Body language plays a tremendous role in Indian culture to supplement the spoken Hindi. In a highly gendered society it is better to avoid confrontations and misunderstanding by simple body language. For example a female will need to avoid eye contact in order to not draw attention to herself. Men for their part don't shake hands or touch women in public. Any pointing of the finger during a greeting should be avoided because of its accusatory connotation. They point with their chin to avoid offending anyone. These are just some basic signs and gestures that would help a non-native Indian to avoid confrontations while interacting with the natives.
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