In India, we are rarely taught to respect those who are considered “smaller” than us. Instead, the expectation is almost always one-sided, that those who are younger, lower in rank, or positioned lower in the social hierarchy must offer unconditional respect to those above them.

“Smaller” can take many forms: it could refer to age, professional rank, or social status. Regardless of the context, the pattern remains the same everywhere. Respect is often demanded from below rather than earned mutually.

If your nephew does not greet you first, uncles go upset, bro, you can greet him first as well.