India, a land steeped in tradition, history, and a rich tapestry of cultures, finds itself at a crossroads today. While the world marvels at its ancient heritage, there’s an unsettling trend within the country. Instead of cherishing our roots, we’re increasingly looking to the West, often at the cost of our own identity. From viewing native languages as ‘uncool’ to sidelining traditional attire and customs, the very essence of India’s soul is at risk.
India’s affair with English is no secret. While proficiency in English is undeniably beneficial in a globalized world, the disdain for native languages has become alarming. Remember the time when speaking Hindi, Tamil, or Bengali wasn’t just common but celebrated?
Today, in some circles, speaking anything other than English is frowned upon, with certain elite schools even penalizing students for conversing in their mother tongues. As Rabindranath Tagore once said, “The more a language is confined to its native speakers, the closer it is to its death.” How true these words ring today! It’s not about shunning English but about giving our native languages the respect and place they deserve.
The obsession with Western attire is another nail in the coffin of Indian culture. While global fashion trends are enticing, the beauty of an Indian saree or kurta remains unparalleled. Imagine a world where Indian weddings, instead of being a riot of colors with traditional attires, become monochrome affairs. Scary, isn’t it? Aishwarya Rai Bachchan once remarked, “I am very rooted, I am very Indian.” We need more such voices championing our rich textile traditions, encouraging young Indians to wear their heritage with pride.
If we talk about food. While a burger or pizza occasionally is delightful, sidelining Indian cuisine is like sidelining our grandmothers’ tales – unthinkable! Our diverse palette offers flavors that have tantalized taste buds for centuries. Ditching local delicacies for fast food isn’t just about food; it’s about sidelining our history, culture, and traditions on a plate. Our tradition of mindful hand eating, sans utensils, intimately connects us to our food and its origins. Let us relish local flavors with the same hands that once crafted them, rather than seeing hand eating as disgusting or a sign of being unmannered.
Celebrating foreign festivals over our own is perhaps the most poignant sign of the times. While Valentine’s Day and Halloween have their charm, can they replace the joy of Diwali, Holi, or Eid? As Mahatma Gandhi rightly pointed out, “I do not want my house to be walled in on all sides and my windows to be stuffed. I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.” Celebrate diversity, yes, but not at the cost of losing one’s identity.
Some may argue that globalization will inevitably wipe out native cultures. However, countries like Japan, Korea and Thailand have maintained their cultural uniqueness alongside modernization rather than only glorifying Western lifestyles. South Korea offers important lessons for nations aiming to leverage cultural capital. The way it has catapulted its contemporary pop culture onto the global stage.
The way government actively nurtures hallyu through nation branding and cultural diplomacy initiatives. Concurrently, traditional heritage like martial arts and cuisine is also promoted internationally. Driving this strategy is the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism with an annual budget of nearly $4 billion. The Ministry funds programs across the cultural spectrum – arts, tourism, sports, hallyu content development and overseas promotional campaigns.
With coordinated efforts, South Korea has effectively maximized its soft power and global influence. India must similarly focus on rediscovering and strategically promoting its cultural strengths, domestically and abroad. Robust state support and investment are imperative to reviving cultural vibrancy and safeguarding India’s intangible heritage in the 21st century. Now if South Korea can amplify its culture globally, from K-pop to Korean dramas, surely India, with its diverse cultural arsenal, can do the same.
So Firstly, we need a mindset shift. Celebrating our traditions, languages, and customs isn’t regressive; it’s our strength. The government can play a pivotal role by introducing policies that promote native languages in educational institutions, funding initiatives that revive traditional crafts, promoting Indian cuisine globally, and incentivizing the study and practice of our indigenous medicinal systems.
In essence, India stands at a critical juncture. As Swami Vivekananda aptly said, “We are what our thoughts have made us; so take care about what you think.” Let’s reimagine and reshape our thoughts, ensuring that our rich cultural heritage isn’t just preserved but thrives, defining India’s identity in a rapidly changing world.
Call for the vibrant youth of India, our role in safeguarding our cultural legacy is paramount. While embracing modernity, remember our roots, cherish native languages, adorn traditional attire, and celebrate our festivals. Be ambassadors of our rich heritage, both within and beyond our borders. Let the world witness India’s beauty through your actions, ensuring our legacy thrives for generations to come.