Traditions of India

Traditional Dress: Sari Wedding Sari: North India Modern Sari: South India

Mehndi Mehndi: the application of henna (plant dye) to the hands and feet, as temporary decoration, usually for wedding ceremonies and special festivals Pre-wedding ritual: Fun-filled event with the bride’s family, held a few days before the wedding at the bride’s home. A professional henna tattoo artist gives the bride an intricate design. Sometimes the groom’s name is secretly drawn into the design Lots of singing, dancing Women usually wear bright colors like yellow and pink.

Arranged Marriages Marriage is organized by the parents of the bride and groom, who consult a match-maker Match-maker: an elderly woman who is connected to many families Criteria for family: Age, religion, family status, astrological sign, education, values, and physical appearance

Arranged Marriage Customs Exchange of photographs Meeting of prospective spouses “seeing the girl” Mangni: Engagement The bride’s family accepts engagement, brings gifts and jewelry to groom’s family Divorce rate in India: 1.1% Rise of self-arranged marriages

Indian Religions: Hinduism “Oldest living religion” Many diverse traditions and beliefs, no single founder God: believe everything is god and has divine energy Henotheistic: devotion to one main god (Shiva), but acceptance of other gods Karma: law of “cause and effect” Yoga: meditative practices and paths to reach spiritual enlightenment Third largest religion in the world.

Indian Religions: Sikhism Founded on the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji “Realization of truth is higher than anything else. Higher still is truthful living.” Monotheistic: belief in one god Salvation: humans should try to achieve a spiritual union with god through mindful meditation Balance of work, charity, and worship Fifth largest organized religion in the world

Traditional Indian Foods

Indian Dishes Mainly vegetarian food Hinduism Most common dishes: Curries Paneer Tandoori Dal (lentils) Gobi (potatoes): Aloo Gobi Chana Masala (chick peas) Dishes are served with: Chapati, Roti, Naan, Rice

Indian Food Customs Breakfast: Tea or coffee with roti, dosas, and a vegetarian dish Lunch: biggest meal of the day Rice or rotis 2-3 kinds of vegetables Curd and pickled vegetables Sweet foods eaten after meal Dinner: Much lighter than lunch Followed by sweets and tea Meals are usually eaten while sitting on the floor Food is eaten with hands Fingers and thumb of the right hand Roti (breads) are used to scoop foods Thali: large plate with many food samplings Banana leaves: used on special occasions or to serve hot food

My Trip: New Delhi

My Trip:Taj Mahal

My Trip: Cooking