Transcript India

INDIA
A Cultural Glimpse
DIFFERING CULTURES
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Just as there are different cultural traditions in different
areas of the US, there are varying traditions throughout
India.
Culture can refer to a number of different aspects of life,
such as language, religion, food, music, and customs.
LANGUAGE
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The main language of India is known as Hindi, or
Modern Standard Hindi. Hindi is a descendant of
Sanskrit, an ancient language. Hindi consists of
many different dialects, which are spoken in
various parts of the country.
The second most common language in India is
English.
Though the majority of the population speaks one
or both of these languages, there are literally
hundreds of different languages spoken throughout
the region.
RELIGION
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There are four major religions that were founded
in India.
Hinduism
 Buddhism
 Jainism
 Sikhism
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Today, the majority of Indian people are Hindu,
but many practice other faiths, including
Christianity and Islam.
FOOD
For many Indian people, diet is connected to religion.
Therefore, many Indians are vegetarians.
 Indian dishes are known for being spicy – not
necessarily “hot”, but very flavorful.
 Just as with language, there are many cuisines that
are native to certain areas of the country.
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MUSIC
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Indian music has different styles and sounds,
just like music from anywhere else in the world.
The instrument that is most commonly
associated with Indian music is the sitar.
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CUSTOMS
Hindu weddings in India follow very specific and
strict traditions according to ancient rituals.
 It is considered a very serious and sacred event,
yet still celebrated as a joyous occasion.
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CUSTOMS
Arranged marriages have been a part of Indian
culture for hundreds of years.
 Marriages are arranged by the parents of the
bride and groom.
 Young men and women are very seldom allowed
to “date” and do not often interact socially.
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THE NAMESAKE
BY JHUMPA LAHIRI
Essential Questions:
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How is identity formed and maintained?
How does a name define a person?
Is it possible to reconcile or assimilate
two cultures without conflict?
How do traditions, the past, and history
inform the present?
ESSENTIAL UNDERSTANDINGS