AboutAnil Expertise Indian culture could be a subject for a lifetime, but I can answer general questions regarding the Indian culture. I can answer questions relating to relationships, family, religion, and education in the context of the Indian culture.I have lived in the US for about 10 years and therefore can answer some cross-culture type questions.
Experience I was born and raised in India. I lived in India for about 25 years before I came to the US. I lived in the US for 10 years, but in those ten years, I had closed ties in India, so I am quite familiar with the Indian culture and the mainstream Indian society. I have always been fascinated by culture and diversity, so I can give a critical analysis of some of the cross cultural issues. I have conducted culture related training programs to educate visitors to India.
Question Hello, I've just recently started dating a man from India who has only been in the states for about a year. He's fairly unfamiliar with western dating, in fact I think I might be his first date in the U.S. This has caused a few awkward situations between us, kiss or don't kiss on first date, etc. His family raised him in a more contemporary Indian manner, and are comfortable with him dating outside of their culture- but I'd really like to know perhaps how Indian relationships work, as far as the whole courting thing goes. I know there's a lot of planned marriages, but what about everyone else? This way maybe I can understand some of the non-verbals I'm getting, and we can progress in our relationship a little more smoothly.
Thanks so much!
Answer Hi Amanda,
Rather than trying to give a lengthy response, i will characterize your situation and give you an analogy. And I hope you will get the clue.
Until recently, dating was not an acceptable social practice in India. Dating is getting some level of acceptance in a very small percentage of the population, predominantly in the large cities. Which means you are dealing with an individual who has very very limited exposure to dating and (romantic) relationships with the opposite sex. So think about your early teenage years, and how you have outgrown those early years. Place this man as someone in the early teens. Clearly, I am indicating to you the immaturity and this person's lack of experience with relationships and dating. So you might have some disappointments and setbacks if you keep very high expectations. So set your expectations appropriately.
