In essence, the head wobble is the non-verbal equivalent of that multipurpose and omnipresent Hindi word achha.
It can mean anything from “good " to "I understand".
The most common use of the head wobble is to respond in the affirmative.
For example, if you ask someone if the train is going to your destination and they wobble their head in reply, it means "yes".
The head wobble is also often used as a sign that what's being said is understood. For example, if you tell someone you'll meet them at a certain place at 5 o'clock and they wobble their head at you, it means that it's fine and they'll be there.
Other situations where you're likely to encounter a head wobble include:
- As an alternative to "Thank you” which is not commonly said in India.
- To acknowledge someone's presence. This can be particularly useful if you see someone you know across the street but can't shout out to them.
- As a gesture of kindness or benevolence, for example, if someone sits down next to you on the train.