Cultural Differences Between India and Russia What Indian Students Should Know

As India and Russia continue to strengthen their bilateral ties in areas such as defense, energy, and trade, it’s important for Indian students studying in Russia to understand and appreciate the cultural differences between the two nations. By doing so, they can have a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience while studying in Russia.

Here are some of the key cultural differences that Indian students should be aware of:

1. Language: While English is widely spoken and understood in India, Russian is the official language of Russia. As such, Indian students should make an effort to learn basic Russian phrases and terms to make their interactions with locals smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Food: Indian cuisine is known for its spices and flavors, whereas Russian cuisine tends to be milder and less spicy. Indian students should be open to trying new foods and appreciate the different culinary traditions of Russia.
3. Religion: India is predominantly Hindu, while Russia is predominantly Christian. Indian students should be respectful of the religious beliefs and practices of Russians, and avoid any actions or behaviors that could be seen as disrespectful.
4. Dress: Indian and Russian styles of dress can be quite different. While Indian clothing tends to be colorful and ornate, Russian clothing is more understated and practical. Indian students should be aware of cultural norms around clothing and dress appropriately for different occasions.
5. Social etiquette: In Russia, it’s customary to shake hands with people when meeting them for the first time, whereas in India, it’s common to greet people with a namaste (folded hands). Russian social interactions may also be more formal and reserved than in India, so Indian students should be aware of these cultural differences and adjust their behavior accordingly.
6. Sense of humor: Humor can be a tricky area when it comes to cultural differences. Indian humor tends to be more lighthearted and playful, while Russian humor can be more sarcastic and dark. Indian students should be mindful of this difference and avoid making jokes that could be seen as offensive or insensitive.
7. Personal space: In India, people may stand or sit close together during conversations, while in Russia, people tend to maintain more personal space. Indian students should be respectful of these cultural differences and adjust their behavior accordingly.
8. Time management: In India, punctuality may not always be a top priority, whereas in Russia, being on time is considered important. Indian students should be aware of this difference and make an effort to be on time for appointments and meetings.
9. Family values: Family is highly valued in both Indian and Russian cultures, but the way in which family is defined and prioritized may differ. Indian students should be respectful of the different family structures and values they may encounter in Russia.

By being aware of these cultural differences and making an effort to understand and appreciate them, Indian students can have a more positive and enriching experience while studying in Russia. It’s important to remember that cultural differences are not good or bad, they’re simply different, and by embracing these differences, we can learn from and appreciate other cultures.