The debate on Indian culture The fight against Western culture has existed for a long time. Everyone brings their unique ideas to the topic. These two cultures are unique, meaningful and beautiful in their own way. The world as we know it today would never have existed if either of these cultures had been absent.
Western culture derives most of its customs and traditions from European culture. Indian culture, however, is more diverse. Each state in the country brings with it its traditions and cultures that are very different from those of its neighbor. Analyzing the differences between them, it is not surprising that the ever-living debate between Indian culture and Western culture still finds an audience.
The story
The term culture refers to the norms, rituals, beliefs and practices followed by a set of people belonging to a particular region or community. Every nation and continent has its own culture. It is this knowledge of their indigenous culture that distinguishes a particular nation or community from others. The culture of the land plays a considerable role in influencing the way of life of its natives.
Indian history is quite ancient compared to Western history. In fact, the history of India is said to have begun with the advent of the Indus Valley Civilization in 2600 BC. Over the ages, the country has experienced many changes, which are aptly reflected in art, culture, literature and architecture of India.
Western civilization is also quite ancient and is believed to have its roots in ancient Greek civilization. Throughout the ages, Western culture and civilizations have made a number of significant contributions to world literature and architecture. A glimpse into Western history would undoubtedly reveal several literary and artistic legends such as Michelangelo and William Shakespeare, who were instrumental in shaping the culture of today’s Western world.
Religion
India is the land of many religions, although the majority of the Indian population follows Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Buddhism and Jainism are also practiced by a significant number of people. In most Western countries, Christianity is the most widely practiced religion, with Islam and Judaism also practiced by a considerable number of people.
Festivals
Indian culture is one of the oldest cultures prevalent in the world today. India is home to many festivals that take place throughout the year. Each state has its own distinct festivals, which mark certain crucial events. The festivals are all celebrated with great pomp and splendor. Indian festivals include Holi, Onam, Pongal among others.
In Western culture too, people celebrate festivals with great joy. Popular Western festivals include Mardi Gras, Thanksgiving, St. Patrick’s Day and many others. However, some festivals are global. Many people around the world celebrate holidays like Christmas and Eid, regardless of their nationality.
Music
Music has always been an integral part of all world cultures; Each country has its distinct musical style, which suits the country and its people. Western music is totally different from Indian music in several ways. Indian music is mainly composed of Hindustani classical music, Carnatic musicamong others. Traditional musical instrumentslike Tabla, Veena and Shehnai, are still used to produce soothing and melodious music in India.
On the other hand, the Western musical scenario is quite different; it mainly includes jazz, rock, heavy metal and hip hop. The opera is another popular attraction. It is a form of theatrical art that is distinguished by its musical component.
Dance
India has a number of art forms spread across the country. Bewitching Bharatanatyam and the splendid Mohiniyattam At Animated garba and graceful Manipurithe country has beautiful and majestic dance forms that are unique to each state.
In Western countries, you can also find many different dance forms! Ballet, waltz, salsa, tango, etc. are among the most popular dances, performed in various contexts.
Art
The themes of indian art are different and varied unlike that of Western art. Indian art mainly included elements of religious significance. The paintings also depict scenes inspired by the artist’s daily life. Legends of Indian art include Abindranath Tagore, Raja Ravi VarmaMr. F. Hussein, Jamini Royamong others.
Western paintings are very popular for their unique depiction of the human figure and fascinating landscapes. Apart from this, many paintings also depict scenes from the Bible. Western art legends include Vincent Van Gogh, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Picasso and many more.
Literature
Western literature is a good reflection of society. Aside from the realistic depiction of their lives, Western literature is quite unique because of its liberal use of a variety of techniques to tell the story. Chivalry, romance, loyalty, fantasy and individualism are some of the key elements of Western literature. Western literary legends include William Shakespeare, Christopher Marlowe and George Bernard Shaw.
Indian literature differs from that of Western literature both in themes and in style of narration. Indian literature mainly focuses on the realistic portrayal of the problems prevalent in society. Obedience, morality, courage and human values are among the most recurring themes in Indian literature. Rabindranath TagoreSarojini Naidu and Premchand are among India’s most popular literary legends.
Traditional dress
Each Indian state has a distinct culture and hence clothing styles differ from region to region. For example, the clothing worn Rajasthan is very different from that worn in the southern state of Kerala. Most people in many states prefer the traditional attire which is saree for women and kurta, dothi for men.
People in Western countries wear clothes that are perceived as more modern than Indian clothes. But many Western indigenous communities still take pride in their traditional clothing, which embodies their rich culture and history. But with the advent of globalization, people around the world are adapting to a universal style of clothing that includes jeans, skirts, t-shirts, etc. The young generation of India is more attracted to the Western style of dressing than the Western style of dressing. traditional clothes.
Suggested Reading – Diversity among traditional costumes of India (infographic)
Family values
Although most modern families in India are mostly nuclear in contemporary times, this was not the case a few years ago. Previously, Indian families were mostly joint families with all family members living under the same roof. The notion of arranged marriagesvery popular in India, would undoubtedly be unknown in Western countries.
Food culture
The Indian staple food is mainly rice and the cuisine includes a wide variety of side dishes. In India, North Indian cuisine differs considerably from that of South Indian cuisine. Popular dishes of North Indian cuisine include Parathas, Pani Puri, Chole Bature, among others. While South Indian cuisine includes dishes such as Dosa, Sambhar, Payasam and Sadhya.
In Western countries, eating habits are very distinct. Western cuisine is a mixture of various food cultures such as European cuisine, North American cuisine, Mexican cuisine, etc. Each of these cuisines is very different from the others. The most popular dishes of European cuisine are Arancini, Pierogi and Palatschinken, while Mexican cuisine is popular for its Tacos and Burritos. People in Western countries generally prefer wheat to rice. It therefore constitutes an important part of their diet.
The verdict
In almost every aspect of life, these cultures have their specific perspectives and practices, adapted to their territory and way of life. From the music they listen to, their style of dress and the food they eat, everything highlights the differences that prevail between the two cultures.
Every culture is unique and beautiful in its own way. The debate between Indian culture and Western culture may never see its end. But it is up to the individual to choose the right elements from each culture and integrate them into their life.