Britons taught to bow and not to kiss in Indian etiquette lessons

New classes are being launched to teach UK business people about Indian etiquette after a series of "mini-disasters" involving hapless executives.

The UK India Business Council will run the first of a series of classes today offering tips on how to bow graciously, smile politely and refrain from kissing women.

The lessons follow reports of business deals collapsing due to overly tactile sales people, patronising chief executives and British delegates offending their Indian counterparts by standing with their hands on their hips and calling Indian managers by their first names.



Around 30 executives and entrepreneurs will attend the first briefing at the UKIBC headquarters in Millbank, London. The organisation, which receives £1m of government funding annually, is to set up offices in Mumbai and Delhi.

UKIBC have drawn up a list of dos and don'ts which include meeting potential business partners with a smile and the respectful greeting "namaste", making small talk and bowing slightly with palms together.

The organisation advises against shaking hands with women unless offered, and they should never be kissed in greeting or goodbye. The classes will also alert entrepreneurs to the fact that Indians "are not always punctual - so be patient and flexible".