 A Cultural History Of India By A. L. Basham Oxford University Press, 1998 The Spice Is Right: Easy Indian Cooking By Monica Bhide Callawind Publications, 2001 The Global Etiquette Guide To Asia By Dean Foster John Wiley & Sons, 2000 Online Resources http://www.newsindia-times.com/ - News India Times http://www.indiagov.org/ - Embassy of India in Washington DC http://www.deccanherald.com/ - Deccan Herald newspaper http://www.lonelyplanet.com/ - Lonely Planet travel guide http://www.india-today.com/ - Entertainment and news http://www.freeindia.org/ - India history and information http://www.indiaworld.com/ - Library of information on India http://www.timesofindia.com/ - The Times of India newspaper http://www.webindia.com/ - Business information http://www.bbc.co.uk/ - BBC news http://www.feer.com/ - Far Eastern Economic Review http://www.economist.com/ – International business news