CULTURE CARDS for Mumbai…and for Anyone with an Interest in India’s Changing Cultures

(PRWEB) October 16, 2006 -- Recently released in Mumbai, India, this new interactive educational card game all about the city’s cultures, history, geography, religions and special places is now available at local bookstores and distributors of educational toys.

Created by the International Centre for Ethnographic Studies in response to the unsettling rapid globalization of Mumbai and other urban centers in India. “We have only been engaged in research here for a little over four years, but during that time we’ve seen tremendous change in the city toward becoming more western in character, and less concerned about “keeping” cultural identities.” A desire to look “fair and lovely…or handsome” reveals much about a desire to not even be identified as Indian!

In addition, even though they are Indians, it doesn’t mean that much is known at all about the amalgamation of other cultures that comprise the city. For example, food enjoyed in a North Indian home may seem unsatisfying to a South Indian, devoid of their usual complement of rice. Ways of celebrating festival days, respecting family members, and the place and position of women in the culture are as diverse as the landscape of India and are explored in the game.

The intent of Culture Cards™ is to be a fun way for Indians—and those who are interested in knowing something about their Indian friends and co-workers—to break down the barriers and sometimes the suspicion that separates cultures in Mumbai. And as globalization creeps into the city and the lust for power and material goods seem to be the only things driving the city, Culture Cards™ is an opportunity to stop and think about what’s important in their lives, what things are slipping away with the glitz of the times.

A game that is “education beyond tuitions” – helping Mumbaivasi and people around the world appreciate Indian culture simply by unraveling some of the mystery that hides it’s ancient cultures from the world…and even from each other. It is hoped that a greater sense of cultural identity will be fostered, and that everyone will learn something about the city and themselves!

Not for profit in particular, Culture Cards™ was designed to help the city’s cultural diversity keep from disappearing into the abyss of urban life. It is available in Mumbai at Granth, the Bookstore in Santa Cruz (W) and Goregaon (W); Landmark at Infinity Mall, Andheri (W); Oxford Bookstore at Churchgate; Strand Book Stall, Fort and other fine bookstores and toy distributors.

Distribution is through The Cultural Education Trust http://www.theculturaleducationtrust.com and to the trade by Shree Book Centre in Mumbai. It is also available at http://www.icespublication.com

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