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Top 6 Welcome Rituals From Around the World

Welcome Rituals customs provide a stunning illustration of the diversity and depth of world civilizations. These customs provide a friendly introduction to the distinctive practices of each society, ranging from ornate ceremonies to straightforward gestures. We’ll take you on a journey to discover some of the most intriguing and meaningful welcome customs from throughout the globe with this guide. Every ritual, be it the Japanese tea ceremony, the Maori haka in New Zealand, or the Indian garlanding custom, embodies a profound sense of hospitality and cultural pride. Join us as we celebrate the global language of welcome and learn the tales behind these fascinating rituals.

Welcome Rituals From Around the World

1. India’s Royal Welcoming Ceremony

Indians have lived by the proverb “Atithi Devo bhava” for generations, which translates to “the guest is equivalent to god.” Not one Indian hospitality custom is cosier or friendlier than the welcome ceremony.

Expect to be greeted with ritual items when you enter a heritage hotel or palace: a lamp to light the way (a throwback to an era before electricity), a garland of fresh flowers to symbolise goodwill, and a tilak made of vermillion and turmeric painted on your forehead.

You don’t need to be a member of the royal family to take pleasure in this welcoming custom in India, despite its name. This ritual was once only performed by the most esteemed members of society, but it is still widely used today.

2. The Australian Aboriginal “Welcome to Country”

Indigenous cultures in Australia have a long-standing tradition of politely greeting guests. For generations, the “Welcome to Country” ceremony served as the accepted etiquette for non-Native individuals seeking safe passage across Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander territory.

Currently, the Welcome to Country tradition gives guests a chance to respect Aboriginal culture and lifestyles. It usually starts a conference or function, and it can include anything from a speech to singing or dancing.

In Australia, another welcome custom that non-natives might follow is the “Acknowledgment of Country,” which is appropriate while gathering on Aboriginal land.

3. Fragrant Omani Coffee and Incense

Another nation that values hospitality highly is Oman. If you enjoy coffee, you’ll be happy to learn that a typical Omani greeting includes enjoying a freshly prepared cup!

Arabic coffee, also called Qahwa in the local vernacular, is usually provided to visitors in Omani houses and is frequently flavoured with cardamom, cloves, and saffron. Its taste and aroma will make you feel welcome right away!

Along with your coffee, you might receive some delectable snacks like dates, almonds, and locally baked pastries. In exchange, it’s customary in many parts of the nation to give your hosts a gift of incense—historically, frankincense—shortly before you depart.

4. The Fijian Sevusevu Ceremony

You might wish to become familiar with the sevusevu ritual in Fiji if the island nation’s picturesque beaches are beckoning you. One of the many important cultural practices is the long-standing welcome custom, in which visitors give presents to the chieftain (or leader) of a community in return for permission to enter their territory and get to know their people.

Sevusevu ceremonies are not usually held in urban areas, but if you’re travelling off the beaten road to one of the island’s tranquil villages, you might be able to attend one. You will need to choose a gift or token to accept beforehand. Most markets have kava root, which is a popular choice.

It is customary for you to ask to see the chief at the sevusevu ceremony.

5. New Zealand’s Maori Hongi

Does New Zealand feature on your wish list right now? It is regarded as one of the most well-known welcoming customs in the world, in addition to its breathtaking scenery and relaxed way of life! For many years, the Maori people have followed a symbolic ceremony known as the hongi. In essence, it shows you rubbing or touching noses with people, either during a festive ceremony or when you first greet them.

The ultimate expression of respect and proof that you have been fully accepted by a community is being invited to participate in Hongi. The act itself is sacred in Maori culture and comes from a local myth about how women were created—it is said that they were given life when the god Tāne breathed air.

6. The Maasai “Jumping Dance”

You might get to witness a very special welcoming custom if your next major trip brings you to the plains of Kenya! The nation’s Maasai Mara tribes are renowned for their warmth and vibrant welcome customs, and they also happen to be the site of one of the largest wildlife migrations on Earth.

Up to 12 warriors from a single tribe engage in a dynamic dance known as the Adamu, which goes by the moniker “the jumping dance.” With their movements, the warriors narrate a story. When it’s almost over, the group gets in a circle and competes to see who can leap the highest. In addition, visitors can become a part of the group and test their height against the Maasai.