Namaste

A beautiful Indian culture "Namaste" meaning "Greetings". This tradition is commonly followed by all Indians residing in the Indian subcontinent. And ofcourse, all Indians residing globally. Its a gesture of respect by the host to the guest, especially to the elders.

This culture is a common practice in every social, polotical and cultural gatherings. It is in the non-contact form by slightly bowing your head down to welcome the person standing opposite to you. You bow with your palms touched together. Its a mark of respect by honouring your guests.

No matter how high or in low profile you are. But when in a gathering, this gesture becomes applicable to all. In most of the marriage ceremeony we can see in the entrance the relatives of the boy/girl, welcome the guests by this gesture with a broad smile. The same happens in a cultural fest. Where the invitees and guest of honour are received with this gesture. The "namaste" gesture with a smile makes us comfortable for the proceedings. In politics, we can see the politicians travelling in an open vehicle with their hands joined together🙏 and asking the public for votes. I think you got an idea of one of our culture.

It is a must in some of the official business to follow this gesture. The Airhostess in Indian Airlines follow this gesture by standing near the door of the aircraft. A welcome sign on board to the passengers. The same is applicable in sone of the jewellery show rooms and reputed silk centres here. Young and beautiful ladies are assigned for this job.

India is a diversified state with different people, culture, traditions etc. Each state has its own language. As such the word 'Namaste" is told by different names in other states. As Hindi is the official lamguage "Namaste ' has its priorities. In the state of Tamil Nadu we call this gesture as "Vanakkam", in the state of Kerala we call it "Namaskaram". In the state of Andhra Pradesh it is mentioned as "Namaskaramulu". All these mentioned states are in South India. This many I know from my school days. We have around 28 states with their own language and culture. So each state has their on language, depicting this gesture.

Hope I did not confuse you with our culture. Have a peaceful weekend. Let Almighty bless all of you.

The images including lead image are googled.