Q19. ‘Globalisation is generally said to promote cultural homogenisation but due to this cultural specificities appear to be strengthened in the Indian society.’ Elucidate.
Model Answer:
Introduction
Globalization refers to the increasing interconnectedness of economies, cultures, and societies worldwide through trade, communication, and technology. Globalization significantly impacts cultures worldwide. In India, it presents a dual effect, fostering both cultural homogenization and the strengthening of local identities.
Body
How Globalization Promotes Cultural Homogenization in India
- Western Influence: Globalization facilitates the spread of Western lifestyles, values, and consumer products across Indian society.
- Media Dominance: Hollywood and Western media dominate Indian entertainment, influencing local narratives and reducing cultural diversity.
- Consumer Culture: Global brands promote a uniform consumer culture, leading to the decline of traditional practices and local artisans.
- Urbanization: Migration to urban areas promotes shared global trends, diluting regional customs and languages in favour of a global identity.
- Education System: Western educational curricula prioritize global knowledge, often sidelining local histories, languages, and traditions.
Cultural Specificities Strengthened in Indian Society
- Cultural Revival Movements: Increased interest in traditional arts, crafts, and festivals as a response to globalization's homogenizing effect.
- Regional Languages: Growing emphasis on preserving regional languages and dialects amidst the dominance of English and Hindi.
- Culinary Diversity: Globalization has led to a fusion of cuisines while simultaneously increasing the popularity of local Indian dishes.
- Spirituality and Religion: Revitalization of indigenous spiritual practices and local religious festivals in response to global cultural influences.
- Local Entrepreneurship: Emergence of local businesses catering to indigenous products and services, fostering a sense of pride in regional identity.
Globalization's impact on India illustrates a complex relationship, where cultural homogenization coexists with the revitalization of unique cultural identities, highlighting resilience in diversity.
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