cul·ture < noun > 5 a:     the integrated pattern of human knowledge, belief, and behavior that depends upon man’s capacity for learning and transmitting knowledge to succeeding generations b : the customary beliefs, social forms, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group c: the set of shared attitudes, values, goals, and practices that characterizes a company or corporation.    (Merriam-Webster)

What does this mean?

Whether you realize it or not, you have grown up in and developed an understanding of a particular culture. Your culture has determined how you behave and interact. In South Asia, there are many different people groups with many different cultures that you will come in contact with during your time here. Below we have noted some cultural differences that you are likely to face in South Asia so that you can better prepare to face the challenge of serving in a foreign culture.

WHAT TO WEAR:

India
It is appropriate for men to wear pants and a dress shirt or t-shirt and for women to wear pants and long, baggy shirts. In some cities and in village environments, women should wear traditional dress, the salwar kameez, which can be bought at a reasonable price in most markets.

Nepal
For men, pants must be worn unless playing sports. For women, pants must be worn any time they are in public. There are plenty of material shops where you can get local clothing made. Khakis and jeans are fine. Conservative is always better. Tight-fitting clothing draws unnecessary attention and many stares. Proper trekking gear and boots should be brought for those traveling into the mountains. Some knock-off items are available.

Bangladesh
Ladies need to wear local dress, which can be obtained after arrival. Price ranges from $15 up. Men wear jeans, khakis and conservative dress. Shorts should not be worn by either. Sandals that are easy to take on and off are best. This assists in removal of shoes when entering homes of nationals.

Pakistan
Conservative dress is necessary for both men and women. Women should wear traditional dress with a head covering. Covering as much skin as possible is advised. Men should wear pants and dress shirts. Shorts should not be worn by either.

HOW TO INTERACT:

South Asia is a place of rich and long-standing traditions and cultures. There is a reason for the way each woman on the street wears her sari in the particular style she does. The very design of her fabric denotes the region and country that she calls home. The casual observer from North American does not pick up on or understand these delicate intricacies. There are many foreigners that have passed through these places and left the people with a number of unfortunate assumptions. They assume a foreigner will not respect their traditions or understand their forms of hospitality. Your respectful interaction with these people will be an important element in sharing the love of Christ with them in ways that they will understand.

How can you interact in South Asia in a way that will build a bridge for the Gospel?

Be a Learner: Come with a spirit prepared to learn how individuals in South Asia do things. Do not simply compare them to the way you are used to doing things. Be prepared to ask nationals questions about how they do things and why. This can open many doors.

Show Respect: You can show respect through your greetings and your dress. By doing this, you can demonstrate a different spirit from other foreigners. Your clothing should be conservative and appropriate for your country.

Abide by Gender Separation: South Asia cultures draw distinct lines between male and female roles. Males and females do not touch or speak in public unless in an appropriate cultural context. A sign of respect for their culture is to abide by this structure with fellow foreigners and nationals.

Be Patient with Yourself and Others: The people of South Asia may not understand your culture or worldview either.

Be Ready to Adjust: Allow yourself to adjust to these differences. Also, allow those around you time to adjust to you.

CULTURAL ISSUES:

Use the right hand when handling food, money, gifts, and basically anything but shoes and toilet paper. The left hand is considered unclean, and it is highly offensive to offer something to someone with the left hand. In South Asia, your right hand is your fork and your left hand is your Charmin tissue.

In 99.9% of the homes, people remove their shoes before entering the home. Before going into a religious place, you remove your shoes as well.

Relationships should be built on a same-gender basis.

In Bangladesh and Nepal, do not touch anyone’s head and never point with your feet.