In the colorful world of Indian culture, where complexity emerges in layers upon layers, three main cultural roots appear, each adding a distinct color to the heart of society. “Namaste,” symbolizing unity and respect, “Atithi Devo Bhava,” embodying hospitality and warmth, and the respect for the “Holy Cow,” reflecting a life of nonviolent generosity.
Calcutta, now Kolkata, stands tall as the Cultural Capital of India, soaked in literary history and nationalist passion. Delhi, with its majestic forts and lively markets, shows a charming blend of tradition and modernity, highlighting the first layers of India’s cultural complexity. Mumbai, the cosmopolitan heart of the west coast, beats with opportunity and diversity, earning titles like ‘the land of dreams’ and ‘the city that never sleeps,’ adding another layer of cultural richness to the Indian landscape.
In this article, these three cultural cities epitomize the array of experiences that define India, offering a tempting sight into the 9 layers of cultural complexity that interlinked through every aspect of Indian life.
1. Three Main Cultural Roots
1. Namaste: Greet People with Respect
Namaste, originating from ancient Hindu scriptures, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in Indian society. Translating to “I bow to you,” this traditional greeting symbolizes a meaningful respect for the divine within others, developing an atmosphere of mutual respect and unity. Beyond a simple social convention, Namaste represents a spiritual acknowledgment of the inherent goodness and divine spark present in every individual, integrating physical forms and egos.
Rooted within the practice of Namaste is the recognition of the union of energies shared among all living beings. By honoring the divine energy within oneself and others, individuals acknowledge their unity and the universal flow of energy that binds everyone together. This recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the significant unity that exists among all living things, advancing a sense of modesty, respect, and unity.
Moreover, Namaste is not simply a verbal greeting but also a physical expression known as the Anjali Mudra, practiced in yoga and deeply rooted in Indian culture. Through the gesture of pressing palms together in front of the heart center, individuals symbolize their admiration and acknowledgment of the divine within others, going beyond cultural boundaries and developing a deeper connection with oneself and the world.
Basically, Namaste expresses a comprehensive approach to greeting, interlinking cultural traditions, spiritual principles, and a profound acknowledgment of the inherent divinity within all beings.
2. Atithi Devo Bhava: The Guest is God
“Atithi Devo Bhava,” an ancient Sanskrit phrase meaning “The guest is God,” represents the core value of hospitality deeply rooted in Indian culture. Based on Hindu scriptures and legends, such as the tale of Sudama and Lord Krishna, this tradition emphasizes treating guests with meaningful respect and warmth. Across India, hosts stick to rituals reflecting this principle, ensuring guests are welcomed graciously and provided with the highest care and attention.
The significance of Atithi Devo Bhava extends beyond basic customs; it exemplifies a philosophy of hospitality that overcomes social boundaries. Regardless of caste, color, or religion, hosts in India prioritize the comfort and well-being of their guests, reflecting the perpetual values of love, care, and equality. Through narratives like Sudama’s simple offering and Sabari’s sincere gesture, Atithi Devo Bhava illustrates the significant impact of hospitality, teaching individuals to treat all guests as manifestations of the divine and to grow a culture of warmth, generosity, and respect for one another.
3. Holy Cow: Life of Nonviolent Generosity
In Indian culture, respect for the cow is deeply inherent, originating from its varied significance as a symbol of maternal nourishment, economic prosperity, and religious sanctity. From ancient times, the cow has been respected as a sacred animal, symbolizing Mother Earth’s abundance and providing support through its milk, which nourishes all creatures.
This respect is exemplified in Hinduism, where the cow is considered a maternal figure and is often associated with divinities like Lord Krishna, who is depicted as a cow shepherd and protector. Additionally, the cow’s importance extends beyond religious symbolism, as its products, such as milk and dung, serve as essential resources for daily life, particularly in rural areas where they are used for cooking fuel and agricultural purposes.
The cultural significance of the cow in India is further emphasized by its role in religious rituals and societal norms. Feeding and caring for cows are considered acts of religious merit, reflecting the belief in the sacredness of all life forms and the unity of humans with the natural world. Furthermore, the protection of cows is enshrined in various Vedic scriptures, which emphasize the moral imperative to safeguard these gentle creatures.
