Cultural Norms in India: Faith, Family, Finance and Beyond
India is a land of rich cultural heritage, diverse religions, and varied social practices. In this vast and complex society, certain rules are always followed and strongly ingrained in the mindset and behavior of the people. These norms significantly influence daily life, beliefs, and interactions. In this article, we will delve into two prominent cultural norms in India: the “Fear of God” and the “rules are made to be broken”.
Fear of God
The dialogue from the movie "OH My God" wonderfully illustrates how faith and devotion in India are often based on a fear of divine beings. Evidently, the fear of God is a deeply rooted cultural norm that extends beyond religious practices, affecting everyday life and decision-making.
The film OH My God highlights the manipulation of people's faith and emotions by purported "gods" or "guru." The commentary by Mithun Chakrabarty brings to light the blind faith that many people hold, often leading them to follow anyone who claims to be God-like or spiritual. This fear and dependence on such figures can have detrimental effects on individuals and society as a whole. The quote, "The faith and belief of the people are just like drugs" signifies the profound influence that these beliefs can have on one's life, highlighting how easy it becomes to become addicted to such faith and how difficult it can be to let go.
It is essential to understand that this fear is not limited to the less educated or underdeveloped sections of society. Even highly educated individuals can fall prey to manipulative religious or spiritual leaders, emphasizing the universal nature of this cultural norm.
Rules Are Made to Be Broken
Another significant cultural norm in India is the belief that "rules are made to be broken." This mindset is often seen in the context of traffic rules and interactions within social circles.
In India, traffic rules are often not strictly adhered to. A green signal might prompt drivers to proceed with caution, but a yellow signal could be seen as an invitation to increase speed. Even a red signal is sometimes ignored if there is no sign of police nearby, further illustrating the pervasive attitude of breaking or bending rules.
Moreover, the cultural norm of unity in diversity is another aspect of this mindset. Many Indians believe that "bhai hai apna" (brother is every human being). This belief encourages a sense of unity and brotherhood among people, often transcending personal or social boundaries. However, it can also lead to abuse and rejection by non-believers, manifesting in the behavior of some individuals towards others.
It's important to note that this mindset is not universal among all Indians. While many people share this belief, there are also those who pride themselves on following the law and maintaining order. These varying perspectives contribute to the vibrant and complex fabric of Indian society.
Conclusion
The cultural norms in India, such as the “Fear of God” and the belief in “rules are made to be broken”, are deeply ingrained in the lives of most Indians. These norms shape individual behaviors, social interactions, and attitudes towards law and religion. Understanding and respecting these cultural norms can provide valuable insights into the complexities of Indian society and help foster better communication and mutual understanding.
By acknowledging and respecting these norms, individuals and communities can work together towards building a more harmonious and inclusive society. Furthermore, recognizing these cultural practices can help in developing more effective strategies to address the challenges that arise from them, such as promoting ethical behavior in religious contexts and ensuring road safety.