From Business Suits to Curry Sweats: A One-Day Whirlwind in India

The Mission: Serious Business

Dan and Brian’s arrival at the first factory was met with a bustling energy: workers moving with purpose, an organized assembly line humming with productivity, and a clear dedication to crafting quality products. They inspected every corner, chatted with workers, and made notes. For a moment, they even convinced themselves this would be a typical business day. Spoiler: it was not.

The Tug of War for Dinner Guests

Here’s where things got interesting. No sooner had Dan and Brian begun winding up their visit then they found themselves in the midst of a tug-of-war—between two factory-owning families, both dead set on hosting them for dinner. Why the intense competition? Well, it turns out that in India, a dinner invitation is more sacred than any handshake. And with Diwali—the country’s biggest festival—just around the corner, hosting guests wasn’t just dinner; it was destiny.

With a sly smile, the owners of the second factory convinced Dan and Brian to stop by for “a quick round of appetizers.” It sounded harmless. But Dan and Brian were about to discover that in India, “appetizers” is just a code word for “buckle up.”

Appetizers and a Four-Story Family Welcome

Dan and Brian walked into the second factory (owned by four brothers) owner’s home (also owned by four brothers…) expecting a modest spread. Instead, they were greeted by a four-story house buzzing with 17 relatives, one dog, and three generations—all under one roof. Each floor housed a branch of the family tree, complete with kids, grandparents, and in-laws. Dan and Brian, two people who barely knew their neighbors back home, found themselves swept up in the warmth of a family that treated them like long-lost relatives.

Then came the food. Servers started bringing out trays piled high with samosas, kebabs, paneer, chutneys—the works. Every time they thought it was over, another plate appeared, like magic. Dan and Brian were in culinary heaven…and also, slightly panicked. They hadn’t even made it to their actual dinner reservation yet.

As they dipped and scooped their way through mountains of appetizers, Dan and Brian contemplated ways to politely refuse yet another round of “just one more bite.” By hour two, they were stuffed, sweaty, and seriously considering a nap.

Surprise! There’s Another Feast Waiting

Just as they were beginning to consider rolling themselves back to their hotel, they remembered: the night wasn’t over. The first factory owners were waiting for them with…you guessed it, more food and drinks.

They thanked the family, bid goodbye to the 17 relatives (plus the dog), and headed straight to the next house, where a similar scene awaited them. This time, they stepped into a five-story house packed with relatives eager to share their food, stories, and apparently limitless hospitality.

By now, Dan and Brian were full, but no one seemed to care. Platters appeared, featuring even more delicacies, and the family insisted they try everything. So they dug in, laughing, sharing stories, and marveling at how much energy this family had for both cooking and eating. They were completely immersed in an experience where they weren’t just business partners—they were honored guests, seated around the table like family.

Diwali Lights and Curry Sweats: The Takeaway

By the end of the night, they were practically carrying their bloated stomachs back to their hotel. What started as a straightforward business trip had become an initiation into a culture where food is love, family is life, and “dinner” is more like an endurance sport.

Adding to the magic, Diwali—the Festival of Lights—was just around the corner, and the homes they visited were decked out in vibrant, festive decor. In Southern India, Diwali decorations are a feast for the eyes: homes are outlined in delicate oil lamps (diyas) and strings of glowing fairy lights, casting a warm glow that spills onto the streets. Every corner seemed to sparkle with joy, making it clear that Diwali isn’t just a celebration; it’s an invitation to bring light and warmth into every heart and home.

The next day, as they recounted their adventure, Dan and Brian couldn’t help but laugh at how they’d gone from a global sourcing trip to Diwali crash course in a matter of hours. They’d gained more than business contacts; they’d gained an understanding of a culture that prizes connection over contracts and generosity over profit. Their evening in India turned business partners into friends and clients into family.

So, did they secure new products? Absolutely. But more than that, Dan and Brian returned with a lesson: in India, a simple dinner can turn into the adventure of a lifetime—just remember to leave room for seconds…or thirds…or seventeenths.