2. Indian Culture - Unique Customs and Traditions
Art & Culture
Indian Culture and traditions are something which has now become renowned all
across the world. We all refer to India and its culture as something very diverse
and unique. But seldom do we give a thought to why things are done in certain
specific ways. Indian Culture is full of several unique customs and traditions, which
outsiders might find really intriguing. Most of these originate from the Ancient
Indian scriptures and texts, which have dictated the way of life in India for
thousands of years.
Here are some interesting Indian customs and traditions:
1. The Namaste
The namaste is one of the most popular Indian
customs and isn't really just restricted to the
Indian territory anymore.
3. 2. Always a Festive Season
India also sees a large number of festivals, mainly because of the prevalence
of diverse religions and groups. The Muslims celebrate Eid, the Christians
have Christmas, good Friday and so on, the Sikhs have Baisakhi (harvesting
of crop), and the birthdays of their Gurus and the Hindus have Diwali, Holi,
Makar Sakranti, the Jains have Mahavir Jayanti, the Buddhists celebrate the
Buddha's birthday on Buddha Poornima, holidays in our book, of course.
4. 3.JointFamilies
Also, in India, there exists the concept of a joint family,
wherein the entire family (parents, wife, children and in
some cases relatives) all live together. This is mostly
because of the cohesive nature of the Indian society,
and also reportedly helps in handling pressure and
stress.
5. 4. Fasting
Fasting is an integral part of hindu culture. Fasts or upvas are a way to
represent your sincerity and resolve, or express your gratitude to the gods
and goddesses. People throughout the country observe fasts during various
religious occasions. Some people also observe fast on different days of a
week in favour of a particular god or goddess associated with that particular
day. It is widely believed . the rules and regulations of a fast are in
accordance with the particular occasion. The origin of fast probably comes
from the vedic ritual of kindling the sacrificial fire for sacrifice purposes.
Since the word 'upvas' has been used for denoting both fasts and kindling
sacrificial fire.
6. 5. Arranged Marriage System
The concept of arranged marriage in India traces its origin to as early
as the Vedic times. For royal families, a ceremony known as the
'Shyambazar' would be arranged for the bride. Suitable matches from
all over the kingdom were invited to either compete in some
competition to win over the bride, or the bride would herself choose
her ideal husband. Even today, the concept of arranged marriage
remains a favourite among Indians and is an integral part of 'Indian
Traditions'.
7. 6.Indian Ethnic Wear
Indian women are often seen sporting 'saris'. The sari is a single
cloth and needs no stitching; it is easy to make and comfortable to
wear, and also adheres to religious etiquette. It initially started out as
a Hindu tradition but has very elegantly spread across all religions.
The same applies to the more functional 'Kurta-Pyjama', and the
ceremonial wear of 'Sherwani' for Indian men of all religions.
8. 7. Atithi Devo Bhavah
In India, the saying 'Atithi Devo Bhavah' is also integral. It means 'the
guest is equivalent to god'. It is a Sanskrit verse taken from the
Hindu scriptures which later became a part of the 'Code of conduct
for Hindu society since the guest has always been of supreme
importance in the culture of India.
9. 8. Indian Dances
India is a land of 'unity in diversity', and our dances are no different.
Different forms of dance(classified as folk or classical) find origin from
different parts of the country, and they are a way of representation of the
particular culture from which they originate. Eight classical dances, which
are classified as Indian classical dances and find a mention in the Hindu
Sanskrit text 'Natyashashtra', (a text of performing arts) are:
•Bharatnatyam from Tamil Nadu
•Kathakali from Kerela
•Kathak from North, West and Central India
•Mohiniyattam from Kerela
•Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh
•Oddisi from Odhisa
•Manipuri from Manipur
•Sattriya from Assam
10. 9. Indian Food
Indian food and cuisine not only form an integral part of Indian culture but
are also one of the key factors of India's popularity worldwide. The style
of cooking varies from region to region, though unanimously, Indian food
has a major reputation for its extensive use of spices and herbs. Just like
dances, religious practices, language and clothes, you will also find a
wide variety of food throughout the country. Almost every region is
known for a signature dish or ingredient form a central part of Mughlai,
Bengali, North Indian and Punjabi cuisine.
