Humanity can dissolve geographical boundaries between countries
Geographical boundaries can create physical separations between people, but they don’t necessarily divide humanity on a deeper level.
I recently happened to be at Colombo -SriLanka for receiving Asian Iconic award for providing green and sustainable products and services in Construction Industry. When I met other awardees from other SAARC countries, I noticed that boundaries can create physical separations between people, but they don’t necessarily divide humanity on a deeper level.
In this article just taking our country India & beautiful country Maldives.
India and the Maldives share several cultural traditions and similarities, influenced by their geographical proximity and historical ties. Here are some common traditions and cultural aspects between the two countries:
- Religion: The Maldives has a significant historical influence from Hinduism and Buddhism, although today it is predominantly an Islamic country. India is known for its diverse religious landscape, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, and more. The historical spread of Buddhism from India to the Maldives has left its mark, even though it’s no longer practiced in the Maldives.
- Festivals: While religious practices differ today, some cultural elements still overlap. For example, both countries celebrate Islamic festivals like Eid due to their Muslim populations. Shared South Asian traditions influence festive foods, clothing, and community gatherings during celebrations.
- Cuisine: The use of spices, coconut, and fish is common in the cuisines of both India and the Maldives. Dishes like curry-based foods and rice are staples in both cultures. Traditional flatbreads like roti are also common in meals across both nations.
- Arts and Handicrafts: Both countries have a rich tradition of arts, such as handwoven textiles, lacquerware, and wooden carvings. The Maldives and India both celebrate dance and music as integral parts of their culture. Maldivian music and dance, such as the Bodu Beru (big drum), show influences from Indian and African cultures.
- Languages: The Maldivian language, Dhivehi, has many words borrowed from Sanskrit, Hindi, and Urdu, due to ancient ties with India. The script and vocabulary in Dhivehi reflect the historical influence of Indian languages.
- Family Values: Both cultures place high importance on family values, respect for elders, and community bonds. Family gatherings and social interactions are integral parts of daily life in both countries.
- Traditional Clothing: Traditional clothing in both countries shows some similarities. In the Maldives, the Libaas (a dress worn by women) is similar to the sari in its elegance and significance. The use of intricate patterns, bright colors, and hand-stitched details is prominent in the traditional attire of both regions.
- Marine and Seafaring Traditions: Given their geographic locations, both India and the Maldives have a strong tradition of fishing and seafaring. Ancient trade routes connected the Maldives with the western coasts of India, promoting the exchange of goods, culture, and traditions.
These shared traditions highlight the deep-rooted cultural connections between India and the Maldives, shaped by centuries of interaction and mutual influence.
While geographical boundaries can create physical and sometimes political separations, the essence of humanity—our shared experiences, challenges, and aspirations—transcends these divisions. What are your thoughts on this? Do you feel that certain aspects of human connection are particularly strong despite geographical boundaries.
Come let us become GREEN WARRIORS and dilute the boundaries .
To know more about Green Warrior concept, do write to us balaji@bptonline.in or whatapp me on 9980789618
Dr Balaji Singh
Founder & CEO of BPT group of companies
India
