Times change and so do we! Change is the only constant thing in this universe. India is a country rich in a culture millions of years old. Each generation inherits culture and customs from the previous generation. Other than Bollywood, Taj Mahal, spices, its large population, yoga and Ayurveda, India is famous for its rich culture. People from all over the world come here in search of peace and happiness.
The land of Veda and OM, India follows religion wholeheartedly. Whether Hindu, Muslim, Sikh or Christian, each religion has its place and influence in the society. According to Hindu culture the world has four yugs: Era Satyug, Treta Yug, Dwapar Yug and Kalyug. In Treta Yug, Lord Rama, Lord Vishnu’s seventh incarnation and Hinduism’s most worshipped God lived. Many customs taken from that period are still prevalent in the society.
When Lord Rama married Goddess Sita her father gave priceless jewels, stones, thousands of villages, servants etc to Lord Rama’s family. This became a custom and is still common in almost all Hindu marriages. However, it has taken an ugly turn. Nowadays people ask for various things (e.g. houses, cars, jewels, expensive clothes and cash) as dowry from the girl’s parents and will even break the proposal if their demands are not fulfilled. Consequently, dowry has been banned in India and the youth today are doing everything to avoid such a system. They do not allow their parents to ask for it and also complain to the police if it’s required.
There are many other customs which have similarly been taken from past eras and are now part of our culture. For example Holi, the auspicious celebration with colors, is an important occasion in India. People forget their hatred. With love and friendship in mind, they play with colors and celebrate together. Diwali, which marks the triumph of good over evil, is another auspicious celebration in Indian society. Everyone, including Hindus, Muslims and Sikhs, participate in it and share the happiness. Even though the majority of Indians are Hindu, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and Parsis are all part of the rich Indian culture that has been developed and improved over time.
“Atithi Devo Bhava” means “The guest is God.” This is the most prevalent and rooted custom in our culture. Guests from within and outside are welcomed and treated as intimate friends. Indian culture is also about “Ek Aur”, which means “One More.” This is to say that when someone is having lunch or dinner, he/ she is served until completely full. Due to work, studies etc, today’s youth don’t get enough time to do all of this, but they still try hard to maintain it.
In ancient India children were given education on the basis of their caste and religion. Brahmin children were sent to Ashram where they used to study religion and philosophy from their Guru (Teacher). The Kshatriya used to learn the art of warfare and the Vaishyas were taught trade. The fourth class Shrudras were deprived of any education. Today the education system is changed completely. Knowledge is imparted to everyone. All have access to various sources, including classrooms, interactive sessions outside and the internet.
A few decades back people were judged on the basis of their religion and caste. The government has taken some vital steps to fill this gap by providing basic primary education to all children. The government has made various reservations in education institutes and entrance exams for the Shrudra class so that they are not marginalized. The present generation of Indian youth is above all this. They believe in equality for all. Decisions are made, not on the basis of caste, but on the basis of education, work and social ethics.
Women are given equal opportunities to study, work and make their own choices. The literacy rate increased by 68% in 2007, showing the change in people’s mindsets. Earlier, women had been deprived of education no matter what religion they followed. But today women are helping men and even competing with them in almost all sectors.
This is an era of globalization where there are no boundaries for those with talent and a desire to work hard. To be a part of this world, one needs to be broad-minded, well-educated, smart and willing to work hard. The education system has changed a lot. It includes everything that helps a student to think beyond the sky. Boys and girls study together and girls are allowed to express their ideas freely. Their talents are appreciated by one and all.
The second and third generations are open to change, at the same time keeping their values and culture intact. All should be given equal opportunities to work, to study and to showcase their talent to the entire world. Respecting elders and loving young ones are important duties that continue to be inherited from the previous generations.
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