Describe an Interesting Tradition in Your Country- IELTS Cue Card

In the IELTS Speaking section, one of the most common question types is the Cue Card Speaking prompt. The IELTS Cue Card topics will prompt you to formulate a response and speak on the given topic. To attempt this question, you must narrow down the essential questions on the given topic to answer within the given time. Consider the sample Cue Card below. Study the types of questions that have been formulated based on the cue card and how to go about with your response:

Sample Answer

Traditions are an integral part of the culture and the way of life of certain communities. India is a nation known for its vast diversity of people belonging to different faiths, castes and social classes. However, it is our customs and traditions that unify us as a nation, regardless of where we come from. Traditions are an inherent part of the Indian heritage, and such rituals are deep-rooted in our lifestyle. One such conventional tradition that is practised by nearly every Indian household is the Raksha Bandhan.

Raksha Bandhan is a ceremony where siblings, especially brothers and sisters, come together and celebrate their wonderful bond. This tradition has been followed for centuries in our country and is one of the most important traditions of Indian culture. Although it is mostly celebrated in north India and has similar celebrations in other parts of the country like Bhai Dooj, at present, it has become one of those customs that transcends religious stereotypes and is celebrated by people of all faiths.

Typically, Raksha Bandhan involves the auspicious ceremony of tying a sacred piece of thread, also known as a Rakhi, on the hand of your loved ones. This rite is most common among a brother and her sister, where the sister ties the Rakhi on her brother’s hand as a symbol of love, trust and preservation. That being said, this tradition is also performed among other siblings and close friends in many cases.

I believe that such a tradition is a testament to the wonders of our enchanting culture. Moreover, since Rakhsha Bandhan is a celebration of sacred bonds and relationships, it is a truly awe-inspiring event that I love to be a part of every year.

Vocabulary

• Integral

Meaning: necessary to make a whole complete; essential or fundamental.

Eg.: The engine is an integral part of an automobile.

• Inherent

Meaning: existing in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute.
Eg.: Ignorance of the poor is an inherent part of present-day society.

• Conventional

Meaning: based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.
Eg.: Rita was part of a conventional household and upbringing.

• Transcends

Meaning: surpass.
Eg.: He was able to transcend everyone in his class in academics.

• Rite

Meaning: a social custom, practice, or conventional act.
Eg.: The Johnson family never missed their annual Christmas rite.

Part 3 – Follow up Questions

• What is the importance of traditional festivals?

Traditional festivals are a fundamental part of the culture and heritage of a community or region. These festivals present an opportunity to people to celebrate their customs extravagantly. During such events, not only do people from a single community come together and celebrate, but individuals from other cultures also become involved. Thus, these festivals are perfect occasions where people enjoy themselves in unity.

• What’s the difference between festivals now and in the past?

Festivals have always been a part of our culture. That being said, the fashion in which they are celebrated has changed over the years. In the past, festivals meant the practice of sacred rituals, visiting and spending time with family and friends. Presently, festivals are considered to be holidays where people visit exorbitant places and flaunt on social media.

• Do you think western festivals like Christmas are replacing traditional festivals in your country?

I believe that the celebration of festivals should not be typecasted to a particular community. That being said, the excessive idolization of western culture has diverted people’s attention from traditional festivals. As a result, people, especially youngsters, are more knowledgeable about western festivals like Christmas and Halloween than they are about our cultural events. Such a dynamic is becoming more and more common with the present generation.

• Do you think it is wrong for children not to celebrate traditional festivals?

One of the most recurrent reasons young children avoid celebrating traditional festivals is their lack of knowledge about them. Presently, children tend to spend most of their time on the internet and less time with their elders learning about our heritage. In my opinion, children should be involved in cultural activities and traditional celebrations to improve their understanding of our culture.

• Do you think teenagers should learn about traditions?

Yes, it is critical that teenagers learn about traditions and culture. Teenagers and youngsters are the future of their generation. Therefore, if they are not well-informed about their heritage, it has a detrimental effect on their identity and their social values. Teenagers should also learn about their traditions as it brings about a feeling of reverence for their customs and traditions.

Vocabulary

• Extravagantly

Meaning: with a lack of restraint in spending money or using resources.
Eg.: Denise celebrated her work anniversary rather extravagantly.

• Flaunt

Meaning: display (something) ostentatiously, especially in order to provoke envy or admiration or to show defiance.
Eg.: The princess never failed to flaunt her expensive attire.

• Typecasted

Meaning: represent or regard (a person or their role) as fitting a particular stereotype.
Eg.: African-Americans were often typecast in Hollywood films as villains.

• Idolization

Meaning: admire, revere, or love greatly or excessively.
Eg.: The idolization of violence under any circumstances is incorrect.

• Reverence

Meaning: deep respect for someone or something.
Eg.: The pupils always exhibited great reverence for their teacher.