Globalization is a process of increasing interdependence, interconnectedness and integration of economies and societies to such an extent that an event in one part of the globe affects people in other parts of the world.
- Globalization has a widespread impact, influencing everyone in different ways. For some, it brings new opportunities, while for others, it results in losing their means of living.
- For example: The introduction of Chinese and Korean silk yarn in the market led to women silk spinners and twisters in Bihar losing their jobs. Weavers and consumers favored this yarn because it was relatively cheaper and had a shiny appearance.
- The arrival of large fishing vessels in Indian waters resulted in the loss of opportunities for Indian fishing vessels and affected the livelihoods of women engaged in fish sorting, drying, vending, and related activities
- In Gujarat, women collecting gum from ‘julifera’ (Baval trees) lost their jobs because cheaper gum from Sudan was imported. Similarly, rag pickers in various Indian cities faced reduced job opportunities due to the import of waste paper from developed countries.
- Globalization holds significant social importance, but opinions on its impact vary widely. Some believe that while the more privileged may benefit, it worsens the condition of those already marginalized. Others argue that globalization is not a novel development.
Impact of Globalizatiion on Indian Culture
- Globalization has various impacts on culture. Throughout history, India has embraced diverse cultural influences, contributing to its enrichment.
- However, recent decades have brought significant cultural changes, sparking concerns about potential dominance of local cultures.
- Consequently, debates have arisen encompassing not only political and economic matters but also changes in fashion, music, films, languages, and body language.
- Although these discussions are not new and have historical roots in 19th-century debates among reformers and nationalists, the present-day issues differ in scale and intensity of change.
Homogenization versus Glocalization of culture
- One major argument revolves around the idea of cultures becoming alike and homogenous due to globalization. However, an opposing viewpoint emphasizes the rising trend of “glocalization” in culture. Glocalization refers to blending global and local elements.
- This isn’t entirely organic; it often links to the commercial interests of globalization. Foreign corporations often adapt global products to suit local traditions for better marketability.
- In India, foreign TV channels like Star, MTV, Channel V, and Cartoon Network use Indian languages. Even McDonald’s sells only vegetarian and chicken items in India, avoiding beef products popular elsewhere. During Navaratri festival, McDonald’s offers a vegetarian menu.
- In music, we see the rise of ‘Bhangra pop’, ‘Indi pop’, fusion music, and remixes gaining popularity.
| Homogenization of Culture | Glocalization of Culture |
| Family structure: Joint family has been adversely affected due to globalization (discussed in detail later). There has been an increase in nuclear families. This can be clearly manifested in the increasing number of old age homes that are present now. | Food: India has its unique cuisine, but the cuisines of foreign countries have become more easily available, they are modified to suit the taste buds of Indians (like Paneer Tikka Burger in McDonalds). This has led to a wide variety of food being available, leading to heterogenization |
| Food:Opening up of food joints like McDonalds, KFC across the country, there has been a homogenization of food available across the country, but there has also been heterogenization in food. Old restaurants are now replaced by Mc. Donald’s. Fast food and Chinese dishes have replaced juice corners and Parathas. | Movies: Popularity of foreign movies has increased, Hollywood, Chinese, French and Korean movies are quite popular among the urban youth. Along with this, dubbing of these foreign movies in local languages is testimony of increased glocalization. Furthermore, there has been a rising acceptance and popularity of OTT platforms which showcase content from across the world. |
| Consumerism: Borrowing of money has become more acceptable now as compared to the past.Taking loans is very common due to increasing access to financial institutions | Festivals: celebrations of Valentines’ day, Friendship day are examples of change in cultural values related to festival. However, along with these new days, traditional festivals are celebrated withequal enthusiasm. |
| Entertainment: In place of old cinema halls, multiplex theatres are coming up. | Marriage: Importance of marriage, as an institution, is decreasing.There has been an increase in divorce, increase in live-in relationships, and single parenting is increasing. Marriage used to be considered as bonding of the souls; but today marriage is becoming professional and contractual. However, despite change in forms of marriage, it has not declined as an institution. |
| Language: Use of English has increased manifold in urban areas, this has led to a homogenization in language across the country. The rural areas have, however, been less affected by it. The 2011 Census showed English is the primary language—mother tongue—of 256,000 people, the second language of 83 million people, and the third language of another 46 million people, making it the second-most widely spoken language after Hindi. | |
Revival of Culture
- Yoga has experienced a revival both in India and on a global scale. This resurgence is evident in the popularity of programs like the ‘Art of Living‘ course led by Ravi Shankar and the worldwide celebration of International Yoga Day.
- Ayurvedic medicines have seen a resurgence in popularity both within India and abroad.
- Due to growing connections with the outside world, there has been a resurgence in religious practices. This is observed through the use of religion to attract voters or mobilize people based on religious beliefs.
- There’s a rising demand for local handicraft products like Chikankari or Bandhani in the global market. These traditional crafts are gaining popularity and are sought after by international buyers.
- As global tourism increases, local communities are making efforts to preserve their diversity and revive their traditions. This is often a response to the growing interest of visitors in experiencing authentic local culture and traditions.
Many changes have impacted Indian culture significantly, primarily in urban areas. However, these transformations are also gradually influencing rural areas. Western culture has influenced Indian culture, yet it hasn’t entirely replaced it; instead, there’s a blend of both cultures happening across the country.
 Culture is not static; it evolves and adapts to social changes. Globalization often fosters the development of not only new local traditions but also global ones, creating a diverse tapestry of cultural influences.
FAQs
1. How has globalization impacted Indian culture?
Answer: Globalization has significantly impacted Indian culture by introducing new ideas, technologies, and cultural practices from around the world. This has led to increased cultural exchange, adoption of foreign lifestyles, and changes in traditional norms and values.
2. Does globalization lead to the homogenization of Indian culture?
Answer: Globalization does pose the risk of homogenizing Indian culture by promoting the dominance of Western values, languages, and consumer goods. However, Indian culture is rich and diverse, with strong historical roots, which often resist complete homogenization.
3. What is glocalization in the context of Indian culture?
Answer: Glocalization refers to the adaptation of global ideas and practices to local contexts. In the Indian context, it means integrating foreign influences with indigenous traditions, resulting in a unique hybrid culture that preserves local identities while embracing global elements.
4. How does glocalization manifest in Indian society?
Answer: Glocalization is evident in various aspects of Indian society, such as cuisine, fashion, music, and language. For example, the popularity of fusion cuisine blending Indian spices with international flavors or the emergence of Bollywood as a global cultural phenomenon reflects the glocalization of Indian culture.
5. Can globalization and glocalization coexist in Indian culture?
Answer: Yes, globalization and glocalization can coexist in Indian culture. While globalization introduces external influences, glocalization allows Indians to adapt these influences in ways that resonate with their cultural identity. This dynamic interplay between global and local forces enriches Indian culture and fosters cultural diversity amidst globalization’s trends towards homogenization.
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