The Importance Of The Indian Cultural Tradition In India

The Indian cultural tradition is unique. The notions of dharma (normative order), karma (personal moral commitment) and jati (caste) as the hierarchical principles of social stratification are basic to Indian culture ( Kalathil, 2015). The values of dharma, karma and jati continue to guide social and cultural activ¬ities to a large extent. However, the contemporary India has witnessed basic structural changes in economic and political fields. The traditional value system has lost its ground to a considerable extent as the jati has acquired a new form, and it is no more an effective mechanism of division of labor and status determination.

The uniqueness of the Indian culture does not simply refer to its esoteric nature. It requires a thorough study in terms of its history. Absorption and assimilation characterized social and cultural change. Aryans and Dravidians lived together. Hindus and Muslims lived in close proximity – socially and culturally. Drinking alcohol is not considered good in Indian society that is why in company dinner or meetings people avoid drinking alcohol (Heitzman and Worden, 1996).

In India a flexible approach is important and it is often best to be guided by the person with whom you are meeting. Etiquette requires a handshake, although some Indians may use the namaste, a common greeting involving pressing your palms together with fingers pointing upwards, and accompanied by a slight bow. When entering a business meeting, always greet the most senior