Marathi survival kit

In context: 5 scenes to get by

Cultural notes

1. "Namaskar", with palms joined at chest level, is the standard respectful greeting in Maharashtra. Suitable for elders, strangers, hotel and restaurant staff. For friends and peers, "Kay kaay" (what's up) is more casual.
2. In Maharashtra, kinship terms are often used instead of first names: "kaka" (uncle), "mavshi" (aunt), "dada" (older brother), "tai" (older sister). Calling a taxi driver "kaka" is appreciated and shows respect.
3. Mumbai is a multilingual megacity: Marathi, Hindi, English and Gujarati coexist. Marathi remains the state's official language and knowing it is much appreciated, even though Hindi is enough in most tourist situations.
4. Traditional eating is done with the right hand only, especially Maharashtrian thalis. The left hand is considered impure in the context of meals. Pao bhaji and vada pav, iconic street foods, are eaten with the fingers.
5. The Ganesh Chaturthi festival (August-September) is the major event of Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai and Pune. Streets are decorated and statues of the god Ganesha are displayed everywhere. If you travel at this time, expect an intense festive atmosphere.
6. Before entering a Hindu temple (Siddhivinayak in Mumbai, Shree Kshetra Mahalaxmi, or the UNESCO-listed Ellora and Ajanta caves), remove your shoes and cover your shoulders. Photos are sometimes forbidden in the sanctuary.
7. Maharashtrian cuisine is varied: non-vegetarian in coastal areas (Konkan fish curries), vegetarian and milder in Pune. Piri-piri (chili) is present but less strong than in Andhra cuisine.
8. Mumbai is known for its intensity: crowds, traffic, suburban train at rush hour. Keep valuables visible, avoid pulling out large amounts of cash and use Uber/Ola taxis rather than unregistered rickshaws in the evening.