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250 Words15 Marks
Q.Are we losing our local identity for the global identity? Discuss.
UPSC Mains 2019•Society
Model Answer
View this Question In PYQ RealmIntroduction
Cultural identity is established on the core values shared in a living society, including language, dressing style, communication, and habits. Globalization is the result of the interchange of worldview, opinions, and various cultural aspects around the globe. It often influences local cultures to the extent that societies risk losing touch with their fundamental values.
Body Analysis
Evidence that Globalisation is Leading to a Loss of Local Identity
- Westernization of Culture: Blindly copying western cultural features while neglecting indigenous traditions. For example, celebrating the Christian New Year is highly popular, while the charm of traditional Indian New Year festivals (occurring around April) is declining.
- Loss of Local Languages to English: Due to the service-based economy and globalized education, English has developed rapidly at the cost of several vernacular languages.
- Decline of Classical Music: The changing taste of music among Indian youth, shifting towards Pop and Jazz, has put a question mark over the survivability of traditional classical music in India.
- Shift in Educational Values: The growing disorientation between moral education and advanced commercial education is leading to a dilution of traditional ethical identity.
- Degradation of the Institution of Marriage: The growing acceptance of live-in relationships has questioned the traditional sanctity of marriage, representing the dominance of Western lifestyle choices.
- Changing Styles of Clothing: With the rise of corporate culture, traditional Indian dressing styles have been relegated to occasional wear during festivals.
- Loss of Traditional Food Choices: The rise of fast-food chains has shifted the food choices of Indian youth towards Italian and Chinese fast foods, replacing healthier, nutrient-rich traditional diets.
Evidence of Resilience and Maintenance of Local Identity
Despite the onslaught of global culture, local culture has maintained its identity through several means:
- Global Celebration of Indian Festivals: Indian festivals are now celebrated worldwide. A significant example is the Diya stamps issued by the UN to celebrate Diwali. Even local festivals like Chhath Puja are celebrated in places like Silicon Valley, USA.
- International Yoga Day: The observance of International Yoga Day on June 21st has popularized Yoga globally.
- Glocalization of Food: Multinational chains like McDonald’s have adapted to the Indian style by introducing vegetarian menus (e.g., McAloo Tikki).
- Fusion Music: The fusion of Indo-Western music represents a healthy amalgamation of Indian and Western identities. Indian classical music is appreciated globally, supported by organizations like SPIC MACAY.
- Inbound Tourism: An increasing number of global tourists visit India specifically to explore its rich cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Culture is an ever-evolving entity that constantly changes through diffusion and amalgamation. While we must embrace our cultural identity and values, globalization is not entirely a threat, and the healthy infusion of global identity should be welcomed.