Are there any special things I should do, or avoid doing, beyond basic common sense and politeness? Thankyou!
2007-02-06 01:59:19 · 8 answers · asked by aeschylus 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Etiquette
I should add that they live in India, and this is the first time I will have been there. Although they were initially concerned that he was marrying a girl who was not Indian, I think they have accepted it so far. Im very keen to make a good impression and will do whatever I can to make them like me, so our lives are easy!
2007-02-06 03:05:52 · update #1
First of all, I gather your fiance did not get any opposition (since you used the term "fiance" and not "boyfriend"). If that's the case, they are actually ready to receive you in the family.
Whether they are from India or not, dress conservatively, but you don't have to cover your head and all that unless he thinks so. Ask them about their son when he was school and such and praise him in front of them. Most Indian mothers love to hear praises of their son's brilliance and daughter's cooking skills. If your fiance does housework or cooking, don't mention it! At least until you get to know them better.
Don't talk about future plans if they don't involve babies - they will most definitely not want to hear a career-oriented woman. If they press you for an answer about your career vs grandkids, just imply that family is more important to you ("family" could be just you and hubby).
Help in the kitchen when the mother goes in. They love that. Ask about her cooking and ask her about her son's favorite recipes. If you cook some Indian food, talk about how you had to learn to use the spices... make it funny. They will appreciate self-deprecating humor more than any show of being humble.
Good luck!
2007-02-06 02:56:36 · answer #1 · answered by Developing Minds 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most of Indian parents living in India will be mortified by the fact that their son has chosen a western wife. So, they will, to start with, will have a negative view on you, so you will have to work much harder than you think.
They will expect you to be polite, soft-spoken, respectful, not to laugh loudly, eat less, always put makeup & cover head, insist on sleeping alone, never show any body parts other than hands, don't talk about any past relationship - rather maintain that you are virgin … All-in-all if you are a typical western girl just pretend that you are NOT!!
You might be tempted to talk about marriage, but remember in India, brides family takes care of all proceedings/ costs & if thats not the case with you, rather not talk about it.
I am married to an American girl, but we have never gone to India as I don’t want my wife to feel what I just described. I hope its different for you!!
All the best.
2007-02-06 02:37:53 · answer #2 · answered by Subbarao 1 · 0⤊ 1⤋
I think that you should be polite. Open doors for your finace and mother - in - law. I think that it would be just fine to ask questions based on where they are from and things like that. It makes them think you are a kind and considerate person. I work for people who are not afraid to talk about their culture and I asked questions until I was blue in the face. But if you don't think that they are liking you, then be quiet and talk only when spoken to.
2007-02-06 02:11:37 · answer #3 · answered by De 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Well, Indian culture is very family oriented and respect for elders is pretty much expected from everyone. When you meet his parents, show your utmost respect by touching their feet (that's how they say their salutations). Be loving and understanding..they might have difficulty understanding your language and vica versa so just have patience and keep a smile on your face.
Good Luck
2007-02-06 09:40:42 · answer #4 · answered by Luv Peace 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Be Polite, don't talk to much, just ask them how they are, ask them about your fiance when she was growing up,but let them do all the talking, if you get into a silent awkwardness just bring up wedding ideas or plans
2007-02-06 02:03:43 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
they are people like you and i. i am sure if you are polite and respectful, they will reciprocate. I bet you find that you get on great with them and will wonder what you were worried about.
2007-02-06 02:09:04 · answer #6 · answered by hairyegg25 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Follow the lead of your fiance. He knows what's expected of you. I think he'll tell you to calm down and be yourself.
2007-02-06 03:56:27 · answer #7 · answered by poutine 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good luck!!!
2007-02-06 02:08:01 · answer #8 · answered by CRYSTAL 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