HIGHLIGHTS OF Indian Culture

India’s People People with different languages People with different religions People with different foods People with different clothing People with different celebrations

LanguageS

DIVERSE Religious Beliefs Hinduism Buddhism Judaism Sikhism Christianity Islam (Muslims) India is the birthplace of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism.

Eating habits Rice Vegetables Masala (Spices) Tea-common drink Every zone has its own special diet. > East Indian dishes > West Indian dishes > North Indian dishes > South Indian dishes Vegetarian foods Non-Vegetarian foods

Traditional clothing Saree Salwar Kurta Dhoti Lungi Sheerwani

Traditional Music of India Hindustani -means classical music of North India Carnatic - means classical music of South India

Elements of Indian Music Melody (raga) Drone (harmony) Rhythm (tala)

Dance FORMS Every dance represents a different culture and ethos of a region or group. Often based on Hindu traditions at religious events A lot of classical dances

Well-known folk dances Bhangra of Punjab Bihu of Assam

Kuchipudi of Andhra Pradesh Almost every state of India has their special dancing format.

India is called the land of festivals and fairs There are many different festivals because of the varied religions One festival that doesn't depend on the religion: Independence Day

greetings The traditional Indian greeting namaste is uttered while joining palms together (as if in prayer) under the chin, slightly nodding the head, and looking down.

Forms of address The suffix ji (pronounced “jee”), is appropriate for both genders, regardless of age. It can be attached to a given name as in “Michael-ji”, or “Jones-ji”. A more familiar (though more humble) suffix is sahab (pronounced “saab”). It can also be used with titles (e.g., “Doctor- sahab” or “Professor-sahab”). __________________________________________________ People older than you are never addressed by first names. Their names are often followed by aunty or uncle (e.g., “Sheila Aunty”), whether they are related to you or not. Teachers and professors are always Sir or Maʼam, with these forms of address often persisting well after graduation. ___________________________________________________ People use suffix bhaiya for male & didi for female after addresse’s name; who are of same age group.

India, a land of UNITY in DIVERSITY