2. Cultural Change

We saw in the last chapter how colonialism brought in changes that altered the structure of Indian society. Industrialisation and urbanisation transformed the lives of people. Factories replaced fields as places of work for some. Cities replaced villages as places to live for many. Living and working arrangements or structures changed. Changes also took place in culture, ways of life, norms, values, fashions and even body language.

Colonialism brought significant transformation in how people lived and worked in India. Before colonial rule, many people worked in agriculture and lived in rural areas. However, colonialism ushered in industrialization, leading to the establishment of factories. This meant that many people left their villages and started working in cities. Besides economic changes, colonialism also influenced cultural norms, including people's behaviors, values, and even how they communicated with each other non-verbally.

Consider how the rise of technology in today's world makes people shift from traditional jobs to IT and software industries. Just like colonialism spurred industrialization in India, the digital revolution is transforming how we work and live today.

This chapter looks at two related developments, both a complex product of the impact of colonial rule. The first deals with the deliberate and conscious efforts made by the 19th century social reformers and early 20th century nationalists to bring in changes in social practices that discriminated against women and ‘lower’ castes.

The social reform movements that arose during the 19th century were a direct response to the inequalities and injustices present in Indian society, notably against women and lower castes. These reformers recognized the need for change and actively sought to eliminate practices like sati (the burning of widows) and child marriages, which were seen as major social evils. They were motivated by both traditional teachings and the call for modernity brought on by colonial encounters.

Think of today’s movements fighting for gender equality and the rights of marginalized communities. Similar to the reform movements of the past, present-day groups advocate for legislative changes and increased social awareness to combat discrimination.

What marked these 19th century social reform attempts was the modern context and mix of ideas. It was a creative combination of modern ideas of western liberalism and a new look on traditional literature.

The 19th-century reformers blended new Western ideas about freedom and human rights with an interpretation of traditional Indian literature and values. By doing so, they didn’t completely reject their cultural heritage; instead, they worked to reform it using modern ideals. This mix created a unique approach that aimed to improve society while honoring its roots.

Consider how modern filmmakers incorporate traditional stories into contemporary situations—like retelling ancient epics with modern dilemmas and themes. This reflects how cultural adaptation can lead to both honors for the past and innovation for the future.

New technologies speeded up various forms of communication. The printing press, telegraph, and later the microphone, movement of people and goods through steamship and railways helped quick movement of new ideas.

Advancements in communication technologies played a crucial role in spreading reformist ideas rapidly across India. The printing press enabled the distribution of pamphlets and newspapers, thereby informing a larger audience about social issues, while railways allowed reformers to connect, share ideas, and mobilize people across vast distances.

Today, social media serves a similar purpose, enabling quick and wide dissemination of ideas and movements, helping various causes gain momentum in a short time.

For example, a resolution against the evils of polygamy was proposed by Jahanara Shah Nawas at the All India Muslim Ladies Conference. She argued: 'the kind of polygamy which is practiced by certain sections of the Muslims is against the true spirit of the Quran…and it is the duty of the educated women to exercise their influence among the relations to put an end to this practice.'

The opposition to practices like polygamy highlighted the efforts made by women reformers to challenge not just societal norms, but also to invoke religious texts to justify their stance. Jahanara's statement illustrates the active role women played in advocating for change within their communities, working towards an interpretation of faith that supported equality.

Much like today's activists who appeal to both religious beliefs and modern values to support their calls for gender equality, Jahanara Shah Nawas exemplified how women can leverage their voices for reform.

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