Write 7 pages thesis on the topic Indian culture vs American culture. While Western culture is more verbal in communications, the Asian and Indian culture inclines more on nonverbal communications. It is only when we understand the differences and similarities between the cultures of the two nations. we can better understand why people behave as they normally do. In the below paragraphs, the essay tries to examine the contrasts and similarities.

People respond to colors in different ways and this greatly has to do with the cultural backgrounds they are from. In the American culture, black signifies death and mourning. Worn mainly due to the weather conditions, it also refers to formality and sophistication that reflects in dressing. However in the Indian culture, black signifies mourning, evil influences, and penance. In certain cultures, completely black attires are worn by men for a chosen number of days in the form of penance. White in the US signifies purity and life. However in India, the meanings are contradictory, and white suggests peace, marriage, and mourning all at once. In the Southern part of India, women wear traditional white saris on the day of the wedding. In times of someone’s death, white is also seen to be worn by widows. Blue color refers to trust and stability in American culture while in India it refers to calmness.

Besides individual colors, combinations also have diverse meanings in the two religions. Red, white and blue remind Americans of the native flag and convey patriotism while in India the same patriotism comes through saffron, white and green (colors of the Indian national flag). The colors red and green represent prosperity and marriage in India and refer to Christmas in America. Red and yellow are considered auspicious in India as they represent kumkum2 and turmeric, two ingredients imperative for every Indian wedding. However, in America, colors of red, orange, and yellow signify warmth and thanksgiving.