Every generation is the torch bearer of culture and tradition and it must pass onto the next generation. This is a sacred duty, and for the continuity of culture, this becomes essential. Cultures depend on various traditions. Some of them are well founded on reason while others are meaningless. Some of the latter block the progress of a community or even a nation.
Let us see in what ways some of traditions prove an obstacle to progress. Look at the purdah system. How it started, history alone can say. But today it is meaningless. Is it out of jealousy or suspicion that mean keeps his women under purdah? They are denied the benefit of sunlight and fresh air. So among purdah women there are some who suffer from skin diseases and even pulmonary diseases. It is high time people revise their notions about purdah.
Untouchability is prevailing in some form or other in many countries. It is a pity that some of our own brethren should be considered untouchables. There was a time when their proximity was supposed to pollute water and vitiate the air. If it was because of certain habits of theirs that they were considered untouchable; it is a great pity indeed. Some jobs are nasty but, for that matter, people engaged in such jobs should not be considered untouchables.
Look at the colour bar being practiced in certain countries. It is sheer accident that some are born fair skinned and others dark. Again it is sheer accident of history that some people became slaves and others masters. To base one’s judgment on such a tradition and to deny the coloured one his legitimate rights is something unfair.
There are many more things like this which stand as an obstacle to progress.
meaningless of no use or meaning
obstacle hindrance
