What the World can Imbibe from Indian Culture
A rich 4500-year-old cultural history, 28 states, 8 union territories, and 1.3 billion people - make for the unique and mesmerizing land that India is today. It is not just a country but an amalgamation of culture, diversity, and festivities. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquillity, there’s something for everyone choosing to travel or live in India. While this young, thriving country draws people to a plethora of sights, sounds, smells, and tastes, it also offers invaluable things that the world can learn and imbibe.
There are surprises hidden in every nook and corner, it is impossible to escape the charm of India and its culture.
- Anonymous
Here are some of the things that the rest of the world can take away from India’s old yet ever-evolving culture.
The Multicultural Spirit
Be it language, food, clothing, dance, music, or art - each state has its own unique cultural identity. People from all walks of life peacefully come together to organise various festivals with ease and display their celebratory spirit. This true display of unity in diversity in every aspect is no easy feat, making it a thing worth appreciating and learning from.
Deep-rooted Philosophies
One look at our history and know that India has always accepted different cultures and ideologies. This is also reflected in our humble greeting 'Namaste' - where 'Nama' means 'bow' and 'te' means 'to you' in Sanskrit, honouring the sentiment that all humans are created equal. Following the philosophy of 'Atithi Devo Bhava', which translates to 'the guest is God', Indians go to all possible lengths to make their guests feel welcome, comfortable, and most importantly, well-fed. Indian culture is also big on practising gratitude and being content. Adding such a holistic approach to life can help one gain endless benefits.
Ancient Wellness Practices
India has offered the world alternate, organic disciplines of spiritual mindfulness and medicine system, namely Yoga and Ayurveda, respectively. Yoga, meaning 'unite' in Sanskrit, helps one connect their consciousness to the divine through asanas (body postures), breathing exercises, and meditation. On the other hand, the old medical practice of Ayurveda involves herbal treatments for ailments, rejuvenating massages, healthy diet plans, yogic chanting, and breathing - to bring balance to an individual’s life. Next time you hear someone raving about the benefits of yoga, or using coconut oil for healthier hair, or sipping turmeric latte to boost immunity, know that these practices for physical, mental, and spiritual nourishment have been common in India for centuries.
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Economic Way of Living
Savings come naturally to Indians, so does invest for a safe and comfortable future. They are aces in finding quality products and getting the best value-for-money deals. International students and travellers can definitely benefit from inculcating this habit and controlling expenses to enjoy a good standard of living. After all, who doesn’t love discounts?
Importance of Education
From launching satellites and spacecraft into space to being a global hub of innovation, technology, and manufacturing, India takes pride in being an emerging economy. To keep the momentum of economic growth going, India gives great importance to pursuing a quality education. According to the World Culture Score for Reading, Indians are the world’s biggest bookworms, reading 10.7 hours a week on average. This fact proves that Indians have for good appetite for knowledge, a habit that many can take a cue from.
Language Learning Skills
The 22 official languages and 19500+ dialects spoken in India is proof that the country is linguistically rich. Most Indians grow up speaking multiple languages. Learning different languages can sharpen thinking and memory skills, increase awareness of other cultures, and improve your job prospects in the future too. So waste no more time and pick up a language to learn soon!
The Art of Jugaad
Officially accepted as a word in the Oxford dictionary, the term ‘Jugaad’ means a flexible approach to solving a problem with limited resources. No matter the problem, there’s always a creative and ingenious hack available. Recognised throughout the world, this art should be mastered by one and all!
Gadget-free Ways to Play and Unwind
When in India, these Indian games are a must-try! Indians find more excitement in indoor games like Chess, Carrom, Snake and Ladders, Ludo, and outdoor games like Kho-Kho, Kabaddi, Gilli Danda, and Gully cricket.
Spirit of Charity
Philanthropy has been ingrained in the Indian culture and lifestyle. According to the Indian Central Bureau of Investigation, India has one non-profit for every 600 people, which continues to grow. Indian people are dedicated to giving back to their local communities through volunteering, fundraising, or donating. If the rest of the world adopts this habit, there would be less hunger and poverty, more literacy, and empowerment.
With surprises hidden in every nook and corner, it’s impossible to escape the magnetism of India and its culture. This fascinating land will compel you to get out of your comfort zone and change your views on life, but it will leave you with many invaluable experiences and learnings. No matter how many times you visit India, there’s always something more to explore. And while it may take ages to discover every facet, this article can be a start.
