It can serve as an alternative to thank you, as a polite introduction, or it can represent acknowledgement. Head bobbles can also be used in an intentionally vague manner. An unenthusiastic head bobble can be a polite way of declining something without saying no directly. The gesture is common throughout India.
One thing all travellers to India talk about – apart from the dreaded Delhi Belly, of course – is the great Indian head nod. It's not exactly a nod (up and down from the neck, meant to indicate 'yes') – or a shake (straight side to side to convey 'no').
The head wobble has its origins in an ancient form of dance in South India called Bharat Natyam. The head gesture known as Parivahitam involves shaking the head to the left and right and signifies harmony.
The 'Indian head bobble', the 'Indian head' or the 'Indian Head Shake', as it's most often known, is common across South Asian cultures, but most notable in Indian culture. It involves a side to side or diagonal tilting of the head which can be used to communicate a diverse range of thoughts, feelings and intentions.
It can mean anything from "good" to "I understand." Indians who do not speak English will often rely on a head wobble to communicate with foreign tourists. The head wobble is most commonly used as a sign to show that what's being said is understood.
In many cultures, it is most commonly, but not universally, used to indicate disagreement, denial, or rejection. It can also signify disapproval or upset at a situation, often with slower movement.
Meeting and Greeting
Westerners may shake hands, however, greeting with 'namaste' (na-mas-TAY) (placing both hands together with a slight bow) is appreciated and shows respect for Indian customs.
To touch someone on the top of their head is considered rude and insensitive. This is especially the case with babies, children, elderly, religious leaders or statues of deities. To show the utmost respect towards a religious leader, statue of a deity or an elder, one will touch the feet of the person or the statue.
Never touch anything with your feet, and don't point the bottom of your feet at religious altars or toward people. To avoid this, sit cross-legged or kneel on the floor while in a temple or holy place. If you must extend your legs, point them away from sacred icons. Never turn your backside to a religious statue.
When greeting elders, some Indians may reach down and touch the ground or the elder's feet as a sign of respect. It is advisable to address people by their title (Mr, Mrs, etc.) and last name until they have indicated that you may move on to a first-name basis.
Head shaking in Bulgaria, Greece, or Turkey
In a few regions of the world, a shake of the head means “yes”, and a nod of the head means "no." However, this "back-to-front" system is extremely rare and is most prominently found in Bulgaria.
The most common way to show agreement and say 'yes' in Bulgaria is to shake your head from side to side, a gesture that in many countries means no. And it's not just Bulgaria! Greece, Iran, Lebanon, Turkey and Egypt all follow the same method.
In most cultures, it is customary to shake hands when meeting someone. But in Asian countries, particularly in Japan, China, Taiwan and Korea, bowing the head is the more traditional form of greeting. In Europe on the other hand, bowing the head is typically used by the aristocracy and nobility.
Shaking your head does not mean 'NO'.
Actually, in Nepal, nodding your head means 'NO' and bobbing your head side-to-side (as if bringing each ear closer to your shoulder) means 'YES'. A very practical thing to know!
It is the same in China and Chinese culture we nod our heads (up-and-down) to say "Yes" and shake our heads (left-to-right) to say "No". There are no other gestures to say "Yes" or "No". However, to indicate you agree with someone or something, you can also say "en" while you are nodding you head.
Japan. The middle finger is a brotherly gesture in Japan. When used in the context of Japanese Sign Language, it's translated as 'ani' to mean older brother. Sometimes the Japanese alternate two middle fingers in the air to mean siblings.
French Style Handshakes
If you travel to France for business, you will probably notice that handshakes are generally soft and short.
RUSSIA - Russians usually use a firm (sometimes very firm) handshake when meeting a guest.
Travelling through Thailand you will notice the Thai “wai”, a greeting performed by a slight bow, with the palms pressed together in a prayer-like fashion. Handshakes are not a traditional greeting in Thailand and many people may feel uncomfortable engaging in this very western greeting.
For instance in some countries and cultures, firm handshakes are seen as rude and a sign of aggression. In places such as China; the Middle East; North, Southern and West Africa; and South America, handshakes are usually lighter and last much longer than in Western countries.
Express disapproval, dissent, or doubt, as in That announcement had us shaking our heads in dismay. This expression, which can be used both literally (for moving one's head from side to side) and figuratively, dates from about 1300.
In Vietnam, you should only shake hands with someone who's your equal in age or rank. In Thailand, instead of shaking hands, you're more likely to bow with your hands together and up to your chest. And don't be surprised if someone from France and many other places pulls you in for a double cheek kiss!
Based on a historical survey of the origins and development of the Hindu religion and its absorption of Buddhism the author outlines that tolerance, gentle behaviour, profound optimism and a lack of obsession with time are the main features of Indian mentality and behaviour.
Namaste. Probably the most famous Indian gesture is the folding of the hands in front of the chest to form a Namaste. This greeting is understood and often used throughout India.
Treat Indian elders with visible respect. For example, address them first and defer to their opinion. Always sit lower than them, and avoid speaking directly or harshly. Be patient when making decisions or negotiating with your Indian counterpart.