The Indian head wobble (or bobble) is the source of much confusion and wonderment amongst foreigners, especially the first time one is confronted with it. It looks like a cross between a nod and shake, but does it mean yes? Or does it mean no? Or even maybe?
The confusion is made even worse when the wobble is silent. Without speech to give any clues as to the message it’s supposed to convey, it’s easy to feel bewildered
In essence, the head wobble is the non-verbal equivalent of that multipurpose and omnipresent Hindi word accha. It can mean anything from "good" to "I understand".
The most common use of the head wobble is to respond in the affirmative. For example, if you ask someone if the train is going to your destination and they wobble their head in reply, it means "yes".
The head wobble is also often used as a sign that what's being said is understood. For example, if you tell someone you'll meet them at a certain place at 5 o'clock and they wobble their head at you, it means that it's fine and they'll be there.
Other situations where we're likely to encounter a head wobble include:
As an alternative to "thank you", which is not commonly said in India.
To acknowledge someone's presence. This can be particularly useful if you see someone you know across the street but can't shout out to them.
As a gesture of kindness or benevolence, for example, if someone sits down next to you on the train.
Without a doubt however, the head wobble is the one universal gesture that unites all Indians. Cultural and language barriers miraculously dissolve with a wobble. It's definitely a case of "actions speak louder than words".
A fast and continuous head wobble means that the person really understands. The more vigorous the wobbling, the more understanding there is.
A quick wobble from side to side means "yes" or "alright".
A slow soft wobble, sometimes accompanied by a smile, is a sign of friendship. Source: About.com
Click on this: Indian Head Bobble explained
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