Consequently, the slaughter of cows is prohibited in many Indian states, reflecting the cultural ethos that views the cow as deserving of compassion and respect. Overall, the adoration of the cow in Indian culture serves as evidence of the meaningful spiritual connection between humans and the natural world, highlighting the importance of harmony, compassion, and management in the relationship between humanity and the environment.
2. Indian Happiness
India’s position as one of the least happy countries, as highlighted in the 2023 World Happiness Report, represents the varied nature of happiness and the complex interplay of factors shaping individual and societal well-being. Despite economic growth and technological advancements, India deals with a multitude of social, economic, and environmental challenges that impact happiness levels. From poverty and inequality to environmental degradation and inadequate healthcare, these systemic issues pose significant barriers to the pursuit of happiness for millions of Indians, reflecting the need for unified approaches to address underlying structural inequalities and promote universal development.
However, among these challenges, Indian philosophy and cultural heritage offer significant insights into the nature of happiness and its achievement. Rooted in ancient scriptures like the Vedas, happiness is conceptualized not simply as fleeting pleasure, but as a state of mind characterized by satisfaction, love, inner peace, and fulfillment. The Vedas describe various paths to happiness, including spiritual enlightenment (moksha), emphasizing the importance of inner growth and self-realization in the pursuit of lasting happiness.
Furthermore, contemporary perspectives from positive psychology advocate for a holistic approach to happiness, integrating positive emotions, engagement, and meaning into the fabric of daily life. Ultimately, as Abraham Lincoln aptly noted, happiness is a choice; one that individuals can actively grow through their thoughts, actions, and attitudes, going beyond external circumstances and tapping into the inherent capacity for joy and fulfillment within.
3. Indian Social Life
India’s social life is marked by complicated hierarchies, deeply rooted in historical and cultural contexts. The social class system, dominant for thousands of years, continues to shape Indian society, delineating people’s roles, occupations, and even interpersonal interactions. Despite being a political democracy, notions of complete equality remain elusive in daily life, with individuals and social groups ranked based on various essential qualities.
Family, as the most important social unit, symbolizes these hierarchical structures, with a preference for extended families sharing finances and a common kitchen. Moreover, the respect for elders and loyalty to traditional roles further reinforce these hierarchical norms within families, where men outclass women and senior relatives hold authority over junior ones.
Another significant aspect of Indian social life revolves around notions of purity and pollution, which support various status differences. Ritual purity, associated with community and religious practices, dictates behaviors such as daily bathing, dress codes, and dietary restrictions, further reinforcing social hierarchies.
Moreover, the sense of social interdependence dominates Indian life, with individuals deeply rooted in familial, social system, and community networks. Economic activities, social obligations, and even theological beliefs are interlinked with these social ties, highlighting the importance of social support and cooperation in guiding life’s challenges.
Thus, while India’s social fabric is complex and diverse, with a multitude of ethnic, linguistic, and regional variations, comprehensive cultural themes of hierarchy, interdependence, and tradition contribute to social harmony and order.
4. Indian Food
Indian cuisine is a rich textile twined from diverse regional flavors and culinary traditions, with each region boasting its own signature dishes and cooking styles. One of the most interesting aspects of Indian food is its regional diversity, with North Indian, South Indian, East Indian, and West Indian cuisines each offering a unique gastronomic experience. From the spicy dishes of Punjab to the delicate seafood dishes of Kerala, the spread and depth of Indian cuisine are truly remarkable.
Another dominant aspect of Indian food is its deep-rooted connection to culture and identity. Food in India serves as more than just nutrition; it is a reflection of social system, class, family, religion, and regional heritage. Traditional customs and rituals, such as the preparation of special dishes for festivals and weddings, represent the significance of food in Indian society. Moreover, the Indian meal itself is a complex and multi-layered affair, often featuring a multitude of dishes served together on a single platter, each contributing to a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.
Despite the stream of globalization and the emergence of multinational fast-food chains, Indian cuisine remains flexible, adapting, and evolving while staying true to its roots. The globalization of Indian food has led to a blend of flavors, as traditional recipes are reinterpreted to suit contemporary tastes. However, among this culinary evolution, the heart of Indian cuisine; a celebration of diversity, seasonality, and regional authenticity; continues to fill every aspect of food culture in the subcontinent.
