People often twist the meaning of culture and religion. Religion believes in a God or Gods, whereas culture comprises the ideas, arts and customs passed down from generation to generation. India consists of so many religions. I firmly believe that all these religions donate their best qualities to create the magnificence of Indian culture. Indian culture is more than any words can describe. It is harmony in diversity, fraternity, brotherhood and mutual love. My grandfather used to tell me a story that I think sums up my understanding of Indian culture.
He was born in undivided India, present-day Pakistan, before the partition of India. He departed for Patna with his family by train a few months before the split. It consisted of his father, mother and five children. My great-grandfather was an accountant in the military, so the family was fortunate enough to get a seat in one of the first trains leaving for India. They had just two weeks to uproot their lives and move away eternally. They packed most of their belongings but had to leave a lot of cherished memories behind. They carried tonnes of food with them, even more than clothes. They did not know how long it would take them. They said goodbye to their home forever and got on the train.
The atmosphere was unnerving. No one knew what lay on the other side. Everyone on the train was praying to different Gods in different ways and languages, but they all prayed for the same thing: protection. The train ride was three days long. Along the way, everybody started to get to know each other. They shared food with those who did not have any, stood and gave their seats to the elderly, cared for each other's children, shared their beds with strangers, and gave away blankets and sweaters on cold nights. They created a community within those compartments, sharing their stories. They did not care where everyone came from, what or who they believed in, or what language they spoke. They came together in times of distress without prejudice and made it across the border with a strong bond. My grandfather holds those memories very close to his heart. They were not dim and grievous; but cheerful and optimistic.
That is what Indian culture means. It brings people together and fosters affection, respect, kinship and endearment regardless of things that divide us. It is ingrained in our people to love, but bias makes us hate. Culture brings us together and teaches us to adore and appreciate each other.
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