4 Keys to Why ‘It’ Matters – THE CULTURE

Culture and heritage play an important role in our lives. Countries and societies use diverse methods to preserve their culture and heritage. Some document it through architectural skills, some write manuscripts in great detail while some record it digitally. This is because as a society we understand the importance of documenting our culture and heritage. People document their past and preserve that to make sure their culture is clearly understood by the generations to come. Otherwise, a lot of valuable experience and rich wisdom can vanish. Moreover, seeking information about your own heritage is important as it gives you a chance to understand the traditions that are specific to your ancestors. By doing this, you will gain a historical perspective of your family & society.

Indian culture is exclusive and is the land of some of the oldest cultures in the world. India is one such country that has many religions, beliefs, languages, and foods. Jainism, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, Christianity, and Islam are some religions followed in India. Children know about festivals and celebrations but are still missing out on the deeper diversity that is rooted in our culture.

Why is it essential to teach students about Indian culture and traditions?

The saying "Unity in Diversity" is not just words. From ancient times, India has always been famous for its traditions. The warmth of people and euphoric celebrations makes our country so special. Indian culture has a vibrancy of all sorts, the country is an example of tolerance, cooperation, secularism, coexistence, and social bond among brethren. Indian culture has never been rigid and that is one of the reasons it survives with pride even today. Every aspect of Indian culture has varied layers attached to it that make it unique.

Cultural Heritage plays a very important role in our life. It is what keeps us attached to our religion, traditions, & beliefs. In today’s context, we refer to cultural identity which means (feeling of) identity of a group or culture, or of an individual as far as he or she is influenced by his or her belonging to a group or culture. It is necessary to give awareness of Cultural Heritage and the ethics of its care in the study curriculum and to identify tools that can be developed to help communities for the better understanding and conserve their heritage. Here are a few tips –

It gives connection to the younger generation

Cultural heritage can give people a connection to certain social values, beliefs, religions and customs. It allows them to identify with others of similar mindsets and backgrounds. Cultural heritage can provide an automatic sense of unity and belonging within a group and allow us to understand about previous generations and the history of where we come from.

It gives us the communal support

Those that identify strongly with a certain heritage are often more likely to help out others in that same community. Cultural heritage is made up of many things large and small. We can see it in the buildings, townscapes, and even in archaeological remains. Culture can be perceived through natural sources as well: the agriculture and landscapes associated with it. It is preserved through books, artifacts, objects, pictures, photographs, art, and oral tradition. Cultural heritage is in the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the religions we follow, and the skills we learn. Sometimes we can touch and see what makes up a culture; other times it is intangible. By having the same culture and tradition people who live in the same society will help each other or people give communal support to each other.

There are many ways in which children can learn about Indian culture and traditions. Here are a few tips:

Follow Indian culture at home

Learning starts at home. Celebrate festivals following Indian culture, tradition, and rituals. This is an interesting and fun way that can give them a true sense of their identity.

Show them examples of Indian culture

Children learn through examples. Indian culture is rooted in different beliefs. Every family has a way of celebrating festivals or a way of performing rituals. Schools are an ideal platform to inculcate tolerance and educate children of different faiths, traditions, and cultures through the celebration of festivals and special days. SFS Guwahati has always tried to impart the cultural values to the students by creating an environment suitable enough for letting the students understand the value, essence and spirit of each festival.

Watch Indian cultural programs

Show them folks dances or attend Indian cultural programs in and around the community. Such activities spark curiosity in a child’s mind and help them to come closer to understanding Indian customs and traditions.

Give them books on Indian culture and make children participate in traditional games and activities

Give them books on Indian values and culture. Reading promotes imagination and develops language and emotions. Reading can also give children facts about culture and heritage. Traditional games have been passed down from one generation to another and their origins go back centuries. Traditional games can help children remember their roots and aid in the development of their mother tongue.

Discuss the different cultures of each state

India is a big country and each state has a unique culture and different traditions. Festivals are celebrated differently in states. It is important to talk to children about these unique traditions so they are aware of the vibrant side of the country.

Take a trip to another state

Take children on a school or family trip to another state or region. Travel is the best way to learn. Children can experience the different sides of Indian culture by being physically present, interacting with locals, eating authentic food, and living as the locals do.

Encourage traditional dressing and food

Wearing traditional ethnic clothing in day-to-day life or festivals is a way of showing love, and respect, and acknowledging the traditional values that have been passed on from one generation to another. With fast food becoming prevalent in the country, children forget the value and benefits of traditional food. Traditional food brings out a sense of comfort and belonging. It brings people together. These all contribute to the values of India. It also helps children bond with friends and family.

About SFS School, Guwahati

SFS Guwahati is one of the best Private CBSE School in Guwahati with Integrated Coaching, awarded with the "Certificate of Excellence" by Bharat Shiksha Puraskar and Ranked №24 across India for "Mental Health" Ranking 2021.

Teacher and content writer at St. Fransic De Sales School. https://sfsguwahati.ac.in/