5. Indian Relationships
In India, the concept of dating as an originator of marriage is still relatively new and less common compared to Western cultures. Marriage remains the most socially acceptable institution for romantic relationships, with dating often being seen as a modern model that precedes marriage.
Despite this, India has undergone significant societal changes since its independence, transitioning from a traditional and orthodox society to one that is more open-minded and influenced by Western culture. However, despite ancient Indian literature’s openness about love and pleasure, discussing intimacy remains taboo and shameful, leading to a lack of comprehensive education and potential misconceptions, especially among younger generations.
Moreover, Indian relationships are deeply rooted in gestures and actions rather than explicit verbal expressions. Instead of saying “I love you,” individuals often demonstrate their affection through acts of devotion and care, such as fasting, waiting for their partner, or celebrating small successes together.
The path of love and marriage in India often involves directing societal expectations, parental involvement, and cultural norms, making it a complex and elaborate experience. Despite the challenges, love marriages are becoming increasingly accepted, with legal precedents emphasizing the right to choose one’s life partner irrespective of social division, religion, or social status.
However, individuals pursuing love marriages must contend with social shame, parental disapproval, and the need to balance tradition with personal autonomy in a rapidly changing society.
6. Indian Parenting
Parenting in India includes a delicate balance between traditional values deeply rooted in cultural heritage and the evolving demands of a modern, digital age. Rooted in respect, discipline, and strong familial bonds, traditional Indian parenting emphasizes the importance of duty to family, authority, and societal norms. Yet, as India covers technological advancements and global influences, modern parenting practices also highlight the significance of independence, individuality, and adaptability in shaping well-rounded individuals.
Successful parenting in India necessitates linking together the lines of tradition and modernity, offering stability and identity while developing innovation and global awareness.
In the digital era of India, parenting faces unique challenges and opportunities. As families guide the vast landscape of digital connectivity, it becomes crucial to establish boundaries, promote responsible usage, and prioritize safety in online interactions. While encouraging learning and exploration, parents must also be cautious about screen time, privacy concerns, and the potential addictive nature of technology.
Striking a balance between digital engagement and real-life interactions is vital, ensuring that children develop not only technological literacy but also social skills and emotional intelligence essential for their holistic development. By accepting both the everlasting wisdom of tradition and the dynamic tools of modernity, Indian parents can direct the complexities of parenting in the digital age while encouraging their children into culturally rooted yet globally aware individuals.
7. Indian Work Culture
The Indian work culture is characterized by a strong emphasis on hierarchy, where respect for seniors and authority is dominant. This hierarchical structure influences decision-making processes, often resulting in longer timelines for reaching harmony. Additionally, flexibility in time perception is evident, with punctuality considered less essential compared to Western standards.
The office environment in India is evolving, with increasing attention to employee well-being and team-building activities, although it still retains elements of a formal and structured setting. Work-life balance remains a significant concern, with many Indian workers experiencing pressure and mental health issues due to long hours and blurred boundaries between personal and professional life.
In contrast, Western work cultures prioritize work-life balance, with strict loyalty to working hours and clear boundaries between professional and personal life. Professional relationships tend to be more strictly maintained within the workplace, while casual interactions are reserved for outside of work.
Break routines are shorter, focused on efficiency, and the office environment places a high value on health and well-being. They focus on individual contributions rather than seniority. Overall, while both Indian and Western work cultures have their unique characteristics and challenges, understanding and integrating practices from both can lead to a more balanced and productive workplace environment.
8. Traditional Clothing
Traditional clothing in India is a rich cloth fabricated from the lines of diverse cultures, climates, and traditions. From the lively Sarees of the south to the complicated Sherwanis of the north, every region boasts its own unique style. Historically, clothing in India has evolved from simple clothes to elaborate groups, reflecting not just fashion but also rituals and cultural practices.
Today, Indian clothing represents a wide array of fabrics, colors, and decorations, blending traditional elements with modern trends. Whether it’s the graceful wrap of a Saree or the elegant simplicity of a Kurta, Indian cloth is a celebration of heritage and identity, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.
