Men greeting Men – A simple verbal greeting of “Salam Aleikum” tends to be most common. The appropriate response is “wa alaikum salam”. Handshakes are common as well, more so in business and formal settings. Handshakes tend to be on the light/limp side.
Women greeting Women – A simple verbal greeting of “Salam Aleikum” tends to be most common. The appropriate response is “wa alaikum salam”. Good friends and family may engage in a light hug as well. Handshakes are not as common.
Greetings between Men and Women – A simple verbal greeting of “Salam Aleikum” tends to be most common. The appropriate response is “wa alaikum salam”. There is little to no contact between genders. In business and formal situations it is best for men to wait to see of the woman extends her hand first, if at all.
Note: Greetings with members of the Hindu population generally begin with the palms pressed together at around chest level and saying, “Namaste”.
When greeting an elder, many younger people will touch the feet of the elder, with the right hand, and then touch the hand to their lips and forehead as a sign of respect. Foreigners are not expected to do this, but should when meeting those of extremely high status like a religious leader or guru.
|