Culture shock

Every city or country has its own culture. When we live in a place for a longer period we get habituated to its culture. Sometimes, we even take it for granted and get shocked if it does not happen as per our expectations.

It recently happened with my aunt, who lives in a different Arab country, when she went for a music concert.

Wearing an Abaya is not only popular in the Arab world but also a part of the local culture in every country in this region. But she got a shock when the security staff stopped her at the gate and said that women wearing Abayas are not allowed.

She was stunned at this new rule. She had been going to concerts and theatres earlier too but had never heard about such a rule.

“Why only this concert?” she wondered.

After failing to find out a valid reason, she tried to convince the security staff, but it was of no use as they stuck to the rule. She was urged to remove the Abaya, if she was eager to enjoy the performance.

She preferred to return home. While on her way back, she saw a few other ladies returning disappointed.

During a recent visit when I learnt about her experience, I asked for the ticket. A close look revealed that the dress code was emphasised in the terms and conditions printed on the other side of the ticket.

It was a lesson for everyone — never take anything for granted and check the rules and regulations of an event before proceeding.

(Published in The Gulf Today on November 23, 2013)