What Does Indian Headshake Means?

If this is first time visit to India, there are a couple of things you should know that is beyond ticketing, destinations, eateries or accommodation. Indian headshake might seem unique for some. Also referred to as the bobble or wobble, this gesture has been an invariable form of amazement and confusion amongst many foreigners. This is particularly a concern for the ones who completely fail to understand the Indian culture and for the first time travellers.

The Indian head wobble is a non-verbal mode of communication. This is a quick gesture and depending on how the head and chin is moved, it could have several meanings. The complications arise when the gesture is made in silent. Any foreigner would be left clueless and possibly insulted had they never known about the signals before.

However, as you understand the significance of the Indian headshake and its various forms, you will be amazed to find how infectious this gesture might become. Anyone who has spent a substantial quantity in the country have wedged themselves instinctively in Indian headshake. Folks who does not have the habit of headshake will also automatically respond in similar gesture. Interestingly, they it most of the time without even realizing!

So, what do you need to know about the nod suggesting "yes", "no" and "maybe"? This guide might serve helpful for understanding basics of Indian headshake.

Different Ways of Indian Wobble

• The Indian head wobble to say ‘yes’ or ‘thank you’ or ‘alright’

When a local slightly ducks his chin and dips his head quickly about three or four times, it means he agrees with you. This can also be doubled with saying ‘yes’. The same head nod also suggests that the person was attentive to whatever your said. Confusing? Well, that’s the beauty of this place!

Again, the same gesture can be used to show gratitude. When this nod is accompanied with a smile, it can mean all the three things such as yes, thank you and a sense of gratitude altogether. It might seem a might overwhelming initially but if you observe them, this is a very simple approach towards body language and can be easily understood after a couple of interactions.

To sum it, this is a non-verbal correspondence for the common Hindi words such as ‘achha’ which mean many things (most commonly ‘I understand’ or ‘good’).

• Indian headshake to say ‘okay’

When the head is tilted slightly from left to the upward right direction, it generally means okay. For instance, if you are in an auto-rickshaw (Tuk-Tuk) and you talk to the auto driver while he is driving, he might simply nod his head in response and not communicate verbally. This silent head nod might mean okay to yes, in an affirmative tone.

• Saying no with Indian headshake

When someone moves his head slightly from left to right (with the neck working as the axle), it means he is saying no. You are definitely going to face this headshake way more than you expect, especially with the local transport like taxis and auto-rickshaws! In fact, the local transports are infamous for rejecting passengers. So, by the end of your trip, you might also get used to this gesture!

• Saying ‘hi’ or ‘hey’

One of the other Indian headshakes to understand is when they raise their chin and tilt the head backwards in a single thrust motion, while raising the eyebrows simultaneously. We know, theoretically, it sounds complicated but is almost an instinctive gesture to say ‘hello’ or acknowledge someone’s presence. The sign is accompanied with a smile and cam also continue for a verbal greeting.

The other uses of headshake in India

• Nods are used to say "thank you", but it is not commonly said to strangers, in fact, it is not a common thing you will hear in general here.

• To acknowledge someone's presence, there can be a head nod as discussed earlier. But, it can also work if you want to greet someone who is far away, so cannot shout - the nod can be a courteous sign.

• For displaying benevolence or kindness, a polite headshake is required. For instance, if you want someone to sit down next to you, put your chin down with a smile signing towards the seat.

The locals who cannot speak in English relies mostly on the head shakes to express whatever they need to express.

Be prepared for disparities

Sometimes, the Indian headshake can be also used deliberately to create confusion. Sometimes, when you have to say "no" directly, it can be considered impolite. Instead, you can find giving a vague wobble that will make the entire thing sound less offensive.

The wobble can also be used to express soothing which is yet undecided or when you are not very enthusiastic. For instance, if you are weary about going to a particular place or don’t want to eat something, a smaller nod can express your disinterest without being too harsh on the host / speaker.

Different regions have separate meanings for the head shake

Akin to there are vivid custom, language and tradition at various parts of the country, there is difference in how folks wobble. The southern India has the prevalent culture of headshaking such as with the people in Kerala or Tamil Nadu. This is comparatively less found in the northern side of the country.

That being said, it is one very common body language that integrates the countrymen. Understanding the different types of body language can be interesting for various cultures and with Indian headshake, it can be said without trouble that actions speak louder than words.