Culture & Holidays in India

Languages

India is a multilingual workplace environment, with Hindi and English designated as India’s official languages. India also has multiple regional languages. English is commonly spoken in corporate settings, and Hindi is widely spoken in government and business sectors, particularly in North and Central India. Workplaces often operate in a bilingual or multilingual manner, depending on the industry and region.

In customer service, language use depends on the clientele. English and Hindi are common for domestic and international customer support, while many companies also hire speakers of Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, Bengali, and Marathi to cater to regional customers.

Workplace norms and professional etiquette

Employers in India must be aware of workplace norms, business communication styles, and professional etiquette to ensure smooth operations and maintain positive employee relations. India's work culture blends hierarchical structures, respect for authority, and relationship-building while also embracing modern corporate values in global businesses.

Workplace hierarchy and authority

• Indian workplaces, especially in traditional industries and government sectors, tend to be hierarchical, with senior management making key decisions.

• Employees generally show deference to senior colleagues and managers, using formal greetings and respectful language.

• Decision-making can be top-down, but modern startups and multinational corporations have begun encouraging collaborative approaches.

• Communication is often formal and polite, especially in written correspondence such as emails.

• Networking and informal discussions (over tea breaks or lunch) help in professional growth and collaboration.

• Employees may hesitate to say "no" directly, preferring diplomatic phrases like "I will try" or "Let me check."

• Follow-up is crucial in Indian business culture, as decisions and approvals may take time.

Email and phone etiquette

• Business emails should be formal, polite, and structured, starting with a greeting and ending with a professional sign-off.

• In phone calls, a courteous greeting is expected, and small talk before discussing business is common.

• Employees often use WhatsApp for quick work-related communication, though formal matters are handled via email.

Meeting etiquette and punctuality

• Punctuality is valued though meetings may start a few minutes late, especially in informal settings.
• Business meetings often begin with small talk before transitioning into formal discussions. Handshakes are common in corporate environments, but some professionals may prefer a traditional "Namaste" greeting.

Professional dress code

• Corporate offices and multinational corporations expect formal or business casual attire (suits, shirts, trousers, formal dresses).
• In traditional industries, especially family-owned businesses, employees may wear ethnic attire on special occasions.
• Start-ups and tech companies often have a relaxed dress code, favoring smart casuals.

National holidays

India observes three national holidays, and states have additional public holidays.

• Jan. 26: Republic Day

• Aug. 15: Independence Day

• Oct. 2: Birthday of Mahatma Gandhi

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