What is culture ? :- Kamal Dhakal




 Culture is the overall form of lifestyle, tradition, values ​​and beliefs of a particular society, community or nation. It has a combination of different aspects. And, the combination that determines the identity and social structure of the society. Culture is related to people's daily life and various dimensions. Which also reflects his thinking, behavior, and mutual relationship.


Main elements of culture:

Language: Language is an integral part of culture. It is not only a medium of communication but also a carrier of history, tradition, and knowledge.


Religious Beliefs and Customs: The religious beliefs and traditions of any society determine the cultural form of that society. They are manifested in religious rituals, worship, festivals, and rituals.


Art and Literature: Art, literature, music, dance, painting and sculpture are the means of aesthetic and creative expression of the society.


Customs and traditions

The special customs and traditions of any society give a unique identity to that society. For example, marriage, birth, death, and other social rituals.


Food and clothing:

Food and clothing according to different geographical and climatic conditions are also an important part of culture.


Social Structure:

The structure of family, society, and communities and the relationship system in them also determines culture.


Beliefs and Values:

The beliefs, values, ethics, and rules of conduct prevalent in the society also form the form of culture.


Importance of culture

Identity: Culture is the identity of any society or nation. This makes the society different and unique from others.


Social Unity: A common culture strengthens the sense of unity and cooperation among the members of society.


Preservation of tradition: Culture is a means of preservation and transmission of traditions, knowledge, and values.


Culture is the living heritage of society, which gives meaning to people's lives and makes society a pioneer.


Nepali Culture and Modernity

Nepali culture and modernity are a landscape in which there is a complex but fascinating balance between each other. Nepal is a country of diverse ethnic groups, languages, and religious beliefs. There is a mixture of Hindu, Buddhist, Kirant, and other religious traditions in the culture here. The depth of culture is facilitated by rituals, festivals, traditional costumes, folk art, music, and dance.


In the traditional lifestyle of Nepal, marriages, births, deaths, and other important events are celebrated with special rituals. Festivals like Dashain, Tihar, Chhath, Maghe Sankranti and Teej bring joy and social unity to the Nepalese lifestyle. Every ethnic group has its own characteristics and traditions, which make Nepali culture more colorful.


However, over time, the impact of modernity and technology has brought changes in Nepali society. Especially in urban areas, the influence of western lifestyle is increasing. The young generation is imbibing western music, fashion and lifestyle. The expansion of education and access to technology has brought great changes in the society. The use of social networks, smartphones and the Internet are having a major impact on the lifestyle and thinking of the young generation.


In this context, the question of how to maintain the balance of Nepali culture and modernity may arise. On the one hand, modernity is making the society progressive and on the other hand, the need to preserve traditional values ​​and customs is felt. An attempt is being made to create a new type of cultural identity by blending modernity and tradition.


This confluence of modernity and culture has brought new possibilities to Nepali society. For example, efforts are being made to make traditional folk music universal with the help of modern technology. In this way, Nepali youths are able to compete in the modern world without forgetting their cultural roots.


However, maintaining this balance is challenging. In some cases, Western influence threatens to erode traditional values. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain harmony between tradition and modernity through education and culture.


In the end, Nepali culture and modernity can be complementary without contradicting each other. By respecting traditional values ​​and customs, embracing modern technology and ideology, Nepali society can move towards a balanced and prosperous future. Therefore, let's hope that Nepali culture and modernity together will take the country to new heights.


Western influence and impact:

Nepali culture is very old and rich. In which there is a mixture of different ethnic groups, languages ​​and religious traditions. However, in the last few decades, the increasing presence of western influence has brought significant changes in Nepali culture.


A major source of Western influence is technology and media. Internet, television, and social media have widely spread western lifestyle, fashion, and musical styles in Nepal. Especially in urban areas, the young generation has started imbibing western music, movies, and fashion. It has challenged traditional dress, folk music, and dance.


The western education system and language use have also brought changes in the culture. Nepali language and literature are being neglected due to increasing importance of English language and western education. Although the influence of Western education has helped develop scientific thinking, innovation, and entrepreneurship, the importance of traditional knowledge and values ​​is declining.


Western food culture has also had a great influence. The popularity of fast food and western food is overtaking the traditional Nepalese cuisine. It also has a negative impact on health.


However, taking the Western influence as a completely negative one

Post a Comment

0 Comments