27. Topic: A Cultural Custom
– Question 27: Describe a cultural custom or tradition from your country.
– You should say:
– What is the custom, and when is it practiced?
– What is the significance of this tradition?
– Have you participated in it, and how do you feel about it?
– How does it reflect the culture of your country?
Model answer by Lifestyle Training Centre
One of the most vibrant and unique cultural customs in India is Onam, a traditional harvest festival celebrated primarily in the southern state of Kerala. Onam marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and is observed over ten days in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August-September). It is a time of immense joy, festivity, and cultural pride.
The significance of Onam lies in its rich traditions and mythology. It symbolises the golden era of King Mahabali’s reign, known for peace, prosperity, and harmony. The festival honours the king’s spirit, and people welcome him with grand festivities, which include decorating homes with intricate floral arrangements called pookalam, wearing traditional attire, and preparing a lavish feast known as Onam Sadhya. This feast, served on banana leaves, consists of over 20 dishes, including curries, pickles, and desserts like payasam.
I have been fortunate enough to participate in Onam celebrations, and it’s an experience I’ll never forget. The highlight for me was the Onam Sadhya—the variety of flavours and the traditional way of eating on banana leaves felt incredibly special. I also enjoyed witnessing the famous Vallam Kali (boat race) on the backwaters, where beautifully decorated snake boats compete in thrilling races. The cultural performances, including traditional dances like Kathakali and Thiruvathira, added a mesmerising touch to the festivities.
Onam reflects Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and its agrarian roots. It celebrates unity, as people from all religions and communities come together to partake in the festivities. The emphasis on tradition, community spirit, and nature highlights the values that Indian culture holds dear—harmony, gratitude, and respect for the land.
In conclusion, Onam is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural extravaganza that showcases the beauty and diversity of Kerala’s traditions. It serves as a reminder of our connection to our roots and the joy of coming together as a community. It’s no wonder that Onam is celebrated not just in Kerala but by Malayalees all around the globe.
List of vocabulary used:
- Vibrant – Full of life, energy, or colour; lively and exciting.
- Cultural customs – Traditional practices and habits followed by a particular group or society.
- Mythical – Relating to myths or legends; fictional or symbolic.
- Homecoming – The return to one’s home or homeland, often celebrated with festivities.
- Immense – Extremely large or great in size, scope, or importance.
- Festivity – The activities or events related to a celebration.
- Pride – A feeling of deep satisfaction or admiration for something or someone.
- Symbolises – Represents or stands for something abstract or an idea.
- Lavish – Rich, elaborate, or luxurious in appearance or quantity.
- Banana leaves – Large, broad leaves from the banana tree, often used in traditional meals or ceremonies.
- Curry – A dish made with meat or vegetables, usually seasoned with a blend of spices.
- Pickles – Preserved vegetables or fruits, often in a tangy or spicy brine.
- Desserts – Sweet dishes typically served after a main meal.
- Backwaters – A network of lakes, rivers, or canals, especially in Kerala, known for its beauty.
- Boat race – A competitive race involving boats, often a traditional or cultural event.
- Mesmerising – Captivating or fascinating, drawing one’s full attention.
- Agrarian – Related to farming or agriculture.
- Unity – The state of being united or joined as a whole.
- Gratitude – The feeling of being thankful or appreciative.
- Extravaganza – An elaborate and spectacular event or celebration.
Idioms and Phrases
- A cultural extravaganza – An event that is elaborate and grand in terms of showcasing culture or traditions.
- Come together – To unite or gather in one place or for a shared purpose.
- A highlight for me – The most memorable or exciting part of an experience.
- Eat on banana leaves – A traditional way of serving food, often seen in Kerala, representing culture and heritage.
- A mesmerising touch – Something that has a captivating or enchanting effect.
- Reflects Kerala’s rich cultural heritage – Represents or showcases the deep and diverse traditions of Kerala.
- Values that Indian culture holds dear – Important beliefs or principles that are cherished in Indian society.
- A reminder of our connection to our roots – A call to appreciate or remember the origin and traditions from which we come.
IELTS Speaking Task Topics
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Names
Learn about the importance of names and their cultural significance.
Study / Job
Discuss various aspects of studying and working in different fields.
Hometown
Explore the charm of your hometown and its unique features.
Accomodation
Understand various types of accommodation and living situations.
Weather
Learn about how weather influences daily life and activities.
Time
Discuss the concept of time, its importance, and time management.
Television
Talk about the role of television in modern entertainment.
Museum
Discuss the cultural importance of museums and historical exhibits.
Holidays
Explore the significance of holidays and different celebrations.
Films
Learn about the impact of films on culture and society.
Leisure Time
Discuss how leisure activities impact personal well-being.
Sport
Talk about the role of sports in health, entertainment, and culture.
Vegetables and Fruits
Discuss the health benefits and importance of fresh produce.
Maths
Explore the role of mathematics in various aspects of life.
Sky
Discuss the beauty and scientific significance of the sky.
Clothes&Fashion
Explore how clothing reflects culture and personal expression.
Weekend
Discuss the importance of weekends and ways people relax.
Reading
Learn about the importance of reading and various reading habits.
Sleep
Explore how sleep impacts physical and mental well-being.
Trees&Plants
Discuss the environmental and health benefits of plants.
Newspaper
Discuss the evolving role of newspapers in the digital age.
Texting
Explore the role of text messaging in modern communication.
Memorising
Learn techniques for improving memory and memorization.
Travelling
Discuss the importance and impact of traveling in modern society.
Communication
Explore the modes and significance of communicating well
Letter&Email
Explore the differences and significance of letters vs. emails.
Swimming
Discuss the benefits of swimming for health and fitness.
Snacks
Explore the role of snacks in daily nutrition and lifestyle.
Photography
Discuss photography’s cultural and artistic significance.
Help
Talk about the importance of offering and receiving help.
History
Discuss historical events and their impact on modern society.
Handwriting
Explore the significance of handwriting in education and culture.
Music
Learn about the influence of music on emotions and society.
Colours
Discuss how colours affect perception and mood.
Teachers
Explore the role of teachers in shaping students’ futures.
Being Alone
Talk about the experience and benefits of spending time alone.
Teamwork
Learn the importance of teamwork in professional and social contexts.
Countryside & City
Explore the charm and benefits of living in the countryside.
Social Media
Discuss the impact of social media on society and relationships.
Friends
Explore the importance of friendships in life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Talk about the future of AI and its role in society.
Climate Change
Discuss the causes and consequences of climate change.
Transportation
Explore different modes of transportation in your area.
Sustainable Transportation
Explore ways to make transportation more environmentally friendly.
Space Exploration
Learn about the latest advancements in space exploration.
Shopping
Explore how shopping influences culture and the economy.
Modern Technology
Discuss how modern technology is reshaping society.
Technology
Learn about the role of technology in everyday life.
Sustainable Living
Explore ways to live sustainably for the future of the planet.
Globalisation
Learn about the effects of globalisation on society and economies.
Global Warming
Discuss the causes, effects, and solutions to global warming.
Gender Equality
Explore the importance of gender equality in modern society.
Health and Fitness
Discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Renewable Energy
Learn about renewable energy sources and their impact on the environment.
Cultural Traditions in Kerala
Explore the unique cultural traditions of Kerala, your hometown.
Cultural Traditions in Your Country
Learn about the cultural traditions in your country.
Education System
Discuss the education system in your country and its effectiveness.
Traditional Cuisine
Explore the significance of traditional cuisines in your culture.
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