As a typical example of Dutch-Indian similarity Pranay mentions tolerance. He thinks it is an important value in Holland, to see the differences and live with it. He sees it as the keyword of Indian society. 'In every step of our life we are taught to be tolerant. In a country with 18 different official languages and at least as many subcultures, tolerance is a necessary precondition. Without it, India could not survive.'
Pranay argues that one will meet the outside differences in people anywhere you go. 'For one, there is the language. Initially during lunch I had no idea what my colleagues were talking about. And on the open market, you have no clue what everybody wants to sell you.' Yet, the Indian sees a good side. 'Those differences may make you feel awkward, but that is an incentive to learn. As soon as you feel comfortable in a culture you will stop learning.'
The most important thing Pranay learnt was that logic plays an even bigger role in Dutch society than tolerance. His initial Indian working habit was more relaxed. But he was confronted with the fact that everything in Holland is fixed and logically organised. 'Logic is the keyword to Dutch society, ' he argues, 'Even in radio commercials on Sky Radio I hear it very often - Logisch!' And also in the national eating habits he recognises the logic. 'People here seem to eat not so much for the taste, but more to get a certain amount of carbohydrates, proteins and fat. Indian eating habits are far from that. It is more an exercise in creativity with flavours. It takes a lot of time, which is not really logical, is it?'
Pranay Darda
