In today's interconnected world, remote cross-cultural teams are becoming the norm. While virtual collaboration offers a world of possibilities, it can also present unique challenges in fostering meaningful connections and understanding diverse cultural perspectives.

To bridge this gap and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures within our team, we're excited to launch a series highlighting the countries where AMC Bridge operates. Let's kick things off with a captivating look at India and Ukraine, two nations steeped in history and brimming with cultural diversity.

We hope this article will inspire you to break free from the mundane, engage in small talk, and discover the fascinating worlds of your colleagues.

Harsha Sai Suda, Software Development Engineer 

A Land of Many Cultures

When asked to describe my country to someone who has never been there, I always emphasize India’s incredible diversity. For an outsider, it might be easy to think of India as a single, unified country, but within our borders, there are over 20 to 30 distinct cultures, each with its own traditions, history, and heritage. These elements are often intertwined with the rich mythology and epic tales like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, which have laid the foundation for much of our culture and ethics.

India’s diversity is also reflected in its geography and festivals. We have 30 states, each with its unique way of celebrating even the same festival. Our holiday calendars vary significantly from one region to another, reflecting the different cultural practices across the country. If you’re looking for beaches, the southern part of India, like Chennai, offers beautiful coastlines. If you prefer mountains, you can head to the north, to places like Himachal Pradesh or Sikkim. For those interested in architecture, Rajasthan’s forts and historic buildings are a must-see. Essentially, India is a blend of everything—a place where anyone can find something that resonates with them.

A Nation on the Rise

A common misconception about India that I’d like to correct is the idea that we are a poor or underdeveloped country. Our country is not underdeveloped; rather, it is in the midst of a significant growth story. India is still growing, offering immense opportunities, especially in sectors like technology. We have some of the toughest exams in the world, like those for the IITs, and our educational institutions are top-notch, producing highly competent professionals.

In India, Bangalore is often referred to as the Silicon Valley of our country, where numerous tech startups have flourished and continue to grow rapidly. India is not just about IT; our manufacturing, pharmaceutical, and housing sectors are also expanding. India’s growth story is something to watch, and it’s one of the best you’ll hear.

A Dish with Many Flavors

If you ask me about my favorite dish, it must be Hyderabadi biryani. This dish, made of rice, meat, and spices, varies from state to state. In Hyderabad, the biryani is famous for its unique preparation, where the meat and rice are cooked together, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly. In Chennai, however, the biryani has a different flavor profile, with the rice and meat cooked separately or together and with more tomatoes than spices. Similarly, in Pune, the biryani has a sweeter taste. Despite these variations, Hyderabadi biryani remains my favorite, and it has a rich history, originally created by the Nizams, the former rulers of Hyderabad.

Devkund: A Must-Visit

One of the most beautiful places I visited in India is Devkund Waterfall, near Pune. After a four to five-kilometer trek, you’re rewarded with a breathtaking view of the waterfall. I visited during the rainy season when the water flow was at its peak. Standing there, even from a distance, the mist from the waterfall enveloped me, and I felt an overwhelming sense of awe. It’s moments like these that make you appreciate the natural beauty of India

I just stayed there, silently watching the waterfall, doing nothing, speaking to no one. I sat there, mesmerized by its beauty, wondering how it was even created. How did it work? How was something so incredible even possible?

The Essence of Indian Tradition

If I could show a foreigner one thing about India, it would undoubtedly be a traditional Indian wedding. It’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of our culture, from vibrant clothing and music to rich traditions and rituals. Even though marriage is primarily about the couple, the celebration brings together families and friends in a way that’s truly unique to India. There’s dancing, singing, and a deep sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The weddings are not just a one-day event but a series of celebrations leading up to the big day. The Haldi ceremony, for instance, involves applying turmeric paste to the bride and groom, believed to purify and bless them with good health. Weddings in India are known for their grandeur, with families often spending up to ten times their annual income on the festivities. It’s a celebration not just for the couple but for entire families and communities.

Anna Molodchenko, Quality Assurance Engineer

A Land of Proud People and Diverse Traditions

If I were to describe Ukraine to a foreigner, I'd say it's a country in Eastern Europe that's been through a lot, especially with the ongoing war. But despite everything, you'll find resilience, pride, and an unyielding spirit here—everything except resignation. What makes Ukraine truly unique are its people. They are straightforward, and always sincere.

