A Dutch woman living in India has sparked a discussion online after questioning the way India’s honking culture is viewed by people from other countries. Her comments came after some social media users pointed to frequent honking as an example while arguing that India is a “backward” country.Rather than seeing the habit only as noise or poor road behaviour, she said there is a cultural context behind the way horns are used on Indian roads. Her explanation has since received support from several internet users who shared their own experiences.
Why she defended India’s honking culture
Ivana spoke about the issue in an Instagram video after seeing comments on her earlier post about India being called a backward country.She said, “I just posted a video that questions India being called a backward country, and some comments mockingly pointed out the honking in traffic to prove that India is indeed a backward country, which fascinates me as these commenters seem to be completely unaware of the significant cultural context of honking in India.”She argued that the practice needs to be understood in the context in which it is used.
‘It’s a practical tool for communication’
According to Ivana, drivers in India and much of Southeast Asia may use their horns for several reasons.“Unlike in Western countries where honking often signals frustration or anger, here it’s a practical tool for communication,” she said.She explained that drivers may honk to announce their presence, alert other road users, indicate that they are overtaking or warn vehicles near blind turns. She also mentioned that some people use the horn while greeting fellow motorists.“It’s seen as a courtesy to the other road users to announce your presence and give a heads up,” she added.
‘Honking is not just noise’
Ivana summed up her view by describing honking as something that carries meaning between people using the road.She said, “honking is not just noise, it is a language of the road.”She further explained, “It’s a way to say, hey, I’m here in bustling, unpredictable traffic where mirrors aren’t always relied upon. This honking culture keeps the chaotic flow surprisingly organised. So, is it really a sign of being backward or just a different way to manage the road?”
Her question about Western standards
The discussion also led Ivana to question whether cultural habits should be judged by comparing them with practices followed elsewhere.“Should we measure all cultural practices against the backdrop of Western culture, or is there room for more flavours of cultural practices in the world?” she asked.
Internet reacts
Several users agreed with her explanation.One person wrote, “Spot on! You’ve perfectly captured the nuance here.”Another recalled learning to ride a scooty and said, “This is so true because when I was learning how to ride a scooty for the first time, my dad taught me to ALWAYS honk when I approach a junction so that others know there’s a vehicle approaching. And also to honk if you’re planning to take over. So yeah, it’s not rude at all,”A commenter from the US wrote, “Great points! From the US and just came back from visiting several cities in India…was on the road a lot and it was clear that honking serves so many purposes. Wouldn’t it be great if Westerners could understand that we don’t set the standard for all things in the world.”An Indian user shared, “I’m Indian, and honking has literally saved my life like three times. Without it, I would’ve been gone a long time ago.”Another person said, “I’m in the US and honking is definitely considered rude, confusing drivers and an annoyance, but in India, the drivers are taught to use the horn for road safety and as a precaution.”Disclaimer: This article is based on user-generated content. The Times of India has not independently verified the claims made in the original post.Thumb image: Instagram
