Norwegian chess grandmaster, Magnus Øen Carlsen was caught off guard at the Tata Steel Chess India Festival 2024 in Kolkata when a female awardee touched his feet before receiving her trophy. Bristy Mukherjee, an awardee who won the All-India Women's Rapid event with a perfect 7/7 score, left Carlsen both surprised and smiling, as she showed him the deepest respect in keeping with India's traditional customs.

Ever since, the gesture has been the talk in foreign countries amongst their people. However, in places like India and Bangladesh, a gesture like this is quite a typical and common method of showing deep respect to someone we admire and look up to.  

While joining two hands together and uttering 'Namaste' is a respectful way of greeting and showing respect to one another amongst the Indians, Bangladeshis are seen saying 'Assalamu alaikum'. Similarly, touching someone's feet, especially the elderly, is just another tradition that people rightfully follow or maintain. Offering food—often insisting on "force feeding" guests—is also another appreciated tradition, symbolising hospitality and respect. 

But if observed closely, these greetings are always exchanged between people of all cultures, traditions, and religions across our region, and in most cases, we don't beg to differ. If an Indian can extend his respect to a Bengali, a Bengali much rather do the same. Similarly, if a European pays respect with a simple 'Good Evening', it shouldn't come off as a huge surprise when an Indian responds to it in her language.

Respect can take many forms, especially when it is deeply rooted in one's religion, traditions, and cultural background. It becomes complicated to imagine why someone's way of showing gratitude should change only because it is extended toward people of foreign lands.

For us, showing respect and making others feel valued is a source of joy. In return, we simply hope for the same. So, is it really such a big deal if an Indian person was seen touching a foreigner's feet? 

The chess grandmaster may have been taken aback at the moment, but that gesture of appreciation will most definitely be something memorable, one he will cherish, mention to others, and value. Over time, he may even come to realise and feel accustomed that it is simply another way of showing respect.