Introduction: Cultural beliefs, traditional practices and social factors are some of the major determinants of health and disease. So is true for chronic diseases like Diabetes Mellitus requiring long term management. Objective: To understanding the broader socio-cultural context as important background information for effective care of Diabetics. Methods: We used __ampersandsignlsquo;Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue__ampersandsignrsquo; interviews of 25 diabetic persons were conducted. Results: It was found that perception about Diabetes is influenced by traditions, customs and ethos. In Diabetes sign/s don__ampersandsignrsquo;t manifest early and therefore it is usually ignored till it interferes with day to day living of individuals. Following the dietary advice was the most difficult part of diabetes care due to cultural barriers. Additionally, diabetes is so common in society is not considered to be of sufficient priority by the family. Barriers to care-seeking are health illiteracy and cost of care. Diabetics are used to taking complementary treatment along with conventional treatment, which sometimes proves to be hazardous. Language plays a key role in effective diabetes care. Due to socio-cultural factors, females often face problems in receiving appropriate care. Cultural assessment is recommended at initial assessment for identification of cultural issues in care, planning for culturally relevant and acceptable intervention and evaluation. Conclusion: Cultural values, beliefs, customs, the family pattern may be used as clues for planning diabetes care. The cultural assessment needs to focus on elements relevant to the presenting problem, necessary intervention, and participatory evaluation.