Culturally rich and diverse, Ukraine's landscape ranges from lush green meadows and deserts to the peaks of the Carpathian and Crimean Mountains, stretching from northern forests to the Black and Azov Seas. With a heavy heart, we see that lands in the east and south remain under occupation, and the fight for their liberation is ongoing. Our history is long and complex, with different cultures having influenced our traditions. Even within Ukraine, there are regional differences in customs and clothing, particularly in traditional embroidery. Each region has its own unique elements, yet we are united by common values and shared heritage. It’s a country where exploring these differences could be fascinating, not just for foreigners but for Ukrainians as well, as many of us are still actively discovering the unique traditions of our neighboring regions.

A Country of Progress, Creativity, and Strength

One misconception I faced a lot and that I'd like to clear up about Ukraine is the belief that it's merely an agricultural country. While agriculture is important and contributes to about 10% of our GDP, Ukraine is much more than that. Over the past 15 years, our economy has diversified significantly. We've developed a strong industrial sector, particularly in advanced manufacturing and aerospace, with cities like Dnipro becoming key hubs.

The russian invasion has undeniably shifted global perceptions of Ukraine, often focusing on war and resilience. There's so much more to Ukraine that deserves attention. Our rich culture, with its deep traditions and vibrant arts, continues to thrive. The warmth and determination of our people are unmatched. Despite the challenges, Ukraine remains a hub for technological innovation and IT and tech industry that's gaining international recognition. Beyond the headlines, Ukraine is a country of creativity, strength, and progress, with much to offer the world.

Ukrainian Syrnyky: A Culinary Favorite

When it comes to Ukrainian cuisine, my favorite dish is "syrnyky" or cottage cheese pancakes. They are incredibly versatile, with recipes ranging from the traditional Lviv syrnyky with chocolate, raisins and lemon zest to variations with fresh berries, honey and jams. Also, there are even salty variations with bryndza (a type of cheese) and greenery. The shape can also vary from small pucks for one bite to whole baked bricks and cakes. Ukrainian dairy products, in general, are unparalleled in variety and quality. It’s a real challenge to find anything comparable in Europe.

Ukraine's Natural and Urban Gems

If I were to recommend a place in Ukraine to visit, it would be the Carpathians, particularly Mount Hoverla. The journey to the summit is as rewarding as the view from the top, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine nature and an atmosphere of tranquility. It’s a challenging hike, but reaching the highest peak in Ukraine, over two kilometers high, is well worth the effort.

Kyiv, our capital, is another must-see. The city has a unique identity that captures the essence of Ukraine, blending the ancient with the modern. In spring, when the cherry and magnolia blossoms are in full bloom, Fomin Botanical Garden becomes a vibrant spectacle of colors, while Hryshko Central Botanical Garden with its endless lilac alleys, offers stunning views over the Dnipro River. Walking through these gardens is like stepping into a serene, almost otherworldly place. The skyline at sunset, with its pink clouds and the golden domes of churches, is a sight to behold.

The Heartbeat of Ukraine

It is hard to pick just one thing I would like to show a foreigner but if I must, it would be the Scythian gold collection in Treasury of the National Museum of the History of Ukraine, where you get in touch with a centuries-old heritage. This collection is a testament to the ancient Scythian civilization, known for its mastery in goldsmithing, and it includes some of the most intricate and beautiful artifacts, for example, items made in filigree technique. These treasures are more than just relics; they are a window into the lives of a people who roamed the steppes of Ukraine thousands of years ago, leaving behind a legacy of wealth and culture. To experience the spirit of Ukrainian freedom today, I’d take them to the Dnipro embankment in Dnipro city, especially near the Monastery Island and the Taras Shevchenko Park. It is a haven of tranquility, with lush greenery, winding paths, and panoramic views of the river. This place encapsulates the essence of Ukraine—its history, its natural beauty, and the indomitable spirit of its people. As you walk along the embankment, you can feel the heartbeat of Ukraine, a country that, despite its struggles, continues to thrive and inspire those who visit.