Saturday, May 21, 2011

What caste you are?

Hi All,
India is the country full of castes. Each corner has a new caste and different culture. Sometimes it makes us strong and many times it breaks us into pieces. I don't want to go in detail about it as I hate to talk about the caste system.
I just wanted to share a recent experience with you all.
Our family is never bothered about the caste. We have never given more importance to it. Some may feel odd or may not like it, but its the fact. 
Thats why I never thought of teaching my kids about what caste we are.
The other day when we were waiting for the bus in the bus stop, an old lady started talking to my daughter. I have seen the lady in our area, but don't know her personally. So I just allowed my daughter to talk with her.(My daughter loves to talk to old people or young babies, she feels good to talk to them.)
Suddenly that lady asked my daughter "what caste you are?" My daughter was confused. She could not answer the question, but after thinking a while, she told I am an INDIAN!!! 
That lady was ready with the next question, I explained her that my daughter doesn't know what the caste is, It was like a big shock for her.
I was happy with my daughter's answer, but it put me into few questions:
I am married to another caste, and I am sure my kids will face many problems in the future, but I don't want to put any pressure on them now.
Is it really necessary to make the children aware of our caste?  Have I done the right thing? 
Please share your views here.

Keep smiling,