Yesterday was Karvachauth, which most Indian women observe, whereas Nepalese Hindus do not. I am an atheist, while my wife is an agnostic. I have never forced my Hindu beliefs — mind you, I grew up in a Catholic school, and so she did — on her or the children as well. I feel that we live in a multicultural society where individuals can freely choose their beliefs and practices. Our diverse backgrounds, though we are from Nepal, and personal choices contribute to the rich tapestry of culture, tradition, religion, and globalization that exists in our world today. The intricate links between culture, traditions, and religion have long formed the bedrock of societies, shaping our values, beliefs, and interactions. In the modern era, the dynamics of globalization further weave into this tapestry, adding layers of complexity and enrichment. Through personal reflection and observation, this piece delves into these multifaceted relationships and their impact on our contemporary world.
The Foundational Trio: Culture, Tradition, and Religion:
Culture embodies shared values, beliefs, and practices. Within this, religion often dictates traditions—rituals and ceremonies passed down through generations. Dashain in Nepalese means different than that in either Northern or Southern India. Think of Diwali’s universal themes in Hinduism or the widespread cultural resonance of Christmas in Christianity.
Personal Reflections on Tradition and Religion:
My own experiences with cultural and religious practices have highlighted their profound influences. Yet, as my world expanded and I met people from diverse backgrounds, I discerned that while our religious tenets might differ, the essence of our traditions often resonated with universal values like unity and love. That’s what it should matter. For me, wishing someone a Merry Christmas was equally important as saying Eid Mubarak to a Muslim colleague or Happy Dusherra to an Indian friend. I never allowed my beliefs to limit my ability to appreciate and respect the beliefs of others. “Happy Holidays!” Come on! Instead, I embraced the opportunity to learn about different cultures and religions, recognizing that diversity enriches our understanding of the world and fosters empathy and acceptance. In doing so, I found that celebrating and acknowledging the traditions of others only deepened my own connection to humanity as a whole, and if we could shun those differences, the conflict in Israel-Gaza would have never happened (more on that later).
The Fluidity of Culture in a Globalized Era:
In the heart of this digital age, cultures and traditions are no longer static. The global melting pot, evident in cosmopolitan cities worldwide, showcases a mosaic of traditions transcending their geographical origins. Technology, particularly the internet, has been instrumental in this. Platforms like YouTube and social media offer glimpses into foreign traditions, often leading to their integration into our personal lives. I have learned more about others through social media.
Evolving Traditions in a Global Context:
As cultures merge, traditions adapt. Since ancient India, yoga has taken on global forms like “hot yoga” or “aerial yoga.” While highlighting adaptability, such evolutions also raise questions about authenticity and the risk of commercializing deep-rooted practices.
Challenges and Triumphs of Cultural Fluidity:
The global dissemination of traditions isn’t without its challenges. Authenticity debates often arise, and the risk of diluting or misrepresenting traditions is real. Yet, the brighter side shines with stories of mutual respect and deeper intercultural understanding. This blending fosters a global community, chipping away at prejudices and building bridges of unity.
The Role of Diasporas in Cultural Synthesis:
Migrant communities are often at the forefront of this global cultural dance. They bring traditions from their homelands, blending them with the customs of their new environments. This synthesis, like American Indians celebrating Thanksgiving with both turkey and traditional Indian dishes, enriches the global cultural landscape. (I tried tandoori turkey this time, which was amazing.)
Conclusion:
In the grand tapestry of human experience, culture, tradition, and religion have intertwined for millennia. Today, globalization adds vibrant patterns to this fabric. As traditions travel and cultures converge, we are reminded of our shared humanity, where the core values often remain remarkably aligned. In this rich diversity lies a deeper unity and a testament to the universality of the human spirit. Next time, let’s invite someone from the other community to showcase why we fast, why we wear Hizab, why we have turkey on the dining table, and why we celebrate Navratri, where we worship goddesses for nine days and end it worshipping a male god on the tenth day. Let’s embrace the differences and celebrate together.
Thinking Out Loud 