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Cultural Etiquette
Cultural Dos and Taboos
1. There are very rigid roles placed upon women and men, which affect every aspect of everyday life in Bangladesh. Visitors must respect these roles and never put a Bangladeshi in a position where he or she uncomfortable.
2. Traditional Muslims and Hindus will not shake hands with persons of the opposite sex.
3. Do not be surprised if a man does not introduce his wife to you. When in this situation, do not attempt to introduce yourself to the wife. A Muslim man may become offended if a visiting man asks questions about his wife or daughter.
4. Flirting is offensive in Bangladeshi society. A man should not to flirt with woman, as this could become a source of shame for her and could affect her in a way an individual from a Western society would not understand. Always be modest and respectful to the opposite sex.
5. Traditional Muslim and Hindu women will not say the name of their husband. They will instead refer to him as "son of so-and so" or "father of so-and-so."
6. In business meetings, one should expect some time devoted to conversation on non-business subjects. Goodwill and social rapport must be established between the parties involved. The business discussion should begin once the tea is served.
7. Never show the bottom of your foot or shoe; the bottom of the foot is considered unclean and Muslims find it offensive to look at.
8. Remove shoes before entering a house or Mosque.
9. The left hand is considered unclean. Never eat with your left hand. Never give or take anything with your left hand.
10. Dress is Bangladesh conforms to strictures of modesty. Both Muslims and Hindus in Bangladeshi society tend to be culturally conservative and as such, regardless of stylistic choices, the most important consideration regarding appropriate clothing should be the matter of modesty. Women should take care to cover the length of their legs and their upper arms, while men have a bit more freedom about their clothing choices. Covering one's head when one is visiting religious areas is also important.
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