Time in India is often divided into two main categories – sacred and secular time. Sacred time is associated with religious and spiritual practices and customs while secular time is concerned with daily life activities. Sacred time is characterized by various auspicious days, festivals, and rituals that are intertwined with cultural and religious beliefs. These events are carefully planned based on calculations of lunar and solar phases to coincide with the optimum time, resulting in an elaborate and elaborate schedule of rituals.
India follows a lunar calendar, and each month and day has its own significance. One of the most auspicious months in the lunar calendar is called Shravan, which is considered to be a special month for prayers, fasting, and giving offerings to deities. Moreover, the festival of Diwali is celebrated in the month of Kartik, which comes after Shravan, and near the winter solstice. During Diwali, people light up their houses with oil lamps, light up fireworks, and exchange sweets.
Secular time, on the other hand, is connected to the concept of punctuality, efficiency, productivity, and precision in daily life activities. In India, the work and business environment have been greatly influenced by the principles of punctuality and productivity. In recent years, India has become more Westernized and has adhered to the concept of time according to global standards. Today, people in India have become more punctual and time-oriented as they realize the importance of this factor in ensuring productivity and efficiency in their daily lives.
Time management is a vital component in ensuring that all daily activities are carried out promptly and accurately, from heading to work to school and performing household chores. In Indian households, punctuality is an essential principle that instills discipline and respect for time. While everyone is expected to be on time for their daily activities, it is important to note that being punctual doesn’t mean neglecting vital aspects of one’s personal or professional life.
Time in India is also reflected in the concept of ‘circa.’ This concept is the idea that the time concept is imprecise or unknown. For instance, if someone asks what time it is, instead of directly stating the precise time, people in India usually say ‘circa,’ meaning ‘around’ that time. This concept is rooted in traditional Indian philosophy, where being precise is not always considered an essential factor, as the philosophical focus is on the overall essence of the conversation, experience or situation.
In conclusion, India’s relationship with time is multifaceted, complex and deeply ingrained in its culture and lifestyle. It’s a combination of the sacred and secular time that highlights the importance of spirituality, customs, and discipline in daily life activities. While India’s traditional concept of time may be based on the idea of flexibility and a belief in the cyclical nature of time, today’s fast-paced lifestyle demands punctuality, efficiency, and productivity. Through these diverse interpretations and applications of time, India continues to showcase its unique and distinct history, culture, and traditions.