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Unit 1
Chapter 1 – Introduction to Cultural Activities
Meaning of Culture:
Culture is an important concept. Culture means the shared beliefs, values,
traditions, behaviors, and practices of a particular group or community. Every culture celebrates in its own unique way, such as festivals, rituals, food, music, dance, and language. Culture defines a society and creates a sense of identity and belongingness for its members. It also includes art, literature, history, religion, and social norms. Every country, region, or community has its own distinct culture that shapes its identity.
Definitions of Culture by Indian Authors:
1. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan(1888-1975):
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a prominent Indian philosopher, scholar, and statesman who served as the first Vice President of India (1952-1962) and the second President of India (1962-1967). He was also a distinguished writer and a strong advocate for education and Indian culture. His works reflected a deep understanding of Indian culture, He described culture as: “the art of living together, of sharing and respecting each other’s differences. Dr. Radhakrishnan's contributions to Indian culture and philosophy continue to inspire many to appreciate and uphold the cultural heritage of India.
2. R.K. Mukerjee: R.K. Mukerjee was a famous Indian writer and social activist. He was born in 1889 and was very adamant in his study of Indian history and Sanskrit. Mukerjee wrote many books and reflected deeply on Indian history, Sanskrit, and national consciousness. His contribution was also very important in India's independence movement. Mukerjee's writings still influence people and make his thinking understandable.
3. M.N. Srinivas(1916-1999): M.N. Srinivas was a famous Indian sociologist. He was born in 1916 and did great work in the field of Bharatiya Samaj and Sanskriti. Srinivas thought deeply on concepts like caste system, society and empire and his thoughts helped in understanding the society. His experiences and research presented new perspectives in Indian sociology and his work remains important even today.
Culture And it’s Manifestations:
Culture is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses the beliefs,
customs, traditions and behaviours shared by a group of people. It is passed down from generation to generation and manifests in various forms, including language, religion, cuisine, social habits, music, and arts.
Here, are several ways in which culture manifests, with example from India:
1. Language and Literature:
Language is the medium of a society through which people can express their thoughts, feelings, and knowledge. Literature reflects the beauty and personality of a language. Through the medium of literature, people express their experiences, imagination, and social trends.
Sanskrit: As one of the oldest languages in the world, Sanskrit holds a revered place in Indian culture. It is the classical language of Hinduism, as well as the source of a vast body of literature, including Vedas, and epic poem like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. These texts not only convey religious and philosophical ideas but also encapsulate the values abd historical narratives of ancient Indian society.
Regional Languages: Each region of India has its own language and literary tradition, contributing to the country’s cultural richness. These languages are called local language or regional language. These languages are spoken by people of a particular region or community.
Religion and Spirituality:
Religion and spirituality play a very important role in a person's life. Religion provides a path to a person's spiritual peace and prosperity. Apart from this, spirituality is important for the inner development and guidance of a person. Having faith in God or the Supreme Lord and living one's life on His path, having faith in good behavior, giving, and love are the basic principles of religion and study which help a person in the right direction and balance.
Hinduism: Hinduism is an ancient religion of the world which started from India. Hinduism’s festivals, rituals, and mythology are deeply woven into the fabric of Indian culture. Diwali, the festival of lights, symbolizes the victory of light over darkness and is celebrated with the lighting of lamps, fireworks, and sharing of sweets. Holi, the festivals of colours, marks the arrival of spring and is celebrates with throwing of coloured powders, symbolizing the joy of life and the victory of good over evil.
Buddhism: Buddhism is an ancient religion based on the teachings of Gautam Buddha. There are four main truths in this religion: Dukkha, Samudaya, Nirodha, and Marga. The followers of this religion give importance to places like stupa, vihar, and chaitya. Buddhist painting, sculpture and development of Buddhist literature are also important in Sanskrit. Buddha statues, Buddhist viharas, and Buddhist places have a special place in Indian Sanskrit.
2. Cuisine: Indian cuisine is as diverse as its culture with each region offering unique flavors and culinary traditions. North Indian Cuisine: Known for it’s rich, creamy curries and breads like naan and roti, North Indian cuisine and iconic dishes such as butter chicken, paneer tikka, and biryani. The use of dairy products such as yogurt and ghee, is a hallmark of this region’s culinary style.
South Indian Cuisine:
Characterized by the use of rice, coconut and a variety of spices, South Indian cuisine includes popular dishes such as dosa, idli, sambhar and rasam. The food is often served on a banana leaf, reflecting a traditional and eco-friendly practice.
Your Curriculum Companion The Essential Guide to Teaching the El Education K 5 Language Arts Curriculum 1st Edition Libby Woodfin Suzanne Nathan Plaut all chapter instant download
Your Curriculum Companion The Essential Guide to Teaching the El Education K 5 Language Arts Curriculum 1st Edition Libby Woodfin Suzanne Nathan Plaut all chapter instant download
