11 Ridiculous Questions about India Asked by Foreigners that Hit Indians Right in the Guts

Tripoto

Despite featuring on many bucket lists, India can be bewildering. The complexities of a multicultural, multi-ethnic society within a web of class and caste based pluralities can leave even the most informed travelers perplexed. Even with the ocean of information at the click of a button, oblivious assumptions are still prevalent. While there is no cure for willful ignorance, when faced with some of the more thoughtful questions about India, I sometimes find myself at a loss for words.

From honest cultural inquiries to quick queries, here are some questions asked to me by foreigners in India that have left me a stumped:

Questions about India On General Appropriations

Why do Indians stare?

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In a country of a billion people, personal space is a foreign concept. The staring has something to do with the lack of boundaries. Don't ask me what. I making most of this stuff up anyway.

What does the Indian head shake really mean?

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Whattay question! But that information is top secret classified undercover intelligence . Sawwrry!

Why do people drive like that? Are there no fines for traffic violations?

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Where do I even start..

Doesn't the honking drive people nuts?

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How do arranged marriages work?

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Ummmm..let me google that for you.

On Culture, Poverty and Politics

How accurate was Slumdog Millionaire's portrayal of child trafficking in India?

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There's never an easy way to answer such questions about India.

Did your prime minister really commit genocide?

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Let's just not go there.

Why do cows in India eat plastic?

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Is it really unsafe for women in India?

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Image Credits: Sandeepa Chetan

As a female Indian solo globetrotter, I have plenty of thoughts on the subject. But let me dodge this question without changing the subject - A number of women travel alone in India. Read about their stories on Tripoto.

On language

How do you say Cheers in Hindi?

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What's the Indian version of Bon Appetit?

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Does anyone know? Anyone?

How would you answer these questions when asked by a foreigner? Shed light on these controversial inquiries on Tripoto.

And seriously, is there a word for "Cheers!" in any Indian language? I would love to know. Got more questions about India? Feel free to drop 'em in the comments!

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