Never let your lips touch food or drink that has to be shared with others. Take off your shoes in private homes if the other people are doing so. Use your left hand to remove your shoes. Never point the soles of your feet at anyone. The Hindu way of greeting is to fold the hands and tilt the head forward.
Most Indian women prefer nor to shake hands.
Women should avoid tight or revealing clothing in public. Legs and shoulders should be covered. Men may wish to avoid wearing shorts in public, as this is a sign of low caste. Swearing is taken seriously, so try not to use strong language. In restaurants it is customary to leave a tip of 10 percent.