In some parts of the world traditional festivals and celebrations have disappeared or are disappearing. What problems is this causing? What measures could be taken to counter this situation?
Undeniably, customs and rituals have taken a back seat in the wake of globalization, which is bound to result in several complications, making it imperative to discover a panacea to overcome this challenge.
The complications precipitating owing to cultural practices fading from public memory include people getting detached from roots: the youth have lost the sense of identity, and connection with their ancestral knowledge, and If it does not stop, the cultural legacy will be lost. Likewise, upcoming generations will be oblivious of rationale influencing commemoration of special occasions, and observing rituals - that are based on climate and geography - resulting in catastrophic outcomes: traditional ways of forging bonds among inhabitants will be lost.
However, this scenario can be countered by adopting some prudent measures, like people must start narrating their native history to their little ones and help them comprehend the relevance and significance of celebrating festivals and rituals. Moreover, they need to ensure that they enjoy festivities with their families, relatives, cousins, neighbors and communities. This could help add excitement and flair to events and practices; the youth are more inclined to engage with occasions that invite them to explore, and enjoy moments of togetherness.
Additionally, communities must also play their part by organising special happenings to mark the occasions of traditional and cultural relevance such as communal carnivals - food, dance and fashion shows in traditional attire, get-togethers, taking out processions and marches. For instance, Japanese have started celebrating their traditional new year by holding an array of events that primarily involves youngsters, affording them an opportunity to familiarize with endemic culture.
To conclude, this disappearance of indigenous festivals has become a pressing concern and might cause loss of culture, and eventually, communal identity, but these can be reinvigorated through education, and communal celebrations.
