Have you ever come across that awkward situation when you are sitting next to a person for quite some but not able to utter a single word? Yes, we all have gone through that phase of silence where time seems to stand still. And that is why conversation starters are necessary.
Whether you are waiting at the airport, on a train journey or perhaps that classic awkward situation when your friend leaves you to talk to someone else in a party- we often get stuck with someone we don’t know or barely know.
Hence, on the occasion of New Conversations Day on 12th July, Discover East brings to you some food items that are all time conversation starters.
1. Let’s Grab a Cup, Maybe ?
Tea and Coffee have been the classic and evergreen ice – breakers of all times. Whether you want to ask someone out for a date or you are meeting a business client for the first time, the cuppa is the best option to bring out the best in you. As the advertising goes, a lot can happen over a cup of coffee.
2. Time-pass!!
Indian train journeys are incomplete without ‘moongphali’ or peanuts. If you hear a hawker shouting ‘Time-pass’ from a different berth in a train, then understand that the favorite ‘Indian train conversation starter’ is on its way. The way it’s eaten is oddly satisfactory.
Unroll the paper cone and display the peanuts. Then unfold the tiny salt paper pouches. (You are not a true Indian if you don’t ask for more of these salt pouches). Crack the shell with your thumb or teeth, pop the peanut into your mouth, lick the salt with your finger. Now tell me- is it possible for the person sitting near you to ignore this sight?
3. Tamul : the Taste of Assam.
Kuwai in Meghalaya or Tamul in Assam is one of the most popular and traditional mouth fresheners of this region. It is the areca nut that is wrapped in a betel leaf and consumed. So, if you are in Assam, you can easily start a conversation with Tamul.
4. Gum would be Perfection.
Chewing gum or mints can be a very ‘fresh’ way to crack up a conversation with someone. If you are bored waiting for a bus or in a bank and you want someone to talk you can start by either asking or offering a gum or mint. Even if the other person doesn’t need it or if he/she doesn’t have any to give you, the move for a conversation has already been made. So enjoy your chat but do not swallow the gum like Chandler!
5. Kuch Meetha ho Jaaye.
Chocolates can a be delicious way to break the ice between people. If you are meeting someone for the first time or if you want to make up for something you can give chocolates. Just as the chocolate melts in the mouth, the ice or the anger are sure to melt. Ice-cream may just work fine as well!
Also do not miss out on this article about useful Ice breakers for starting a new conversation.
(Feature image source: Guwahati Foodie)
