If someone next to you is eating from a plate with their hands - it enriches our culture - a discussion

If someone next to you is eating from a plate with their hands - it enriches our culture - a discussion 0

In recent years, the topic of immigration in Latvia has become painful. Some support the lives of newcomers in Latvia, while others are sharply opposed. In any case, it has long been the case that not only Latvians live in Latvia — just like in other countries around the world.

Citizens of third countries, about whom there is the greatest concern in society, have their own culture. We in Latvia are accustomed to our culture, but when faced with something radically different, we can become confused or even frightened.

Writer and publicist Liana, who actively advocates for the preservation of Latvian values, shared her observation on social media platform "X." She wrote: "In our time, don’t be surprised if someone next to you in a bar is eating from a plate with their hands. 🙂 This is our cultural enrichment!"

The attached image shows a man — presumably a citizen of one of the third countries — eating in a public place with his hands from a plate.

What did the commentators respond?

"Well, this is trivial! Anyone who has seen China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, or India, where no one washes their hands and everything is as unsanitary as possible, wouldn’t worry about such trifles!"

"It's a bit surprising... He takes food with his left hand! He is in a place without a head covering! A normal establishment owner would quickly remove such a person!

Even where 'eating with hands' is customary, left-handed people are isolated from public meals."

"Indians do it this way. It’s a pity they don’t want to integrate and accept our traditions."

"By the way, many young Latvians have also been eating with their hands in recent years. Nothing special."

"And where is the boundary? We (Latvians) also eat a lot with our hands. How much can you eat with your hands before you are photographed? 🙂 Those who eat burgers with a knife and fork are considered strange everywhere. :D"

It is worth noting that in India, it is customary to eat with hands, using only the right hand, as the left is considered unclean and is used for hygienic procedures.

Mūsdienās vairs nebrīnieties, ja krogā netālu no jums kāds ēd no šķīvja ar roku -:) tā ir mūsu kulturālā bagātināšanās! pic.twitter.com/wrgOK1sVwh
— Liāna Langa 🇱🇻 🇺🇦 🇮🇱 (@liana_langa) February 10, 2026