What is my Culture? 

Written by Geetika Kullampalle

Throughout my life, my family has always placed a lot of importance on spiritual gatherings and teachings, especially those centered around Saibaba and Sarath Babuji, who we affectionately call Guruji. At first, I didn't really feel connected to these spiritual stories and practices. It felt like I was on the outside looking in when it came to my own culture's spiritual traditions. This feeling of being disconnected was a big part of the identity crisis I faced, as I tried to make sense of and truly absorb the teachings of Saibaba and Guruji. However, everything started to change for me during a summer camp at a Saibaba temple located on the peaceful Harithachala organic farm. This camp turned out to be a key moment in my spiritual journey. 

Being in a place that was just radiating with spiritual energy, I was drawn in by the morning rituals, especially the sunrise ceremonies that lit up Saibaba's idol. It felt like these ceremonies were revealing hidden truths and marking the start of a new understanding. The camp wasn't just about learning spiritual stuff; it was a deep dive into finding out who I am. It showed me the beauty in sharing experiences and being open about our vulnerabilities. The camp created a strong sense of belonging and community among everyone there, going beyond just learning and leading to the creation of a really strong bond that was all about our shared spiritual journey. This experience at the Saibaba temple camp on Harithachalla organic farm really became a part of my cultural heritage, highlighting how spirituality is a big part of who we are. In my family and the wider community, our devotion to Saibaba and Guruji stands for a legacy of faith, resilience, and shared wisdom that's been handed down through the generations. It's at the heart of our cultural practices and beliefs. Getting involved in these spiritual ceremonies and teachings helped me reconnect with my ancestors, acting like a bridge to the past and guiding light for the future. This journey into spirituality and community didn't just help me understand Saibaba and Guruji's teachings better; it also confirmed my place in a culture that values spiritual growth and togetherness. 

Deciding to really dive into my Indian heritage is more than just about where I was born; it's a choice I'm making to connect with a culture that's full of awesome traditions and values that have helped shape who I am. It's like I'm choosing to be part of something bigger, something that's all about appreciating the amazing variety of languages and the super cool festivals that bring everyone together. These aren't just old traditions; they're a way of life that keeps communities close, giving us all a sense of belonging and keeping our culture alive. Indian fashion, with its rich palette of colors, intricate designs, and diverse styles, has been a significant cultural identifier for me. The traditional attire, including ghagras and the shimmering gold jewelry that adorns them, is more than just clothing; it is a form of self-expression and cultural pride. Wearing these outfits during festivals and special occasions is a celebration of my heritage, allowing me to connect with my ancestors' traditions while showcasing the beauty and diversity of Indian craftsmanship. The choice of fabric, color, and jewelry in Indian fashion is a testament to the country's artistic legacy and serves as a wearable form of storytelling, encapsulating the essence of my cultural identity.

By choosing to embrace my Indian culture, I'm not just going along with something I was born into. It's about actively being part of and contributing to a culture that really values togetherness and sharing life's moments. It means I get to help keep our traditions growing and evolving. It's about showing respect, feeling proud of where I come from, and making sure that being Indian is something active and vibrant in my life. It turns being Indian into something I'm really proud of and have chosen for myself, showing everyone how cool and inclusive our culture really is. 

Growing up, dance and music were not merely forms of entertainment for me but were vibrant expressions of my cultural heritage, deeply rooted in Bollywood and Kathak dance traditions. As a child, I was utterly captivated by the complex footwork, expressive gestures, and storytelling prowess of Kathak, alongside the dynamic and colorful narratives in Bollywood dance. These art forms became powerful channels for me to express my emotions, celebrate my heritage, and connect profoundly with my cultural roots.

The music accompanying these dances spoke a universal language, touching my soul and enabling me to convey emotions that went beyond the scope of mere words. The rhythms and melodies, steeped in centuries of tradition and emotion, became integral to my identity, shaping my understanding of myself and my role within the cultural fabric of my community. My exploration into contemporary dance introduced me to a new dimension of artistic expression, drawing me towards artists like J.Cole and King Von. This journey not only broadened my musical landscape but also allowed me to create a fusion that combined the vibrant beats and compelling narratives of Bollywood and Tollywood songs with the raw emotion and lyrical intricacy of Western music.

This blend formed a unique and personal musical taste that transcended conventional boundaries. By merging elements from these varied music genres and dance forms, I developed an eclectic and inclusive artistic identity that celebrated diversity and nurtured a deep connection with both my heritage and the wider global music community. This creative amalgamation underscored my capacity to discover unity in diversity, illustrating how different cultural expressions can unite to create something truly distinctive and personal. This journey reflects my ongoing commitment to embracing diversity and fostering an environment where varied cultural expressions are celebrated and integrated harmoniously.