Differences between India and Nepal
While crossing the border, immediately some things change.
As India and Nepal are countries that are similar in so many ways, it would be hard to take them apart. But history says differently. Before, Nepal had some issues with India. I think that only the fact, that there are mountains, made Nepal. But in any way, there are differences not only in climate and displacement but also in culture. I decided to break them down. Still, these are just a few, very few.
1. Food
I know, I’m writing too much about food but who doesn’t like it. India’s cuisine is wide as India is. Nepal, in another way, has many different cultures of cuisines – Tibetan, Nevari, and others which you can often meet in the main cities of Nepal. I was very surprised when I got to know that many families are eating almost the same thing every day. And they love it. Of course, I’m not saying that everyone does, I am just saying that it is normal for them.
India
India has various types of food. From the sweetest desserts to the spiciest curries. And much more. In India, you can find all kinds of bread and sauces made especially for each of them. India is big and every state has its own cuisine.
Nepal
Here you will find momo and chaumin (noodles). Those are the most common snacks. For breakfast, lunch and dinner; rice with dal (dal bhat), tarkari (vegetables, mostly potato), chicken, and many different sauces.
2. Casts
I’m not an expert but my mom was researching about it, asking women for their casts. After she was telling me stories about what she had discovered.
Nepal
In Nepal, there are many different tribes, which are not included in any 4 main casts of the traditional Hindu Varna System which came from India and still works here in Nepal. So then we have in Nepal this situation – 4 main varnas (casts) and many other ‘casts’ which are in fact just jatis (tribes).
Here is an interesting fact from Nepal:
When I was in school the children often asked me many questions. Instead of asking me my second name, they asked me, what cast I am.
In Nepal in 1983, Hindu Varna System definied by Malla Kings in ‘Muluki Ain’ act, was abolished which made the right of all people equal. But in fact we don’t see it around…
The question is still important, but mostly, they just ask – Who are your parents? – What is your tribe? – Where are you from?
India
In India people are not asking you for cast so often as many of them finding it obsolete.
3. Prices
There is also one small difference that is quite important if you travel. When you go to any shop or supermarket you need to check the prize of the object and it isn’t easy as it looks. In India, many people will take more from you if they can.
India
In India almost every product has a serial number, date of production and a price, at the seal of the packaging. And if not, then there is a price on the wrapping.
Nepal
But in Nepal, stamps of a serial number are not always present. Then there could be a price on a package and sometimes there is no price so you need to know them.
4. Music
While seating in a bus, being irritated each time I hear my name in a song I had found another difference. I could not compare Indian music to Nepali.
India
As I said before India is big and has a wide range of different music cultures that have an old roots of tradition.
Nepal
In one way the music here is more modern.
5. Clothes
While wondering trough Kathmandu I noticed some differences in outfits, comparing to India. I looked only at women but I’m sure there are also differences in gents outfits.
India
One of the most popular and traditional outfits is Saree. Its look is casual and often beautiful. Surprisingly often, women wear it even, to do works in the garden. Beside this, there are also many other well-known outfits like Salwar Kameez.
Nepal
The most common outfit is Salwar Kameez. It is a complete of a long shirt with a shading on the side with pants and peace of cloth to wear around your neck. They also wear a Saree but mostly on special occasions. Most people are dressing in a modern way.
