It would be good to introduce some changes on festival days. But these changes should be such that they herald harmony and happiness in the family. Children should be involved in the puja, the procedure can be simplified. For instance, on the day of Saraswathi puja, we can explain the greatness and importance of the Goddess through some interesting stories to the children so that devotion to the Almighty is imbibed in their mind. And, they should be taught to offer thanksgiving to the tools, musical instruments and books. When they grow up, we can restrict our advice and involve them in the puja if they are really interested. But in any case, they should be taught to meditate on the God at least for a few minutes on these days. Elders play a very responsible role here. They should bring in joy in the family transcending the differences, ego and hatred that might be existent among the members. When elders behave in such responsible manner children will also realize the importance of festivals as they grow up. And, educating them on the good aspects of the other religions and their doctrines will pave the way for tolerance and acceptance of opposite views when the situation warrants it.

There’s no use in performing the ‘vilakku’ puja grumbling about the husband. And, there’s no use in putting flowers on the photos of the deceased elders of the family grumbling about the children and cursing people. The present generation, before dismissing all these procedures as sheer ‘nonsense’ and taking pride in expressing their disbelief in these practices and customs should understand the practical benefits that we derive by following our customs and tradition. When we visit a temple, we receive the positive energy encompassed there and also we develop a strong hope that we can win over our problems with the help of a power that is beyond our comprehension. It is very important to worship and thank God for the good things that He has given us. And, we can pray to Him to give us the mental strength and energy to face the challenges and win over. Greeting few people orally will give us more joy than greeting hundred people through SMS. And, giving our maid the rich food cooked on these festival days would enhance our mental satisfaction. And, we can make children realize the worth of making others happy through small acts of this kind.

When there’s humanness, religion cannot interfere in the happiness of the family. Condemnation and hatred for other religions is an unforgivable and harmful attitude which should be uprooted at any cost. Those with humanness will never think of harming others; they can never even imagine their progress at the cost of the other person.

Rather than debating who is responsible for the waning of our age-old culture, heritage and affectionate family system, we can think over the means and ways that can help rectify this degenerating situation.