Two days ago, I was accused by a class teacher for not following ‘Indian culture’. This got me thinking about what exactly ‘Indian culture’ was.
In a foul mood, I asked myself if Indian culture was killing widowed women (sati), child marriage and female infanticide. Could it also be marriages breaking up because the bride’s family could not give the groom’s side the car they wanted or the spacious 4 bed-room apartment in an elite area, costing close to thirty lakhs or more? Is it Indian culture to be subdued and not speak up against atrocities? Is it Indian culture to stand by and watch a woman and a child being abused and beaten up? Is it Indian culture to throw out family members who have an illness, who are aged or who express a different opinion? Is it acceptable to kill a couple because they are going out against their families’ wishes?
Before you all think I’m a pessimist, let me tell you this. After I calmed down a little, I started thinking rationally. Indian culture is also languages which are ancient. Indian culture is also dance forms, and music so unique, people from all over the world come to learn or experience it. There are temples, palaces and forts that stun you. One of the Seven Wonders of the World just happens to be in India.
Indian culture was absorbing other cultures, being tolerant and being able to accept.
Fusion music, certain dance forms are considered ‘bad’. New kinds of attire are not accepted. People label everything and everyone. It is so annoying to go to your class and hear the teachers say “Ah! This class! It has a reputation” with a knowing smirk.
Even though we have all these great monuments and things, what is the use when people are not a part of it?
After thinking about this for a day, I reached a logical conclusion. What my teacher understand as Indian culture, is just her own, not generic Indian.
Culture is beating the drums in a hotel to celebrate something when the rest of the guests are trying to sleep after a long, tiring day...
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