What’s the funniest misunderstanding you’ve ever been part of?

Many moons ago, I saw the most amazing sari. Pink, sparkly, perfect for the little girl in England, I had in mind.

I was in Chennai, living my best life.

Often, when  I was shopping I had my lovely friend Sister Mary with me. She was from  Bangalore. A beautiful place, I had heard. But I don’t recall her being  with me that day.

I’d set my sights on this gorgeous piece and asked the young man its price.

Whatever he said, I responded ‘ Blimey, that’s a bit steep, innit?’.

Bless him, his face was a picture. In fact, as a race, these people are stunning. Their hands, their bone structure,their eyes. Incredible.

He looked at me, bewildered but desperately trying to understand what I had said to him.

I’m a Brummie, I often/mostly converse in colloquialisms.  It’s possible other folk in the UK may not have understood what I said.

‘Blimey- = Blind me/ blasphemous. ‘ That’s a bit steep’  High/ that’s a lot. ‘ innit’= isn’t it?.

I will never forget the look on his face when I uttered those words without a second thought.

But as I write this it, it occurs to me I was so comfortable, in India back then, I didn’t feel the need to regulate my speech. No exaggerated pronunciation, no raising of my voice, no issues.

I was home.

Thank you, Chennai.Thank you to my employers, colleagues, and friends. I had the time of my life x