Leave Your "Run and Gun" Mentality at the Airport.
If you are coming from the UK or US, you are used to a "multitasking" culture. You expect an AC to also help move a case. You expect a Gaffer to wire a plug.
In India, that is not how it works.
The Hierarchy of Specialization
Indian production is built on rigid specialization and union rules.
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A Gaffer directs the light.
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A Lightboy sets the light.
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A Spotboy brings the tea.
You will likely have a crew size 30% larger than you are used to. Do not fight this.
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It’s Hot: In 40°C heat with 90% humidity, you need more bodies to move gear without exhaustion.
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It’s Efficient: Once you accept the system, it moves incredibly fast. A "human chain" of crew can move a base camp up a mountain faster than five multitasking westerners.
The "Head Wobble" Decoder
You ask a crew member: "Is there fuel in the genny?" They wobble their head side-to-side. Is that a yes? Is it a no?
The Translation: It usually means "I hear you," or "I am working on it." It rarely means "Yes, it is done." My Rule: Never assume. Always ask for a verbal confirmation. "Is there fuel in the genny? Yes or No?"
"Indian Stretchable Time"
Traffic in Mumbai or Delhi is not a variable; it is a force of nature. Google Maps is an optimist; I am a realist. If Google says 20 minutes, budget for 60.