India is one of the oldest civilizations with a composite and versatile culture that Westerners may find baffling. Before traveling from the USA to India one should know something about India.
Knowing the practices and customs of a foreign country is part of the excitement of traveling. It also aids in understanding the people and getting acquainted with the diverse culture of that country.
If you are one of those who wish to explore the beautiful culture of the country, book your cheapest flights to India now.
A few social customs to keep in mind are:
1. LANGUAGE AND TRADITIONS
As you travel across various cities of India, you will experience a change in language and traditions. Indian languages are part of the rich culture of this land.
The official language of the country is Hindi, while English is the secondary language. Though Hindi forms the primary language, languages of native-tongues are very popular.
You will experience a change of dialects in India depending on the demographic location.
Different regions of the country have different cultures and traditions. Search for the cheaper airfares to your destination and learn newer languages. Despite all this, Unity in Diversity is the hallmark of the country.
2. FOOD
You will also witness the cultural diversity in the cuisine and food habits practiced in different parts of the country.
The method of cooking varies from region to region. Every Indian cuisine has its own trademark and people in different parts of the world admire Indian food.
People believe that experiencing Indian culture sans Indian food is an incomplete experience.
You can easily reach your destination that offers your favorite delicacy by booking flights to Kolkata and other similar destinations.
Indian cuisine is a good blend of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies and the intelligent uses of spices and herbs.
3. FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATIONS
As you explore the various cities of India, you will witness various celebrations and festivals.
These fairs and festivals are an integral part of Indian culture and people celebrate these during the change of seasons. For example, the Mewar festival and Holi welcome the spring season.
Teej celebrated in Rajasthan is to signal the arrival of the monsoon. People celebrate Onam in Kerala and Bihu in Assam with high passion and gusto to observe the inception of the reaping season.
And when you book cheap flights to India during December, you can enjoy Christmas to the fullest.
4. FAMILY VALUES
Indian society highly reserves family values. A unique bond of love and affection is abundantly present in the Indian family system.
While nuclear families are mushrooming in Indian society, patriarchal dominance still continues to exist in some households.
Here the people greet the elders of the family with the utmost respect. First, greet the most senior or the oldest individual in a group. A formal ‘Namaste’ is a good way of greeting people in India.
People with titles are supposed to be addressed using their titles. Use ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam’ for the ones without any professional titles.
It is advisable not to address people with their first names unless asked to do so, particularly when addressing elder Indians.
5. ART AND LITERATURE
Skill and grace mark the works of art and literature of India. Indian art forms a fundamental part of Indian culture.
Indian artwork not only portrays the craftsmanship of the artist but is also a symbol of society. You can experience a rich blend of art, craft, and literature while you explore several regions of the country.
Every region has its own art that lends uniqueness and diversity to Indian culture. Also, the major crafts of India comprise idol making, painting, metal statues, wood sculptures, ornaments, and jewelry.
Indian poetry, Indian literature, Indian epic poetry Mahabharata and Ramayana, Sculpture, Painting, Architecture- everything is highly portrayed and interpreted through philosophy and religion.
Now that you are equipped with various traditions and cultures of the country, plan your flights to India from US and get set to dive into the depth of its rich culture and varied heritage.
