India: A Cultural Melting Pot under the Influence of West?

October 31, 2016: Indian society is formed by the incorporation of culture followed by Indians since ancient times. Undoubtedly, Indian culture is one of the oldest existing cultures in the world. With each passing decade, it's evolving as per the needs of the Indians. But in the recent times, Western culture has been a heavy influence in the way Indian society is morphing. It has led to a few advancements, but at the same time, has caused Indians to disconnect from their roots rapidly.

The infiltration of Western culture is very much visible in the daily routine like choosing a pair of jeans over ethnic wear while going out, listening to rap music instead of Indian classical songs and preferring love marriage over arranged one.

Representational image. Pixabay.

As Western culture has mingled with the Indian society, it has given a vast array of choices to Indians. It enables each Indian to form a sense of individualism. But it has reached a point where Indian morals, ethics, and dignity are in danger.

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Indian culture boasts of its conservative attitude, but people are becoming more experimental and more curious. Peer pressure, lack of concern for family members and personal sense of gratification are the prime reasons.

Consumption of alcohol and drugs is getting excessive in India. Around 45% teenagers indulge in heavy drinking during their senior secondary exams.

Representational image. Pixabay

There are over 3 million drug addicts in India. Cannabis, Opium, and Heroin are the most popularly used drugs. Most of these behaviors are glorified in western rap songs, movies and by the Western celebrities.

In fact, Indians have started looking down at their own culture. In a country like India where globalization is at its peak, speaking English is the norm. Around 10% of India's population (approximately 125 million people) is fluent in English, making it next to The US among all the English-speaking countries.

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English was introduced in India as a way to empower Indians and to help them compete on a global level. It has helped in their progress, as many Indians are leading big American companies like Google and Microsoft, but it is threatening to diminish the value of Indian languages. As a result of colonization, speaking English has become a sign of sophistication and intelligence. It is only because of this reason that the new generation devours English novels and newspapers while neglecting their mother tongue.

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Indians are walking a thin line. They have to adjust to the Western culture while holding on to their Indian values. It is important to adopt various Western influences which are helpful for their mental, physical and economic growth. But they must not devalue Indian culture which can lead to their emotional, spiritual and ethical growth. The new generation must emerge as a fine amalgam of both the cultures in equal ratio.