“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” is a film about British pensioners who decide to move to Indian for a better life; each character has his/her own reason for going.  Once there, some see all the differences in architecture, lifestyle, food and colors as fascinating and exquisite. On the other hand a couple folks see nothing positive; they complain that it smells, it is noisy and the food is strange.  Most movie goers will just enjoy the excellent cast which includes Dame Judy Dench and Maggie Smith in this charming film. However, for those interested in cultural nuances, the film is a treasure.

In the film one of the characters dies and his friend decides a traditional India ritual should be followed.  He is cremated on a fire that is lit at dawn and burns all day; then his ashes are spread in a peace place.  More subtle were the colors worn by the mourners, whites and yellows.  White is customarily worn for funeral in some countries including India. 

In Subtle Differences, Big Faux Pas, one section highlights traditions related to the beginning and end of life.  The death of a family member is a particularly difficult time for an individual.  Being able to comfort and support them is appreciated.  This is not the time for a Faux Pas. 

What are the customs and traditions in your culture?

“Shuto Nabo Barsho” means ‘a very happy New Year’ but it is not said on January 1^st but rather April 14^th. April 14^th is just another spring day for many people but for many of the residents of Bangladesh and Western India it is the first day of the Bengali calendar, New Year’s Day.  The celebration includes:  putting on your best clothes, visiting family and friends as well as eating traditional dishes.  Thoroughly cleaning or even painting their dwelling is another custom practiced as preparations are made for a new year. 

In the section ‘Do the Numbers Add Up?’ in Subtle Differences, Big Faux Pas  you are reminded that not everyone uses the Gregorian calendar , writes date in the same format or even considers this year, 2012.  According to the Bengali calendar the year is 1419.

Have you ever had the opportunity to attend a tradition Bengali celebration?  Share your experience.

Book Release - Yes

Welcome all! The book is out.  If you've already read it, I would relish your feed back.  If not and reached this blog, we I presume you, your family, you work, or perhaps you are a expanding mega-business into new markets abroad --- You should want to know the Subtle Differences; avoid the Big FAUX PAS!  Don't make the mistake that hurts your child(ren) in a new country or make the Mega-Business FAUX PAS the failed in a new country; that otherwise would have succeeded, had they simply did some homework, learning local cultural differences, and used specialist Adviser (consultant, or teacher)

Very Best,
Elizabeth

WOW, the book is out!  Of course I want it to be success, but the ultimate gratification will come when someone sends me a message; "Will done, the book was priceless"

Elizabeth