Traditional rituals and customs among the people of Himachal have been undergoing transformations due to modernisation and market forces. What is your opinion on this statement and how do you think these social practices could be saved from extinction ? (HPAS Mains Question Paper 2022 – GS 1, Q.14)
Himachal Pradesh’s ancient rites and traditions have been transformed due to modernisation. Modernisation has influenced many parts of their life, including their dietary preferences, clothes, education, social customs, and religious views.
Increased exposure to the outside world, helped by increasing access to technology and communication networks, is one of the primary elements contributing to this transition. As more individuals from Himachal Pradesh relocate to cities for work or school, they are exposed to various cultural customs and lifestyles. This exposure may result in the acceptance of new businesses and traditions, as well as a departure from established ones.
Some examples from the state of Himachal Pradesh, where traditional rituals and customs have been transforming due to modernisation:
1. Marriage traditions: In Himachal Pradesh, traditional weddings include several customs and rituals, such as the exchanging of gifts, ceremonies, and feasting. Nevertheless, due to modernisation, some of these rituals have changed, and new habits have been introduced. Some families, for example, prefer a more Western-style wedding with less traditional rituals.
2. Festivals: For ages, several Himachal Pradesh holidays, such as Diwali, Holi, and Navratri, have been celebrated with distinct traditions and rituals. Some of these traditions, however, are being supplanted by new behaviours as a result of modernity, such as the use of firecrackers and LED lights during Diwali.
3. Himachal Pradesh’s traditional dress includes garments such as the kurta-pajama, churidar, and ghagra-choli. Yet, as the world becomes more contemporary, western clothing patterns and brands are becoming more popular, particularly among the younger population.
4. Himachal Pradesh has a diverse culinary culture, including traditional dishes such as siddur, babru, and chha gosht. But, as technology advances, fast food and processed meals become more popular, potentially threatening traditional cuisine.
Some examples from the state of Himachal Pradesh, where traditional rituals and customs have been transforming due to market forces:
1. The celebration of Kullu Dussehra is one example of ancient rituals and practices in Himachal Pradesh that are changing owing to commercial factors. Kullu Dussehra is a famous celebration in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu area that draws thousands of visitors annually. In recent years, the event has seen considerable modifications, with a concentration on commerce and tourist development. The economic parts of the festival, such as the selling of souvenirs and the staging of cultural activities, have eclipsed the traditional rituals linked with the celebration, such as the worship of the local deities.
2. The original barter system has been supplanted by the use of money for commerce as market forces have extended and a cash-based economy has been introduced. This has resulted in changes to the tribal groups’ social and economic structures, as well as an influence on the environment since the new cash-based economy has resulted in increasing exploitation of natural resources.
3. Himachal Pradesh’s traditional handicrafts, such as weaving, embroidery, and woodcarving, have been marketed and adapted to the demands of the tourist industry, with an emphasis on mass manufacturing and cost-cutting. This has resulted in changes to traditional handicraft processes and designs, as well as the social and economic systems of the communities that make them.
The traditional rituals and practices have been going extinct in the state of Himachal Pradesh. They could be saved from extinction by adopting the following measures:
1. It requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including the local communities, the government, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
2. Involve local communities: Traditional rites and traditions should be actively preserved by local communities. Hosting community events and festivals that highlight traditional customs, encouraging young people to learn from elderly members, and establishing chances for cultural exchange and conversation might all be part of this.
3. Promote cultural tourism: By giving economic incentives to local communities, cultural tourism may assist in preserving traditional rites and customs. This might include creating sustainable tourism programmes that promote traditional methods and allow tourists to learn from local experts.
4. Give education and training: It is critical to offer education and training opportunities for young people to guarantee that traditional rites and practices are handed down to future generations. This might involve incorporating traditions into school curricula, creating apprenticeship and mentoring programmes, and giving training courses to interested people.
5. Offer financial assistance: Maintaining ancient rites and customs may be resource-intensive, and financial aid may be required to ensure survival. This might include financing for cultural groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), as well as financial incentives for those who actively engage in preserving traditional customs.
