Quotation
Quote by Deepa Mehta
The struggle between tradition and individual expression is one that takes place in every culture.
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Understanding this quote
The quote describes a recurring tension within cultures. Shared traditions provide established ways of thinking and creating, while individuals may want to express ideas in their own distinct way. The struggle arises when personal expression challenges, changes, or departs from what a culture has inherited. It presents this tension as a broad human experience rather than something limited to one society.
Source & trust
About this quotation
- Source
- Deepa Mehta, Director’s Statement for Fire
- Format
- Official Statement
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Topics

Elian Leaves the Thread Loose
When a young costume designer brings Elian a box of mismatched buttons, he expects to make one final, proper set of garments. A rehearsal disaster persuades him to try something less familiar: letting the whole riverside market invent the costumes with him.
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