Pace yourself, for the host will offer the food personally several times-“please take one more”. Two or three types of pickles and chutneys may be served with the snack. They are usually prepared ahead of time (for pre-announced guests) and then quickly heated before serving. The snacks offered can be purchased, homemade or a combination. Even children when visiting their friend’s house will be offered some snack. The more important the guest, the higher the number of dishes. If the visit was preplanned you may be offered 3 to 5 or more varieties of snacks. There is a gentleness and humbleness to this offering.Ī little later you are offered tea, coffee, or a cold beverage with snacks. You put the glass down on the table only per guest’s request. You bring a glass of water, that is full to the rim (about 1/4 inch below), and wait until the guests take hold of it, and smile or nod before you leave.
Even the children know how to offer water. Within a few minutes of entering the house, you will be offered a glass of water, a ritual that is ingrained among most Indians. When you enter an Indian home, you are immediately taken care of. A visit is considered incomplete without offering and receiving food. Most Indians take pride in making a visitor feel comfortable and cared for. The Sanskrit saying " Atithi Devo Bhava," meaning "guest is god," conveys the respect granted to guests. Hospitality is central to Indian culture. (page 51 in book) Snacks, Chaat, and Beverages Introduction: Indian Hospitality