India is probably the world’s most diverse country. Its history can be traced back to 2500 BC. Throughout these years, India has seen people of various races settle on her lands and form their own identity, lifestyle, and traditions. This ancient land is home to hundreds of languages, multiple religions, and rich culture.
India’s cultural diversity and traditions rival any other country in the world. This has made India stand out from the rest of the world with its uniqueness. The way of life observed here is strikingly different and here is a list of such differences which usually amuse and engross any foreigner who visits here.
Indians Love Ethnic Wear
Although a majority of men wear western clothing, you can still see them wearing kurtas, dhotis, sherwanis, and Nehru jackets.
Women still stick to the traditional saree, which is, as they say, six yards of pure elegance and grace. Depending on the occasion, women wear different types of saree ranging from silk to cotton and jute to chiffon. Women also wear Patiala suits, half sarees, and churidars. Even in dressing styles, India exhibits diversity.
The most common attire for women throughout India is Saree.
Paternal Family Structure
Most of the eastern countries follow a collectivist culture but the topmost among them is India. It is one of the few countries which has a joint family structure. In Western cultures, children leave their parents and home when they are entering college. They start earning for themselves and preparing for their future.
However, in India, families stay together. While the son brings his wife to live with his parents, the daughter goes to live with her husband’s family. Interestingly women wear the Sindoor as a symbol of their marriage as well as Chudi and Mangalsutra.
These aspects of Indian culture ensures that there are elders to pass on wisdom and knowledge to the younger ones. Elders guide the family and the bond between grandparents and grandchildren is very special and precious. No one feels left out or abandoned. Throughout their life, they will be loved and cared for.
A Lot of Festivals
It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is, there will always be a festival around the corner! This is one of the best features of India – the festive season never ends. Festivals and special occasions are observed for the many religions, languages, regions and ethnicity.
The lovely aspect of these festivals is that you need to belong to that particular group to celebrate it; they are celebrated throughout the country by everyone. Diwali, Dussehra, Christmas, Ramzan, Holi, Makar Sankranti, Eid, and New Years are the most widely celebrated festivals.
PDA is Indecent
Probably one of the first noticeable differences is this. People in India are not comfortable with any form of public PDA (public display of affection), either platonic or romantic. Opposite sexes must not interact no matter what. This is because Indian culture believes that what goes on between a man and woman is personal and private. Others should not see it.
However, times are changing and in metro cities, a certain extent of PDA is tolerable. Though it might seem strange, it is always polite to respect and follow the etiquette of society.
Touching The Feet Of Elders
Touching the feet of elders is very unique and common in India. In order to receive the blessings of elders or to show them respect, we fall on their feet. Especially during special occasions, we do this to receive their wishes. This is similar to Hindus showing their devotion to the Gods by kneeling and bending on the temple ground. People show similar respect to elders as they are real-life saviors and guides.
Arranged Marriages
While western cultures allow one to choose their own life partners, irrespective of identity, religion, or other constructs, the majority of Indians follow the arranged marriage system. While westerners might find this ridiculous, the system has worked very well to date.
A suitable partner is chosen by the parents and relatives taking into consideration all the required specifications like religion and caste. Through astrology and horoscopes, a suitable match will be found based on compatibility levels.
Very Tasty Food habits
Just like everything else in India, food habits as well, vary across the country. Indian cuisine is extremely diverse and centers around rice and wheat. The spicy gravies, aromatic rice, rich flavored dishes, and delicious sweets are a treat for the taste buds. An interesting feature of South Indian food habits is eating on a banana leaf. A million dishes are served in small portions on the leaf and are a memorable experience.
Conclusion
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the rich diversity of India. As you dig deeper, you can find unique and interesting customs that are followed here which might be exclusive to a particular village, religion or state. Every corner of the country has something different and will continue to surprise you.