A lot more thought goes into the art of eating with one’s hands than I thought. Two key techniques to
master are the use of the thumb and right hand only. Avoid having curry juices run down your elbow as well. It’s
considered a bit tacky, if not unpleasant. Makes good sense to me.
INDAX provides a
comprehensive guide to India with great articles on cultural tips, notes on how to use
the loo and this piece on the right way to eating with one’s hands. (You may wish to read about eating
with your hands before the toilet piece.) Though there are several places in India where you needn’t
worry about shoveling food in your mouth with your hand, I’m almost positive you wouldn’t want to offend
anyone who doesn’t offer eating utensils.