As the Independence Day arrives, I get immense pleasure to think that India is celebrating its 64 years of independence. Though, my country is still a developing nation, yet it plays an imperative role in the world economy and its diverse culture is one of its kind, found nowhere in any part of the world. So on August 15, as I stand to sing the National Anthem, paying tribute to all our freedom fighters, I raise my head up high feeling proud that I AM AN INDIAN.
But come to think of it. Are we really proud? Indianness – a tag I’ve noticed, most people around me resist. They like to be addressed MODS (a slang for modern). Some groups of people, who seem to dictate the rest, have adopted a style which is very much influenced by the West. Indians are known for their manners, way of communicating with one another, and their friendly disposition. But in trying to imitate the west, we have forgotten few of the important components of our culture.
For instance, Conversing in Hindi is considered disdainful. Western outfits are more hip-hop these days. The other day I had worn a sari to my daughter’s school and I only found people gazing at me as if I have no status or sophistication. In their language I did not belong to their society. On the contrary, I happened to meet an American on a train and she was so amazed as to how Indians tie a six-metre long cloth so beautifully and carry it with such elegance. Ironically, we look at it with such ignominy. I don’t understand, why? I would not be as embarrassed for anything as I am when I see my own Indian friends mocking at someone who is less westernized.
Etiquette in terms of manners and the way of dressing differ in every country. I am not trying to say that one should not adapt or try newer styles, language or culture. The globe is shrinking & we are all getting closer to each other in many ways. My only argument is why look down upon your own ideas, customs and social behaviour? Why are people forgetting that the people abroad never ever shove off their country’s values to own any other’s . Unfortunately, it’s we who are forgetting them and shockingly, loving to do so.
Actually no one is to be blamed in a way. Acceptance is the key. People want to be accepted well in the society. It’s probably only a small segment of the populace which has developed such ideas but most of us are just blindly following it. We refuse to apply our mind into it as it’s simple and satisfying to adopt acknowledged standards.
However, I refuse to follow them. I totally disagree with such notions. And, every time I observe such a thing, It not only makes me surer about my (Indian) way of life but also more resolute that I will, by all means, teach my children to respect our traditional Indian culture. Even if they adopt some western ways, they should not in the least be mortified with our own customs or conduct. They should be proud to be Indians.
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