“ Handshakes aren ’ t that common in Nepali culture . Nepalese people are quite reserved when it comes to showing intimacy through physical touch .”
Namaste , Not Handshakes
Handshakes aren ’ t that common in Nepali culture . Nepali people are quite reserved when it comes to showing intimacy through physical touch . You may notice close friends with their arms placed around each other ’ s shoulder or even hugging each other in some cases . However , you ’ ll rarely see people of opposite sex having such physical contact with each other . Even married couples are not encouraged to show public displays of affection since it ’ s considered immoral to show such behavior .
A Family that Eats Together Stays Together
When it comes to serving food , Nepali families usually dine together with the female members serving food on the table . Even during feasts and celebrations , guests can be seen sitting in lines with their legs crossed and foods being served to them by the hosts in a leaf plate . This traditional practice of feasting is known as Sukubhwe or Bhoj , in general . Having said that , buffets have become a standard practice for many Nepalese people residing in the city area . But it is still an uncommon practice in many Nepalese households .
Food Speaks Louder than Emotions
Nepalese people aren ’ t that expressive when it comes to showing their emotions and dissatisfaction . The culture of showing respect towards their elders often compels people to remain silent during discussions between elders . They also often avoid eye contact during conversations since direct eye contact towards their seniors is considered disrespectful . Hence , they often use food as a means to show their love language . So , the next time you ’ re offered food by any Nepali family , consider that as an appreciation for your presence in their household .
Other Superstitions to be Mindful of in Nepal
Nepal , as a society , values social hierarchies a lot and has its social fabric structured around the caste system . Despite losing its essence to modernity , you may still witness such practices in many parts of rural Nepal . Superstitious beliefs are another key aspect of the Nepali culture even when it comes to hospitable practices . Here are some interesting stereotypical beliefs still practiced in the Nepali culture ;
• Whenever you eat something with your hand or your hand comes in contact with your mouth in any instance , Nepali people use the term Jutho which implies ritual impurity . You ’ re not allowed to touch anything in the kitchen or the prayer room without washing your hands . Yes , Nepali people have a dedicated space to pray in their house . This belief in Jutho is so strong that even when Nepalese people drink water , they make sure that they don ’ t touch the
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