UPSC 2018 Mains GS1 Model Answer - ‘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:

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.

How Globalization Promotes Cultural Homogenization in India

1. Western Influence: Globalization facilitates the spread of Western lifestyles, values, and consumer products across Indian society.
2. Media Dominance: Hollywood and Western media dominate Indian entertainment, influencing local narratives and reducing cultural diversity.
3. Consumer Culture: Global brands promote a uniform consumer culture, leading to the decline of traditional practices and local artisans.
4. Urbanization: Migration to urban areas promotes shared global trends, diluting regional customs and languages in favour of a global identity.
5. Education System: Western educational curricula prioritize global knowledge, often sidelining local histories, languages, and traditions.

Cultural Specificities Strengthened in Indian Society

1. Cultural Revival Movements: Increased interest in traditional arts, crafts, and festivals as a response to globalization's homogenizing effect.
2. Regional Languages: Growing emphasis on preserving regional languages and dialects amidst the dominance of English and Hindi.
3. Culinary Diversity: Globalization has led to a fusion of cuisines while simultaneously increasing the popularity of local Indian dishes.
4. Spirituality and Religion: Revitalization of indigenous spiritual practices and local religious festivals in response to global cultural influences.
5. 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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