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you eat with your guys from the main platter). In most places, utensils are used but you will be at ease more if you learn to eat with your fingers. And make sure you use your right hand for eating with fingers or utensils, as this is the normal status quo (exception of this custom is if you are left handed). Unless you are the guest, the men tend to eat first, followed by the Children and the women. In restaurants, this practice can be ignored as everyone eats when food arrives. But this is a common practice in households so be aware of it, especially if you are a woman.

If you are eating, and you finish everything or majority of the things in your plate, you will be asked if you want a refill or "seconds." If you are offered and you are hungry, make sure you take up on the offer because you will make the host happy that they are able to serve you. If you are full, do not eat everything of your plate. Leave some small amount of Rice or other food on the plate so they know you are done.

India is home for a variety of religions and each religion has difference practices and dietary rules. The Hindu population tend to be more vegetarian but even the less strict Hindus will never eat cows or beef. So if you are eating with Hindu friends and you are aware of this, try to respect their religious views and show courtesy by ordering some other foods (chicken is fine with alot of Hindus). Likewise, if your friend or host is Muslim, they are not allowed to eat Pork or partake in alcoholic drinks. Many Muslims will make small exceptions to Alcohol but make sure you ask your host before ordering the nice bottle of expensive wine. Pork is almost a taboo so don't even eat pork with Muslim friends, rather try beef or other fine dishes. Indian Jews also follow Kosher laws and other specifications, but many are more tolerant and it is actually rare to find Indian Jews in some parts of India since most are in South India or in Israel. Christians in India are mostly open to almost all food groups, much like the rest of the world (or the western peoples).

Overall, India is a experience of itself. You do not and cannot know India by just visiting a few cities or some areas. Each state of India is a unique part of India that cannot be found anywhere else. India has 28 States and 7 Federal Territories, and each of these regions have their own unique language (each state is created for a specific language - States Reorganization Act of India). Just like the languages, the people are different in each State. From the valleys of Kashmir to the foothills of Kerala to the Islands of Maldives, India shares a unique history and culture - all of which plays a important role in its dietary customs and cuisines. Thus India is a experience you just cannot forget and the food you will crave - you just have to find which type of "Indian food" you like...

Learn more about this author, Ebey Soman.
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