Etiquette of Indian dining

The etiquette of Indian dining and socializing varies with the region in India. Most Indians wash their hands thoroughly prior to dining, then eat with their hands, with the use of minimal cutlery (practice followed in some parts of India, in other parts cutlery use is common). This practice is historic and premised on the cultural premise that eating is a sensory activity, and touch is part of the experience along with the taste, aroma of the food, and its presentation such as on a thali, or on a large plate made from washed banana leaf (used in south), or stitched and washed siali (used in the north) leaves. Traditionally, the fingers are also used to feel the temperature of the food to one's taste and to combine flavors.