The language of greetings

Published in the Independent on 15 January 2016.

The language of greetings

Glasgow Central MP Alison Thewliss has suggested that handshakes should be replaced with first bumps to avoid the spread of germs (14 January). The origins of handshakes was to test the strength of the opponent. So maybe it is time for a change.

We might consider the Indian way which is to put your palms together in greeting. It is body language that sends a message of peace and friendship.

Nitin Mehta

Croydon, Greater London