10 Unique Things About Indian Culture
India has certain cultural practices and traditions that bring out its uniqueness and unity in diversity. It is vital to know about them, as they are interesting and have a lot of intrinsic meaning. Countries located in the eastern part of the world also follow many of them. They arise from ancient Indian scriptures that tell people how they should conduct their way of life.
What are the main features of Indian culture?
Opt for a Dubai to India flight and reach any of the country’s metropolises to explore its cuisine and local culture through tour programs. You will find so many unique features of Indian culture that will make you feel peaceful. It will give insight into many scientific thoughts and methods that people in ancient times used to maintain a serene society. Here is a look at some key aspects of Indian culture:
1. An important aspect of Indian culture and tradition is the cow. It is considered sacred as it is the source of milk from which many dairy products can be manufactured. People worship it on special occasions. Moreover, homes conducted for family peace and prosperity use its urine and dung.
2. When you are with family and friends, you are going to surely greet them. In India, this is done with the namaskaram. It means I bow to divinity in you. It is a respectful way of saying hello, goodbye, and thank you. They give utmost importance to a guest at home. According to Indian tradition, a guest is God as per the Sanskrit saying ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’.
3. An important ingredient used in various ceremonies and dishes across the country is turmeric. People favor this yellow-colored spice because they believe it drives away infections and holds sacred significance. People also use it on lamps and vessels during festivals and incorporate it into almost every dish on a daily basis.
4. Spicy food is a signature of Indian cuisine. All across the country, you can find it, be it in the main course or a snack. Right from the ordinary samosa to the delicious Mughlai cuisine or the Bengali side dishes, a combination of aromatic spices is used in everything. Even in desserts that are placed before the gods during festivals, a lot of lovely spice is fused into the food to give it a relishing taste.
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5. Weddings are an extravaganza throughout the country. No matter which community you come from, it can be seen in the spectacular celebrations that are seen on this occasion. Everyone, right from the bride and groom to their families, extended families, and friends, is invited to spend time enjoying the finest food, dance, music, and other activities that are part of the huge celebrations that occur on the wedding day. Today, shortened versions of their original ceremonies prevail, but nevertheless, people follow them everywhere.
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6. Married women always wear Sindoor on their foreheads which show their married status. They also wear the mangalsutra, which their husbands tie on their wedding day. They also wear toe rings and bangles to show their respect for their husband.
7. Throughout the year, there are so many festivals that occur, but one common practice for many of them is fasting. For example, during Navratri, there are so many women and men who fast when they do not eat certain types of foods. Fasting helps to maintain weight and cleanses it of toxins. It also promotes discipline, especially in cultivating the food habits they should embrace.
8. During many festivals and special occasions when religious activities require adherence, families use various symbols at home, such as the Swastika. In the south, women put Kolam on the floor using rice power, or rice paste. In such times, women wear saris, often those made from silk, and men wear dhoti, also from the same material. The modern style does not tie them. But, they tie them according to the demands of the followed ritual or the celebrated festival.
9. When you come across families, you will find that instead of living single or as a unit family. Many people live with their parents in a joint family. Though urbanisation has brought with it many changes across the country, this facet of our culture remains intact still. Many semi-urban areas and villages observe joint families living. Also, a significant number of joint families also reside in a few cities. The family size is huge with many generations living under one roof.
10. Across the country, there are many places where sages meditate. If you look at the Himalayas, this vast mountain range has so many sages who practice meditation daily and go to the most austere yoga exercises. There are many centres across the country where you can learn meditation techniques and various yoga poses that help keep your mind and body in the best condition.
Experience the rich tapestry of Indian culture best by flying from Dubai to India and visiting key cities such as Bombay, Varanasi, Kolkata, Chennai, or Pune. Feel it in the streets, shops, homes of traditional people, and cultural avenues where these places showcase music and dance. Visit local craft and textile stores where you can see traditional work processes in place and understand their history, which is also a means of learning about Indian culture.
