1. I NDIA A Cultural Glimpse

2. D IFFERING C ULTURES 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.

3. L ANGUAGE 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.

4. R ELIGION There are four major religions that were founded in India. Hinduism Buddhism Jainism Sikhism Today, the majority of Indian people are Hindu, but many practice other faiths, including Christianity and Islam.

5. 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.

6. M USIC 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. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8CnhcGpmH9 Y&feature=player_detailpage

7. C USTOMS 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.

8. C USTOMS 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.

9. T HE N AMESAKE BY JHUMPA LAHIRI Essential Questions : 1. How is identity formed and maintained? 2. How does a name define a person? 3. Is it possible to reconcile or assimilate two cultures without conflict? 4. How do traditions, the past, and history inform the present?

10. E SSENTIAL UNDERSTANDINGS