टिप रख लो

You say this while handing over cash. Or when you leave change on the table. You can also say it after paying a digital bill. Just look at the person and smile. Say टिप रख लो clearly. If you want to be extra polite, add जी at the end. It works perfectly in cafes and taxis.

Use it at a local dhaba. Use it when a delivery rider brings your pizza. It is great for small services. Use it when the service was quick. Use it when the person was helpful. It feels warm and appreciative. In India, tipping is common but not always mandatory. Saying this makes the transaction feel more personal.

Do not use it in very high-end fine dining. There, you usually just leave the folder. Do not use it if a service charge is already included. That would be double tipping! Avoid saying it if the person is much older than you. In that case, use the more respectful टिप रख लीजिए. Never shout it from across the room. It should be a quiet, direct interaction.

Tipping in India is called 'baksheesh' in some contexts. However, टिप is the most common word now. It is a sign of 'shagun' or good luck for the worker. In big cities, 10% is standard. In small towns, even 20-50 rupees is appreciated. It shows you recognize their hard work. It builds a good relationship with your regular delivery person.

You might hear चेंज रख लो (keep the change). Another one is बाकी आप रख लो (you keep the rest). If you are feeling very formal, use यह आपके लिए है (this is for you). Some people just say रखिए (please keep). But टिप रख लो is the most popular urban version. It is modern, easy, and everyone understands it immediately.