From Seychelles to Manipal

The isle comprising the cluster of as many as 115 little islands is known for its enchanted gorgeous aquatic tranquil. The radiance of the blue green sea that captivates the soil blends different cultures and religions in a solitary basket that stands apart with its ever nurturing environment. At different times in the path way of olden times, people from Africa, Asia and Europe have come down to Seychelles, bringing with them an array of the distinct customs and traditions, thereby creating an indelible blotch on the cultural legacy of awesome island.

Daine Charlot and Ethel Mellies from the island of traditional ‘Moutya’ (an erotic dance popular in Seychelles) and ‘Sega’ (vibrant lyrics) have come down to this little hamlet of education, Manipal, to pursue their Bachelors in Communication.

Daine and Ethel are in Manipal since 3 years and have their own perceptions over the customs, cultures and traditions in India. Excerpts of the interview:

What is your experience of education in India in contrast to Seychelles and what made you to come to India for your higher education?

Daine/Ethel: Education is good in India. The venue for our higher education is decided by the government as the entire educational expenses are borne by the government itself. Our pre-university education is upto 11th standard and Seychelles University offers scholarship for higher education.

We can only choose our area of interest and rest is the responsibility of government to decide upon the university in which we should study.

Why did you choose journalism and communication?

Daine:  As Seychelles has potential tourism opportunities, jobs in tourism sector are enormous. Degree holders in communication are most sought out employees in the field. I want to be a public relation officer (PRO) in any tourist organisation.

Ethel: I love print media. We have only one national newspaper ‘Nation’. I want to be a reporter in Nation. I want to get experience in writing. As I am less comfortable with people, I can’t imagine anything else other than print media.

Tell me something about the fee structure over there in Seychelles?

Daine/Ethel: It is very cheap in India. On the other hand, it is too expensive studying in Seychelles without government help.

How do you find India?

Daine/Ethel: Interesting. People here are very conservative. Wearing saree is a new experience.

Which are the places you traveled in India?

Daine/Ethel: Goa and Bangalore. Both places are good.

How do you describe the cultural aspects both in India and Seychelles?

Daine:  We have all cultures like Indian, Chinese, Africans and many more. People from various religions like Muslim, Catholics and Hindus are in Seychelles. It is a blend of many cultures and traditions. Here in India, it is different.

Ethel: All are united in Seychelles. In India, you find conflict between people because of culture and religion.

Your experiences in India?

Ethel: They treat us like aliens. It could have been better. At times people make our stay here very difficult.

Daine:  They point finger at us when we walk because we stand apart.

Politics in Seychelles?

Daine/Ethel: It is very systematic in Seychelles. We have only three political parties unlike India where there are several regional parties besides national parties. At present Socialist party is in power. Democratic and Nationalistic are the other two parties in political brawl. Politics in India is very different. Politicians fight always especially in parliament.

Would you like recommend India for your friends?

Daine/Ethel: Despite the fact we encountered difficulties like being cheated by the taximen and auto-rickshaw drivers, we would surely recommend India to our friends with caution for better stay.