The Village

A majority of the Indian population is farmers and they are settled in villages, working hard to accomplish the task of feeding themselves and the entire Nation. India has about 500,000 villages scattered throughout, a village being a settlement that has fewer than 5000 living units.

Villages have either tiny hamlets of thatched huts or large settlements of tile roofed, stone and brick homes. An impression has been created by artists and film makers that an Indian village is a simple cluster of mud plastered walls, shaded by trees, overlooking large expanses of green fields with a few people moving slowly and of course, ox carts. The village belle has a pot on her head and moves gracefully, her skirt swaying gently. The reality is that a village is the hub of nonstop activity, the work ethic being very strong. Agriculture is tough and requires hard work. The villagers toil, using time tested as well as innovative methods for growing wheat, rice, lentils, vegetables, fruits and other crops. There are other occupations as well. Villages have factionalism in politics, there being a multiplicity of economic, caste, kinship, occupational and religious groups. However, village rules are strictly adhered to and improper work or social habits are strongly criticized. There is also a strong sense of pride and honour.

The rustic life seems appealing and devoid of the hustle- bustle of the city but the seemingly sleepy village is always humming with activity. However, despite complications, the life here is simple and basic and brings with it easy happiness.