Globalisation is a process of increasing interdependence, interconnectedness and integration of economies and societies to extents never seen before. Some point it to creating a global common identity while others oppose it as cultural imperialism and an attempt at cultural subversion.
Globalisation threatening Diversity and Pluralism in India:
1. Families getting increasingly nuclear from erstwhile joint family structures.
2. English replacing Indian languages in everyday usage and 190 languages in India threatened with extinction (UNESCO language atlas).
3. Change in food habits and cuisines- McDonald’s effect.
4. Changes in the institution of marriage-contractual, live-ins and divorces are increasing.
5. Newer festivals like Valentine’s Day, Halloween are gaining prominence.
6. Regionalism rising as a reaction to globalisation.
Globalisation aiding in development of diversity and pluralism:
1. Greater emphasis of India and Indians before the world.
2. Gain in cultural consciousness empowering local culture and identities.
3. Increased interconnectedness due to forces of globalisation
4. Greater cultural influence of India: festivals, music, theatre etc.
5. West adapting to Indian context: No beef menu in McDonalds, Hollywood movies dubbed in India, etc.
6. Realisation of a local identity in addition of a national identity.
Globalisation is bi-directional. We imbibe elements of foreign cultures as they imbibe ours. However, as a civilisation that has existed since centuries and has faced countless adversaries without bowing down, globalisation isn't a force potent enough to subvert our diversity and pluralism.
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