I really liked it when the handshake was the only option. I just can't fathom this custom of social kissing that's catching on in India. Should I kiss absolute strangers? Cheekto-cheek, or mwah mwah in mid-air ? One kiss or two? Right cheek first, or left?

The only sound rule for the etiquette of social kissing is that there is none. In France, for example, anything between one and four kisses can be acceptable depending on who you are, who you're kissing and how well the two of you know each other. There are so many variables that even the French are confused. So invent your own rules. How about air-kissing for people you have met more than once, a peck for people you've had conversation with and handshakes for everyone else? No lip-to-lip please, we're Indian. Right cheek first, since that just seems right. A woman's make-up is a delicate affair so don't spoil it.