Effects of Globalization on Indian society

Indian culture, one of the oldest and richest in the world, is characterized by diversity of languages, customs, beliefs, ideas, works of art, architecture, rituals, ceremonies etc. On the other hand, Western culture is considered as one of the most modern cultures in the world. Both cultures are vastly different from each other, however, in the contemporary globalised world, the interaction between the two cultures is increasing. The effect of Western culture manifests itself through major transformation of our lifestyle and interchanging world views and ideas. In the process, it is argued that there is a growing tendency to mimic the West, as can be seen from the following:

• Family: The concept of joint families is increasingly becoming uncommon in Indian cities and the trend of nuclearisation of families is rising.
• Social values: Consumerism has permeated and changed the traditional beliefs and practices of the Indian people. Fast fashion, which is environmentally unsustainable, is increasingly gaining traction. Also, festivals that have no cultural connection with India such as Halloween and Valentine’s day are being celebrated with fervour.
• Marriage: The increased incidence of marital breakdowns, increasing age of marriage, acceptance of same-sex marriages etc. indicate that modern liberal values have seeped through our tradition and culture. Further, live-in relationships are becoming more common, especially in cities.
• Food and clothing: Western cuisines, especially fast food, are growing in popularity, as Western fast food chains such as McDonald’s and KFC are increasing their stronghold on the Indian market. Similarly, Indians are more inclined towards Western attires as compared to traditional Indian wear.
• Language: The ability to speak in English is seen as an advantage and a matter of prestige. Further, ‘Hinglish’ is widely spoken, especially by the youth.
• Popular culture and mass media: Western movies and web serials are gaining popularity and have a huge fan following. Also, sensationalism, marketing and product placement, which are typically signs of Western hedonism, have been adopted in India.

However, India is also witnessing a revival and glorification of its past, traditions and customs. This can be discerned through the following

• Concerted efforts are being made to popularize India’s traditions like yoga and meditation across the world.
• There is an increased interest in the Indian system of traditional medicine as can be seen in the increased expenditure to promote research and development of ayurvedic and homeopathic medicines.
• There has been a resurgence of politics with an alternative view on nationalism, which is not based on Western secularism.
• Disapproval of Western impact on our culture is being expressed through organized protests against literature festivals and monitoring of couples by vigilant groups during Valentine’s day etc.

Indian and Western cultures represent their own tradition and values. Often times, cultures evolve and progress by borrowing certain traits from others. However, such a process needs to be syncretic and carefully balanced. In this context, Indian culture should not lie at either of the two extremes i.e. do mindless mimicry to outdo the West or vehemently retaliate against it and should maintain a balance between the two.