I have served/ stayed in all most all states including southern states. Though, Indian society is ruled by five factors, such as religionsm, casteism, areaism, goondaism & selfishness. religion is more dominent in J & k, Punjab, nagaland, goa etc, caste is in UP, Bihar, Haryana, Rajesthan, Delhi, Tamilnadu, urisa west bangal etc, goondaism is in Maharastra, AP, Bihar, UP, WB,ETC, AREAISM IN mAHARASTRA, gUJARAT (LATELY STARTED), J&K , HP, AS FAR AS SELFISHNESS IS CONCERN, ALL ARE TRYING THEIR BEST BUT KERALA IS LEADER. i DONT THINK THERE IS RACISM IN SOUTH, INFACT FEELINGS OF RACISM ARE MORE STRONG IN PANDITS. I must appreciate a very correct observation of mr Ojus. Execpt some places which are spoiled by brainless politicians, rest of India is ok if you are ok. Individual behaviour counts much in such cases. OFCOURSE, i HAVE NOT SEEN PERSONALLY, BUT AS HEARED from MY CHILDERN, all incidences of Australia are not of racism & all Indians are also not clear of blame. Precautions as I feel, a) KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THAT NATION, THEIR PEOPLE, THEIR TRADITIONS, SYSTEMS, LOCAL LAWS, REPORTING SYSTEMS,, B) mix like water in their social, cultural & legal system, donot keep more cash/valuables on person or at residance, c) be visilent always, d) donot start any arguement & it is batter to avoide the trouble, e) Hire residential accomodation in batter areas away from druggies. f) In the presence of locals, talk only in english, donot jock with them, g) have real unity in defending yourselves, avoide exccess drinking at public places, h) donot show your fear even if you have, j) display highest standard of self discipline, specially in dealing with women, playing music at night or any other such activity, k) be more careful from friday evening till sunday midnight.l) avoide going to lonely places, m) if possible & law permits keep some weapon, which can be used for self defence, n) coop with fellow Indians & finally have faith in self & the almighty.