Uncle, Aunty, Bhaiya, Didi

Indians address older strangers, even shopkeepers, as “Uncle” and “Aunty.” A man up to about fifteen years older is bhai or bhaiya, elder brother. A woman is didi, elder sister. A younger person may be called beta, son.

Tone matters, however. “Aunty” can also sound like a remark about a woman’s age.

understand-culture
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.