The Dawn: Awakening Indian Spirit
My day as an Indian starts early with the first rays of the sun. The early morning routine of many Indians, especially in the rural parts of the country, begins with the traditional practice of Surya Namaskar or Sun Salutation. It is a series of 12 yoga postures, performed in a specific sequence, to give a great cardiovascular workout. The yoga routine is followed by a small prayer thanking the Sun God for the new day.
After the workout, I take a bath, which in many Indian homes is associated with a form of purification. Following this, I start my day with a hot cup of tea or coffee, a quintessential part of any Indian household.
Breakfast: A Regional Affair
Breakfast in India varies greatly from region to region. In the North, it could be Parathas stuffed with various fillings along with yogurt and pickle, whereas in the South it could be Idli, Dosa or Upma. I usually have a hearty breakfast, which is a blend of both North and South Indian cuisines.
Post breakfast, I engage in a quick catch-up with the daily news, either through a newspaper or news app. It gives me an overview of what's happening around the world and in my country.
Work Life: The Indian Hustle
Like millions of other Indians, I too spend a significant part of my day at work. Be it a traditional office set-up or the increasingly popular work-from-home scenario, work forms a crucial part of the daily routine. I usually spend my mornings attending meetings, responding to emails, and planning for the rest of the day.
Despite the work pressure, we Indians believe in the concept of 'Chai-Pe-Charcha' or discussions over tea. This little break is an integral part of my workday, providing a breather from the hustle and bustle of the work life.
Lunch: A Mix of Flavours
Lunch in my household is a simple affair, yet full of flavours. It usually consists of a balanced meal with rice or chapati, lentil soup (dal), a vegetable dish and yogurt. A siesta follows the lunch, a practice quite prevalent in the Indian culture, especially in the hot summer months.
The Evening Rituals
Evenings are usually a time for leisure. I spend this time either pursuing a hobby or catching up with friends and family. The concept of 'Evening Snacks' is quite popular in India. It's a time when the family gathers around for a light snack, accompanied by tea or coffee.
Dinner: The Family Gathering
Dinner is the time when the entire family comes together. The meal is more elaborate compared to lunch, with multiple dishes served. Post dinner, the family spends time together, discussing their day, watching TV or sometimes playing board games.
Night-time Rituals: Preparing for a Good Sleep
Just as the day starts early, it also ends early. I usually wind up my day by reading a book or meditating, practices that help me sleep better. Before I go to bed, I often reflect on the day gone by and plan for the next day.
So, this is a glimpse of my daily routine as an Indian. Despite the diversity and varying routines across the country, the essence of Indian culture and values remains the same, making everyday life in India a unique and enriching experience.
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