Understanding what to wear in India is essential, as clothes reflect not only personal style but also respect for local customs and traditions. Modesty is highly valued in Indian culture, with both men and women expected to dress conservatively, especially in religious or rural areas. While Western clothing is common in urban centers, traditional Indian clothes like saris, kurtas, and dhotis hold special significance, particularly for formal occasions and religious ceremonies.
Engaging with traditional clothes not only fosters cultural appreciation but also facilitates deeper connections with local communities, enriching the travel experience with a texture of colors, fabrics, and traditions unique to India’s diverse landscape.
9. Three Cultural Cities
1. Calcutta: City of Joy
Calcutta, often referred to as the ‘city of joy,’ holds a prominent place as the Cultural Capital of India. Renowned for its contributions to modern Indian literature and the Indian nationalist movement, Kolkata, as it is now known, is a busy urban center crowded with cultural heritage and artistic influence. Formerly the capital of the British Empire before Delhi, Kolkata still retains traces of colonial influence among its lively streets.
The city’s highlight is the grand celebration of Durga Pujo, a festival that delights all who witness its splendor. Kolkata boasts numerous museums and galleries, including the prestigious Indian Museum, showing the rich heritage of Bengal. Visitors are urged to explore the city’s culinary delights, sampling its array of sweet dishes and local cuisine for a truly fascinating experience.
2. Delhi: Home to Powerful People
Delhi, the capital city of India, stands as an indication of the country’s rich history and diverse culture. Visitors are enchanted by the juxtaposition of modernity and traditional Indian heritage that fills every corner of Delhi. Home to remnants of Mughal-era mosques, forts, and gardens, the city is a treasure collection of historical landmarks. New Delhi, the administrative center, holds great historical significance as the residence of powerful dynasties such as the Pāṇḍavas and the Mughals.
Its lively markets offer a multicultural experience, while its active street food scene provokes the taste buds of locals and tourists alike. Despite its modern advancements, Delhi retains its cultural roots, offering an overflow of experiences to explore and enjoy.
3. Mumbai: The Land of Dreams
Mumbai, a lively cosmopolitan city on the western coast of India, stands as a signal of cultural diversity and economic prosperity. Renowned for its iconic landmarks, extensive markets, and stunning beaches, Mumbai is a magnet for tourists from around the globe. Formerly known as Bombay, the city underwent a name change to Mumbai in 1995, reflecting its Maratha heritage and paying homage to the goddess Mumbadevi.
As India’s largest and most crowded city, Mumbai resonates with energy and opportunity. From towering skyscrapers to lively bazaars, the city offers a dynamic blend of modernity and tradition. Often named ‘the land of dreams’ and ‘the city that never sleeps,’ Mumbai has welcomed people from all walks of life, fostering a live line of cultures and communities over the years.
Key Takings About Indian Culture
1. Cultural Roots: The cultural roots of India run deep, with practices like Namaste, Atithi Devo Bhava, and respect for the Holy Cow shaping societal norms and values, fostering respect, unity, and compassion among its people.
2. Indian Happiness: Despite facing challenges, Indian philosophy offers insights into the nature of happiness, emphasizing inner peace, fulfillment, and spiritual growth as the keys to lasting happiness.
3. Indian Social Life: India’s social fabric is complex, marked by hierarchical structures, familial ties, and interdependence, emphasizing tradition, respect, and community support.
4. Indian Food: Indian cuisine is a lively fabric interlinked from diverse regional flavors and culinary traditions, reflecting not just food but also social systems, cultural heritage, and regional identity.
5. Indian Relationships: Love and marriage in India are evolving, balancing tradition with modernity, parental expectations with personal autonomy, and societal norms with individual desires.
6. Indian Parenting: Parenting in India directs the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, emphasizing respect, discipline, and familial bonds while embracing innovation, independence, and global awareness.
7. Indian Work Culture: The Indian work culture, characterized by hierarchy and flexibility, is evolving to prioritize employee well-being and work-life balance, blending elements of formality with a growing emphasis on health and productivity.
8. Traditional Clothing: Indian clothing is a reflection of cultural heritage and identity, bridging the gap between tradition and modernity while emphasizing modesty, respect for customs, and appreciation for diversity.
9. Cultural Cities: Cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai show India’s rich cultural diversity, blending historical landmarks, artistic influences, and culinary delights to offer a lively page of experiences for locals and tourists alike.
