Q8. What makes Indian society unique in sustaining its culture? Discuss.
Model Answer:
Introduction
Ans. The resilience of Indian society in preserving its culture is remarkable, given its vast diversity. India is a mosaic of languages, religions, and traditions, each contributing to a rich cultural tapestry. The accommodative spirit of Indian society, as emphasised by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, has played a crucial role in this preservation.
Body
Indian society balances modernity and tradition through several mechanisms:
Historical Continuity: Ancient practices and festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Pongal are celebrated with the same fervour today as they were centuries ago. This continuity is evident in the preservation of classical arts like Bharatanatyam and Kathak.
Sense of Harmony: The concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family) fosters a sense of unity and coexistence. This is seen in the peaceful cohabitation of diverse communities in cities like Mumbai and Delhi.
Spirituality and Religion: India is home to major religions like Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism. Religious practices and pilgrimages, such as the Kumbh Mela, continue to draw millions, reflecting deep-rooted spiritual values.
Family Structure: The joint family system, though evolving, still plays a significant role in imparting cultural values and traditions to younger generations.
Education and Literature: Ancient texts like the Vedas, Upanishads, and epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana are integral to Indian education, ensuring the transmission of cultural knowledge.
Festivals and Cuisine: Regional festivals and diverse cuisines are celebrated and enjoyed across the country, promoting cultural exchange and unity.
Constitutional Provisions: Articles 29 and 30 of the Indian Constitution protect the rights of minorities to conserve their culture, language, and script. This legal framework supports cultural diversity and inclusivity.
However, there are challenges in preserving Indian culture:
Ethnic Violence: Incidents of communal violence threaten the fabric of Indian society, as seen in the 2002 Gujarat riots and the 2020 Delhi riots.
Urbanisation: Rapid urbanisation leads to the erosion of traditional lifestyles and practices, as seen in metropolitan cities like Bengaluru and Hyderabad.
Globalisation: The influence of Western culture through media and technology can overshadow indigenous practices and values.
Economic Pressures: Economic disparities can lead to the neglect of cultural heritage, as communities prioritise survival over tradition.
Conclusion
The unique pluralistic nature of Indian society is its strength. To preserve this culture, it is essential to promote inclusive education, support cultural institutions, and encourage inter-community dialogue. Principles from Indian philosophy, such as 'Sarva Dharma Sambhava' (equal respect for all religions), can guide this effort. While there has been some erosion of culture over the years, the values deeply rooted in Indian society continue to sustain its rich cultural heritage.
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