Describe a traditional festival (or tradition) that is important in your country.

Part 3 Follow Up Questions

1. Are traditional holidays disappearing?
   Traditional holidays are not disappearing completely, but they are undergoing transformations in
   response to societal changes. Modernization, globalization, and shifting cultural dynamics have
   influenced the way people celebrate these holidays. While some traditions may be modified or
   adapted, many traditional holidays still hold importance and continue to be celebrated, albeit with
   variations. Efforts are being made to preserve cultural heritage and promote the observance of
   traditional holidays through educational programs, cultural initiatives, and community events.
   Overall, traditional holidays may evolve, but they remain an integral part of cultural identity and
   provide opportunities for connection and celebration.
2. Do children like to learn about traditional festivals?
   Yes, many children have a natural curiosity and interest in learning about traditional festivals.
   Exploring the customs, rituals, and stories behind these celebrations can be fascinating and
   engaging for them. Learning about traditional festivals helps children understand and appreciate
   their cultural heritage, fosters a sense of belonging, and allows them to participate in age-old
   traditions that have been passed down through generations.
3. Is music important to traditional festivals?
   Yes, music plays a significant role in traditional festivals. It adds a vibrant and festive atmosphere to
   the celebrations, setting the mood and enhancing the overall experience. Traditional music often
   accompanies specific rituals and performances during these festivals, carrying cultural significance
   and creating a sense of unity and joy among participants. It serves as a powerful medium to
   connect people with their heritage and preserve the cultural traditions associated with the festivals.
4. What is the importance of traditional festivals?
   I think traditional festivals fulfil three functions. They connect us to our roots, our culture and
   our origins, giving us a sense of identity. Secondly, they bring families and friends together and
   lastly, they help us forget about our worries and stress.
5. What’s the difference between festivals now and in the past?
   I think the main difference between festivals now and in the past is the purpose of celebration.
   Earlier people celebrated festivals for a purpose, but now people have forgotten the meaning
   behind the festivals. Festivals are only celebrated for joy and merriment.
6. Do you think western festivals like Christmas are replacing traditional festivals in your
   country?
   Yes, one of the influences of western movies and Hollywood has been the coming of western
   festivals like Christmas and Halloween. From the past two-three years, even I decorate a tree and
   ask for gifts from my parents on Christmas. Similarly, in these past few years, I have seen children
   going for trick or treating on Halloween in my neighborhood.
7. Do you think it is wrong for children not to celebrate traditional festivals?
   I wish children today are as passionate about celebrating traditional festivals as they are about
   celebrating western festivals. But I don’t think it is wrong. I think festivals are about fun and
   merriment and it does not matter, which festivals they are celebrating as long as they are enjoying
   themselves. Is it important for children to learn about traditional festivals at school?
   Yes, I think it is certainly important for children to learn about festivals at school. Earlier children
   learnt about festivals from their grandparents as they lived in joint families, but nowadays there is
   no one to teach them about them. So, schools should definitely teach children about them.
8. Do children like to learn about traditional festivals?
   Surely, there are many exciting stories and legends behind most traditional festivals. Children love
   hearing stories and so they love learning about traditional festivals. Moreover, children have a
   curiosity about everything. I remember when I was a child, I used to keep asking questions and my
   parents used to get tired answering my questions.
9. Why do people hold events to celebrate?
   People hold events to celebrate for different reasons. First, it is to commemorate our successes and
   victories in our lives. Secondly, it helps to strengthen our connections with our loved ones, our
   friends and neighbours by bringing us all together. People also celebrate to remember our past
   traditions. And finally, sometimes celebrations are just about having fun and relieving our stress.
10. Are traditional festivals disappearing?
    I don’t think they are disappearing but they are not celebrated with the same zeal and enthusiasm
    that they were in the past. Moreover, for most people celebrations are about fun and merriment
    rather than remembering our traditions and culture.
11. Is music important in traditional festivals?
    I don’t think there is a single festival without music especially in Indian culture. I think any festival
    without music is incomplete. Music frees our mind and it also helps us bond with our loved ones.
12. Do you think good food and drinks are important for celebrations?
    Just like music, I believe festivals and celebrations are incomplete without good food and drinks.
    Listening to music and eating good food is the best way to make our mind happy and forget our
    worries. It takes us away from reality in a sense and thus makes us happy.