Some time ago I had an acquaintance who I will call Shane drop by on a business trip from South India.  I decided to take him to a prominent Indian restaurant. After a small chit-chat we ordered food and everything seems to be going quite well.  Few minutes later, I excused myself to go to the washroom. When I got back the food had arrived, but I was somewhat puzzled as to why Shane had already started eating without waiting for me. Well, I thought perhaps he may have been extremely hungry.

However, to makes matters worse, he was eating mixture of rice and curry with his hands. The big question remains as to how does one tackle this sensitive cultural issue?  After all here is a 35 year old professional who is well dressed and educated. He is not only making me feel uncomfortable, but as well as few others patrons nearby. After pausing momentarily, I kindly reminded him that in the western culture it is inappropriate for one to eat with his hands that way he was doing. Shane quickly stopped and apologized, and after a few seconds of awkward pause, we both resumed our small talk.

However, eating Indian food can be a little tricky because the entire meal cannot be eaten with cutlery. For instance, roti or better known as nann has to be torn in small pieces by hand and then dip into curry sauce. The lesson in this is that as the businesses world becomes global, it is important for all of use to understand the basic cultural differences when going abroad. Knowing cultural differences is crucial because it will definitely make your business or pleasure trip more pleasant and fruitful. In addition, very important not to offend the natives, as the saying goes….When in Rome…