How do I start a conversation with someone new in Kolkata?

There are neighbourhoods, cafes, book shops, markets, cultural events and casual spaces in Kolkata. Starting a conversation with a stranger in Kolkata is much easier, if you can do it easily, politely and with reference to the surrounding. Ask about food, music, books and a local place, listen and respect privacy.

Start with what's going on

A great way to begin the conversation is to discuss what is happening around us. When waiting in a cafe you can ask whether a particular food is worth a taste. When you go to a bookstore, you may ask what a favorite author is. A sincere question regarding the programme may be a regular conversation at an event.

This method is applicable in numerous places in Kolkata. There are restaurants and cafes on Park Street, and books and student activity on College Street. A number of films, theatre and cultural programmes are also being organised around Rabindra Sadan and Nandan.

Avoid asking excessively long questions. It is not necessary to have an unusual line to attract attention. The other person can be more comfortable with a normal question, as it provides them with an easy answer.

Utilize local topics that encourage easy replies

In Kolkata, the variety of food options, from local to regional, makes it a good topic to discuss. You may ask about a certain cafe's or Bengali cuisine favorite.

Another topic that is realistic is travel. If you are lost in a crowd, then asking where the shortest route is for say to a nearby landmark is a good way to start a conversation. People might know local information about transport around Esplanade or New Market or Sealdah and about local places.

It may be applied to music, films, books, sports and local festivals as well. The topics won't be as personal as in other cities, but Kolkata has a distinct culture and that could be more interesting to talk about.

It comes down to a matter of asking open simple questions. Avoid asking multiple questions in succession, respond to the person's question(s). For instance, ask them about their favourite book if they say so, asking what they liked about it. This will help to make the exchange more of a conversation rather than an interview.

Respect non-verbal cues and personal space

Social skill, not everyone wants to speak. Respect minimal responses, lack of eye contact, averted eyes and/or busy expressions. They may not want to talk for too long, a smile or a simple answer will suffice.

When meeting for the first time don't discuss the person's income, relations, home address etc. Questions about yourself might not seem like the appropriate question, especially if it is your first personal encounter with the person you're meeting.

Another important aspect of communicating with an online individual prior to face-to-face contact is respect. Don't force someone to give their telephone number, pictures, social media information or location. Allow trust to be built up over time.

Allow conversations to grow spontaneously

Great conversations don't have to be an hour long. If it is comfortable, move on to discussing common ground. If it goes quiet, don't try to make a different topic happen.

A typical ending can be as powerful as a solid opening. If you prefer to speak, state that and say goodbye, this will make the conversation respectful. If both parties would like to remain in contact, give each other information if both parties wish to do this.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1. Where and how to engage in conversations with strangers in Kolkata?

A. Begin with something that is familiar to you, something from the world around you, like food, books, music, travel, or something in your community. The first question should be easy.

Q2. In which place can I find a place to meet somebody for a discussion in Kolkata?

A. busy cafe, cultural facilities, bookstores or public places can provide comfortable environments. Select a comfortable place for both.

Q3. Which are the topics to be avoided on meeting a new acquaintance in Kolkata?

A. Do not ask any questions of personal nature, relationships, private address or money until there is enough trust.

Q4. How can I tell whether a person wishes to go on speaking?

A. See if the other person has engaged by returning a reply and naturally raises some questions. They may be requesting "space" for themselves by responding with brief answers and frequent interruptions or by looking away.

Q5. After talking to somebody, do you have to give your contact details?

A. Only when both individuals are comfortable. Exchange a number or social media account should be done on a voluntary basis, not forced.