In Chennai, alcohol is often seen in two very different lights. For some, it’s part of weekend hangouts, TASMAC gatherings, or corporate get-togethers. For others, it’s avoided due to family values, religion, or personal choice.

But here’s the challenge — when you say “I don’t drink”, it can lead to endless comments:

• “Just one peg, kanna, it won’t hurt.”

• “Come on, be a sport — everyone’s drinking.”

• “You’re in IT, da… drinking is compulsory!”

• “At least try at the kalyanam reception, otherwise people will think you’re too strict.”

If this sounds familiar, don’t worry. With the right drink refusal skills, you can protect your decision — without being seen as rude or “different.”

Why Saying “No” Feels Hard in Chennai

• Wedding Pressure: In South Indian receptions, alcohol is often offered discreetly in friends’ circles, and refusing can feel like rejecting friendship.

• Corporate Parties: In IT corridors (OMR, Guindy, Teynampet), drinking is often part of team bonding.

• Family Circles: Relatives may tease or pressure you, especially at festivals and family functions.

• Peer Teasing: Friends in Marina, Besant Nagar, or pubs at Nungambakkam may push you with “da, just one beer.”

Practical Refusal Skills (Chennai Style)

1. Health Excuse — Chennai Favourite

Tamilians respect health reasons a lot.

• “Acidity problem, doctor strictly asked me not to drink.”

• “Sugar levels are high, can’t risk it.”

• “Training for the Chennai Marathon, avoiding alcohol.”

In most circles, health = unquestionable.

2. Driving Card

With Chennai traffic, this works every time:

• “Bro, I have to drive back from Velachery to Anna Nagar, if I drink I’ll get stuck in checking.”

• “Police are strict near Kathipara, not worth the risk.”

No one argues against the RTO or traffic police!

3. Temple / Cultural Reason

Very strong in South Indian families.

• “Tomorrow early morning, I have to go to Kapaleeshwarar temple.”

• “Navaratri fasting is on, no alcohol for me.”

• “In our family, we don’t touch drinks — parents will be upset.”

In Chennai, tradition earns respect.

4. Substitute Strategy

At weddings or office events, always keep a glass in your hand — juice, rose milk, mocktail, or even soda with lime.

• People usually don’t check what’s inside.

• Having something in hand avoids repeated offers.

5. Blame Tomorrow’s Responsibility

Chennai folks understand workload:

• “Morning OP at hospital, can’t drink.”

• “Office client call with US team at 7 am.”

• “Kids’ school annual day, I have to be fresh.”

6. Humour in Local Flavour

Light teasing works wonders:

• “If I drink, you’ll have to drop me from Adyar to Tambaram!”

• “Last time I had, I started singing SPB songs loudly… better avoid!”

Humour = face saved, pressure diffused.

7. The Calm Repeat

If pushed, stick to the same line:

• “No thanks, I don’t drink.”

• Don’t switch stories — repetition shows confidence.

8. Exit Politely

If things get too pushy, simply step out:

• Go for a quick phone call.

• Shift focus to food counter (biryani, bajji, filter coffee — safe zones!).

• Engage another group in conversation.

Final Word

In Chennai, saying no to alcohol isn’t just about self-control. It’s about balancing friendship, family respect, and personal values. The key is to be confident, polite, and consistent. Remember — a firm “no” today protects your health tomorrow.

👉 If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol pressure or dependence, help is available.

📍 Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi)
Consultant Psychiatrist
Apollo Clinic, Velachery, Chennai
📞 85951 55808