Ways of Greeting a guest in India

India, because of her diversity, rich cultural heritage and colourful tradition has always been a favoured destination for the travel buffs. India since time immemorial has followed a set of customs that are performed while welcoming a guest. Many a times it is the uniqueness and colours of Indian customs that draws tourists time and again as these customs reflect the true image of India and its society.

Immortal Indian Customs

Namaskar
Namaste or Namaskar is a known form of salutation in India. Palms of both the hands when joined together forms the perfect namaskar pose. It is used for welcoming as well as bidding a guest farewell. However, other forms of greeting in India are: 'Sat-sri-akal' by the Sikhs, 'Adaab' by Muslims and ' Vannakkam' by Tamilians.

Tilak ( kumkum)
Tilak is also part of greeting the guests where a mark of thick red vermilion is applied on the forehead of the visitors. In this thick paste one can also find a fine mixture of turmeric, camphor, curd and sandalwood. This custom can also be used at both the times of welcoming and bidding the guests farewell. It is applied as a blessing from God.

Aarti
Aarti in India is not only done to show religious zeal but also to welcome guests. It is a holy way to seek blessings from God for all the loved ones. The Aarti ceremony is performed by lighting five lamps called niranjanas. The niranjanas are filled with ghee and arranged in a small tray. Once the maps are lit, the tray is rotated in a cirular direction in front of the person to be welcomed. However the basic purpose behind performing aarti is to bid farewell to the evil effects.

Garlanding
Garlands are a means to show respect and honour to deities as well as guests. Flowers are tied together and are a popular means of welcoming guests.

These unique cum special Indian customs makes India " wannabe" on the Globe.