Every ethnicity has its own culture. Nepal features 126 caste/ethnic groups as per the 2011 census. But, over the years, traditionality is slowly fading away. It is actually a good thing. Why?

"Culture is the software of the mind" is a popular thought in sociology and anthropology. If I have to define culture simply, it is the lens through which we view the world. A common dissatisfaction of the modern youth with the older generation has always been the unquestioned execution of traditions, values and norms.

 

An interesting analogy was presented to me that summed up this concept. One day a young man saw a senior citizen performing a ritual at a nearby temple. He was fascinated by her activities and waited for her to complete her austerity. He then asked the citizen, ma'am, why did you perform this ritual? His question was reverted with another question. Son, why do you wash once you're done with your left hand?

 

One of the most popular disapproval of the older generation with the new is their disinterest and disconnect with their traditional culture. Modernisation is always a culprit in their eyes. But, analysing it logically, the older generation is to be blamed. A fellow classmate summed it up best, "You( addressing the older generation) installed democracy, freedom of speech and civil liberty. I am grateful for your sacrifice. But why is it a problem when I try to exercise it? If you had learnt the ethos of some norms and values, you would have discontinued it before we did."

 

The current young generation stood at a precarious crossroads. They modernised to fit in the new world, but the older generation questioned their traditional loyalty.

 

Slowly but steadily, this generation began to unearth historical pages and dive deeper into their cultural facet. Witnessing this neo-revolution with young grooms challenging traditional rituals, women being vocal regarding gender disparity and the ridiculousness of some values and traditions. They didn't just speak about it, but they began a new trend that shall become the new culture.

 

This generation is bringing it back better! They are learning traditional instruments to not just play old notes but create beautiful fusion. To be brides and grooms have developed a renewed interest in traditional attire. Old ornaments are seeing the light of day and even new shapes. Old street names are being revived, and there is a renewed interest in literature, architecture and the arts.

 

So, is this the end of the world?

 

No! The young don't have much experience on this Earth, but they have the power of connectivity, modern education, technology and the age-old human trait- curiosity. Above all, they have the older generation. They should stop seeing the young as a nuisance and help them understand their cultural roots, traditions and values using their modern knowledge, tools and techniques. They (the older generation) should guide the young with their wit and experience and allow them to grow and flourish. 

 

What the younger generation must do?

What the older generation must do?

Invest their time to learn more about ones ancestry and heritage

Teach the younger generation at best about their culture and heritage

Be more friendly to cultural concepts and traditions

Gently aware the younger generation about the traditions and rituals

Communicate their disapproval about certain cultural norms and values with the older generation

Logically analyse cultural norms and values

Participate in rituals and cultural events

Encourage the younger generation to participate in cultural events

Listen to the suggestions and experience of the older generation so that you don’t end up making the same mistakes

Be open minded to the disapproval of the younger generation

Be aware of cultural appropriation

Do not see the younger generation and their ideas a threat

 

The current enthusiasm of the younger generation toward their history, culture and tradition is a welcoming sight. We must encourage the young to pursue this path and unearth many more lost elements. More efforts should be made from all sectors to help smoothen their journey.