Do not linger too long at a table with goods you really want. The shopkeeper will see how badly you desire them, and he will raise the price when you finally ask how much it is. Note that no items have tagged prices.
Set in your mind a price you are willing to pay for the item before you ask how much it costs. If you are not prepared with an amount you are willing to spend, you may give into your temptations and pay too much for an item.
Keep all cash in your pockets until both parties have agreed upon the final price. If you show the shopkeeper you possess more money than you offer, he will not be inclined to give you a discount.
Men in Chennai respect other men rather than women, which are often viewed as less valuable in society. If you are a woman accompanied by a man, allow the man to do the bargaining for you. Mutual respect by the shopkeeper helps when you offer a lower price. If you are a woman doing the bargaining, show respect for the Indian men at all times. Do not make facial gestures that suggest you are humiliating him.
Walk away from the first booth you found with your desired item. Many of the handicraft shops carry the same inventory. Bargain in the same manner with other shopkeepers to see if the price being offered by the first shopkeeper is reasonable or on par. This also keeps you from making a hasty purchase, as you have time to review the price and develop a bargaining strategy in your head before returning.
