The simple secret to surviving India

You just landed in India. You’re a bit stressed: it’s absolutely normal. But let me just tell you a simple thing, and everything will go just fine. In a matter of days, the Indian in you will be fully awakened.

The head tilt.

This is a very simple gesture: just tip your head from side to side with a small angle (around 15°), repeatedly. Don’t make it start at the top of the head; your chin should be driving the movement. Limit yourself to three or four tilts, in a fluid movement. Got it? Yes, you’re doing it right.

You just learnt the secret to Indian communication. A stranger is talking to you in an unknown language? Just concur, using your newly learnt skill. Congratulations! You successfully communicated. Look at the visible satisfaction in your new friend’s eyes.

Huh? You still don’t understand what it means? You’re puzzled by this taxi driver’s use of the gesture when you give your destination? Was it “yes”, was it “no”?

No, you’re not getting it: it doesn’t have a meaning, because it IS the language. Does English have a meaning?

But the comparison with English stops here. The tilt head is much more powerful. What other language allows you to communicate “I reluctantly agree to the price you have given me, but be aware you get all my contempt” with such concision?

Warning: Excessive use of the tilt head may severely impair your communication skills back at home. Use at your own risk.


Warm regards,
Arthur Cheysson
New Delhi, India

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