Cultures And Customs In India

Before you set out on your journey to any other country, you better get aware about the cultures and customs there. This will help you bring necessary changes in your behaviour and life style so that you do not violate the normal code of conducts there by treading over acceptable cultural values. Here is some information about cultures and customs in India – one of the most ancient civilizations on earth. Though list is diverse every attempt is made to capture the most interesting ones.

Language: National language Hindi is spoken in very wide area’ almost all parts of the country but regional languages and life styles change with the territories. Because of higher level of education in developed cities and towns such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Kolkata and other metros, English is also in use as second language there.

Culture: India is said to be a land of unity in diversity. The country has rich history and heritage of religions, dance, music and architecture. Contrary to western individualism culture, India has communion culture. People love to live in society, group, family and are often interweaved in mutual affairs. Majority of Indian population respects spiritual and religious values and have faith in God. While majority is Hindu, some minorities such as Muslims, Christians, Sikhs and other communities are also an integral part of the Indian population. Political territories are not based on religion and people live freely where they wish to.

Politics: India is a democratic country. Leaders and local representatives are elected through voting system. People live here under the rules and regulations set by local and national governments. Jurisdiction, Police, Municipal other public departments are functioning as they do in many other countries.

Customs: Namaste is a common gesture which Indians greet each other with. This includes three small steps a) join both the hands, b) bow head a little forward and c) say ‘Namaste’. The other person will also respond in same manner. This is way to start conversation with strangers or greeting others. Wearing short clothes exposing parts of the body excessively is considered immoral and may attract unwanted ogling and attention from strangers.

Festivals: Most of the rituals and customs performed in India are continue from the ancient time and have their own social significance. However people respect each others’ religions and participate in rituals harmoniously. With a few historical exceptions there are no major communal riots noted in recent years. By virtue of having variant cultures and customs there are many festivals celebrated in India through out the year. However the important Hindu festivals are Diwali and Holi, Muslims celebrate Ramadan Eid, Christians celebrate Christmas and Sikh community celebrate Baisakhi with great gusto and glee, among various other festivals. These are very much part of culture and customs in India

People: People in India are friendly and helping nature. Men wear paint and shirts while majority of married women wear Sarees in different styles, while young girls wear Salwar Kurti or Top and Skirts. Some other traditional clothing styles can be observed during cultural events or internal parts of the country though.

Cuisine: As India is the land of diversity all types of cuisine are available here. There are all sizes of hotels which offer only veg food while there are many who offer veg, non-veg and continental dishes together. Different food as you cross one state to other in India is a part of culture and customs in India.

Markets: India is a fast developing country and all the major international brand products are available in the markets here. Currency exchange facility is available at some banks and vendors in major tourist spots. Malls and super markets available in developed cities but majority of consumers deal with local shops and stores.

Weather: A normal weather cycle persists in India. Monsoon starts in July and continues till September, it remains cool from October to February and hot from March to June. The best time to visit India can be between September to November when there is not much rain, neither it is too cool nor is it too hot.

Transportation: All Indian cities are well connected with trains, road and flights are also available to and fro all major cities. For local transportation taxies are available while in smaller towns cycle rickshaws are also a common medium of transportation.

Indian government is promoting tourism in the country and organizes many exciting events and festivals to attract visitors through out the year. Whether you want to give your journey a spiritual touch, a historical excursion or just a joyful spree, there is everything you will get here. Those who seek eternal liberation can visit spiritual cities Hardwar, Rishikesh, Mathura, Vrindavan, those who want to view the elegance of its architecture can visit Aagra, Fatehpur Sikri, Chittor and many other places, likewise those who want to enjoy the holidays within natural abundance can opt for many of the places in Himachal Pradesh such as Jammu & Kashmir, Shimla, Ooti, Dharmshala, and many more hill stations there, and those who are fond of beaches and water sports activities can start with South India. Information about regional culture and custom in India can be found from respective tourism departments and their websites.

Picture- boskizzi