Local Customs & Etiquette in Bhubaneshwar, India

1. Offering at Lingaraj Temple

Visitors often offer flowers, coconuts, and money to the deity. Respect local customs by following this practice.

Spiritual Offerings: Understand that offerings are a way to express devotion and respect.
Respectful Giving: Offerings should be done with both hands, palms together, symbolizing respect.
Appropriate Offerings: Use fresh flowers and coconuts; avoid offering torn or wilted items.

Streetside food stalls are common. Always eat with your right hand if provided utensils aren't available.

Cultural Cuisine: Experience authentic Bhubaneswar street food in a unique manner.
Local Etiquette: Use your right hand to eat, unless using utensils is provided.
Hygiene Considerations: Ensure food has been prepared hygienically and wash hands before eating.

Visitors must cover their legs and upper body when entering Buddhist monasteries.

Respectful Attire: Covering up is a sign of respect towards religious beliefs.
Availability of Coverings: If you are not dressed appropriately, coverings will be provided.
Clothing for Women: Women may need to wear a scarf or shawl over their head.

Locals usually greet with a slight bow and the word 'Namaste'. This gesture is used to show respect.

Cultural Greeting: Understand and use 'Namaste' when meeting locals.
Body Language: Use a slight bow to show respect, keeping your palms together in front of your chest.
Timing of Greeting: Greet at the start and end of interactions, as well as when meeting someone new.

Accepting food or drink from a host is customary during visits to local homes.

Hospitality Customs: Being offered food or drink is a sign of friendship and hospitality.
Refusal Manners: If you cannot accept an offer, refuse politely by saying 'Nahi' (no) but with the left hand covered by the right.
Reciprocation: Consider bringing a small gift as a token of friendship when visiting local families.

Elders are held in high respect. Stand up when an elder enters the room and offer them a seat.

Respect for Elders: Standing up and offering a seat shows respect for their wisdom and experience.
Body Language: Speak softly and keep eye contact when interacting with elders.
Social Interaction: Elders are typically the leaders in social gatherings.

Remove shoes before entering temples and maintain silence to show respect.

Respectful Behavior: Removing shoes demonstrates a willingness to follow temple rules.
Silent Prayers: Quiet prayer and meditation are encouraged within temples.
Dress Code: Cover your legs and upper body when visiting Hindu temples.

Littering is strictly prohibited in public spaces. Dispose of waste properly.

Cleanliness: Preserve the beauty and cleanliness of Bhubaneswar.
Waste Management: Locals take pride in their city and appreciate visitors who follow this rule.
Respect for Environment: Conserving the environment is essential for future generations.

Haggling over prices is expected in local markets. Be prepared to negotiate.

Price Negotiation: Expect to negotiate the price of goods, especially at street markets.
Polite Persuasion: Use polite and respectful language when negotiating prices.
Fair Price: Aim for a fair price that both you and the seller are comfortable with.

Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transportation. Bargain for fair prices before starting the journey.

Affordable Travel: Tuk-tuks offer an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Bargaining Skills: Practice your bargaining skills for a fair price.
Safe Travel: Confirm the fare before starting your journey and choose safe, well-maintained tuk-tuks.

Street performers often entertain passersby. Be considerate when watching and tip appropriately.

Cultural Entertainment: Enjoy local talent and contribute to their livelihood.
Appreciative Audiences: Clapping and cheering show your appreciation for the performance.
Tipping Practice: Consider tipping if you enjoyed the performance.

Give up your seat for elderly, women, and people with disabilities.

Respectful Behavior: Offering your seat shows respect for others.
Sharing Space: Bus travel requires patience and understanding of sharing space with others.
Courtesy in Queues: Form orderly queues when boarding or alighting from buses.

If invited to a wedding, expect multiple functions over several days.

Cultural Celebration: Experience the richness of traditional Bhubaneswar weddings.
Mandatory Presence: Accepting an invitation means you are expected to attend all functions.
Gift Giving: Bring a small gift for the newlyweds, such as sweets or silverware.

Participate in local festivals like Dussehra and Ratha Jatra to immerse yourself in the culture.

Cultural Immersion: Take part in traditional celebrations and learn about Bhubaneswar's rich heritage.
Respectful Behavior: Follow local customs during festival celebrations, such as dress codes and prayer rituals.
Community Bonding: Connect with the locals and share in their joy during festivals.

Ask for permission before taking photographs of people or sacred sites.

Respectful Practices: Respecting people's privacy and religious beliefs is essential.
Polite Request: Ask politely before taking photographs, using the appropriate greeting and body language.
Considerate Sharing: Share your photos with locals if they are comfortable with it.