What to do, we are like that only

In talking with Indian friends, you might have found yourself bemused by phrases like "Do the needful" or "Please revert". And if you've really delved deep into the cultural quirks, you've probably heard, "What to do, we are like that only", often accompanied by a shrug and a smile. While these sayings may tickle the funny bone of non-Indians, they're actually little packages of profound wisdom wrapped in humor and practicality. Let's unwrap these packages together.

What to do, we are like that only!

Source: Source: Arto Suraj / Unsplash

First up is the classic "Do the needful". It's the Swiss Army knife of Indian expressions, ready to slice through red tape and bureaucratic banter. When someone drops this line, they're not just passing the buck—they're entrusting you with the noble task of cutting to the chase. It's a call to action, a battle cry for the proactive, and a gentle nudge towards self-sufficiency. It's like saying, "I believe in you, now go and do all that is required!"

Moving on to the ever-so-formal "Please revert". It's not a plea to turn back time or a confusing tech instruction but rather a courteous way of saying, "Hey, let's keep the conversation going!" This phrase is all about the art of engagement and the mutual ping-pong of thoughts and ideas. It's a reminder that good communication is a two-player game, and you're expected to hit the ball back. It's like a social contract that says, "I've put in my two cents, now it's your turn."

And then there's the philosophical shrug of "What to do, we are like that only". This one is the verbal equivalent of a resigned head shake and a knowing smile. It's acceptance with a side of humor, an acknowledgment that we're all a mixed bag of quirks and idiosyncrasies. This saying is a cozy blanket of tolerance, embracing the chaos of human imperfection. It's a love letter to our flaws and a way of saying, "We're all a bit odd, and that's perfectly okay."

These charming phrases aren't just the spice of Indian conversations; they're lessons in pragmatism, communication, and acceptance. They encourage us to act efficiently, interact respectfully, and live authentically. They remind us that while life may not come with an instruction manual, it does come with a colorful collection of cultural proverbs. In a globalized world where cultural nuances can be both a source of enrichment and misunderstanding, these Indian phrases offer a window into an ethos that prioritizes adaptability, communication, and acceptance.

So, next time you're faced with a daunting task, remember to "do the needful"—tackle it head-on with the confidence of a Bollywood hero facing the villain. When you receive a message, don't just leave it on 'read'; "please revert" with the enthusiasm of a cricket commentator during a final match. And when life's peculiarities have you puzzled, or when encountering the unfamiliar or the imperfect — in others and within oneself — just say, "What to do, we are like that only", and carry on with the grace of a dancer gliding amidst the hustle and bustle of a lively mela (street festival).

By infusing these sayings into our daily lives, we not only get a chuckle but also embrace a little piece of Indian wisdom that's as flavorful and diverse as the people and the country itself. So, embrace the quirks, talk it out, and, when in doubt, do the needful—with a smile.