Re: is this a typical desi mentality?
hmm not sure, convenience stores always ask that.
I think it has to do more with smaller stores/shops as compared to lets say walmart.
agreed...
i have been asked that by goras at convenience stores and gas stations... if they are short of change and it happens to be a weekend or they have some other reason due to which they can't go to the bank they'll ask you such a question to save their change
another reason is that most people don't like to carry change in their pocket and so if they have a dollar or two that would make their change a bill instead of a bunch of coins, they'll give it to the clerk... i know i do that. maybe they get use to it after a while and are trying to make it convenient for you.