What Was Your Biggest Culture Shock While Living in or Visiting India?
As an experienced SEO specialist, I've had the privilege of exploring and understanding the vast landscape of India's diverse culture through my work and personal experiences. The movie ‘Fighter’ has vividly illustrated a profound connection between India and its people, as exemplified in the lines: “Duniya me mil jayenge ashiq kahi par watan se hasin sanam nahi hota. Heero me simat kar sone me lipat kar marte hai kahien par tirange se khubsurat kafan nahi hota.” Translated, this reflects a deep affection for one's nation, akin to the preciousness of the tricolor (Indian flag), symbolizing devotion and national pride.
Having lived in India for over two decades, I've experienced a unique sort of cultural shock that is both familiar and alien at times. The impact of Bollywood and South Indian culture has seeped into my life, inevitably influencing my perspective. While I am fond of the rich cultural tapestry that Bollywood movies offer, I am also deeply rooted in my adopted home, a marvel of contrasts and contradictions.
Village and Slums
Any visitor to India, especially from a developed country, is bound to be struck by the stark contrast between opulent cityscapes and the reprehensible living conditions in many slums. While I have traveled extensively in developing nations and am accustomed to such inequalities, for a first-time visitor from a developed country, it's almost unimaginable. The extent of deprivation that exists alongside prosperity can be overwhelming and saddening. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Indian people, yet it leaves one questioning the societal norms and resource distribution.
National Sentiments and Bollywood's Influence
Often, national sentiments are expressed through the most unlikely mediums. Bollywood, with its powerful narrative and romanticization of national identity, has played a significant role in shaping my understanding of India. While growing up, I absorbed much of my cultural knowledge through these films, not just entertainment but a reflection of society and values. My deep immersion in Bollywood has even made me conversant in parts of the Urdu language, a cultural touchstone that unites India and Pakistan.
A Devotional Shock: Temple Prasad
One particular incident from a vlog I watched on YouTube stands out as a stark reminder of the profundity of religious devotion in India. The vlogger, visiting a temple in South India (possibly Udupi), recounted how after offering prayers to the main deity, the community sat on the ground to receive their Prasad (holy food offering). The Prasad was not served on plates but directly on the floor, where everyone had walked barefoot, making the act of receiving Prasad a profoundly intimate, yet potentially hygienic, experience.
I personally found this practice very unusual and even shocking. The belief is that the Prasad is sacred and not contaminated by the ground, but common sense suggests that we should be cautious about eating food that has been potentially contaminated. This disregard for hygiene in the name of piety challenges conventional norms and underscores the depth of spiritual devotion among the Indian populace.
Conclusion
India is a nation where cultural and spiritual practices blend seamlessly into everyday life, often challenging the realms of logic and reason. Living in or visiting India can be enlightening and humbling, offering a unique lens through which to view the world. From the profound sentiments expressed in Bollywood films to the peculiarities of religious practices, India's culture is a rich tapestry that continues to captivate and inspire.