2.4. Westernisation

M.N. Srinivas defines westernisation as "the changes brought about in Indian society and culture as a result of over 150 years of British rule, the term subsuming changes occurring at different levels…technology, institutions, ideology and values".

Westernisation refers to the profound transformations that occurred in Indian society as a result of British colonial rule over more than a century. These changes affected various aspects of cultural life, including technology, social institutions, ideological frameworks, and values that characterize society. Essentially, it captures how Indian culture was influenced or altered by Western norms and practices.

Think of the introduction of Western-style education and governance in India, which brought about new ways of thinking and functioning in society. Just as a smartphone changes the way people communicate and access information today, Westernisation fundamentally changed how Indians perceived governance, education, and social norms.

One kind refers to the emergence of a westernised sub-cultural pattern through a minority section of Indians who first came in contact with Western culture. This included the sub culture of Indian intellectuals who not only adopted many cognitive patterns, or ways of thinking, and styles of life, but supported its expansion.

There are multiple dimensions to Westernisation. One significant aspect is the emergence of a sub-culture wherein a small segment of the population, particularly intellectuals, adopted Western ways of life and thought. This adoption included changes in dress, social practices, and ideologies, influencing the broader societal landscape. These individuals often became advocates and promoters of Western culture, thereby facilitating its widespread acceptance.

Consider the way a few celebrities or influencers adopt Western fashion and lifestyles, often leading to widespread trends among their followers. Just as a handful of trendsetters can cause significant shifts in public fashion and behavior, this group of intellectuals played a crucial role in integrating western ideas into Indian society.

Apart from this there has been also the general spread of Western cultural traits, such as the use of new technology, dress, food, and changes in the habits and styles of people in general.

The influence of Western culture transcended just the intellectual elite; it generalised across many sections of society. People began to adopt Western technologies, clothing styles, dietary habits, and even modern convenience items, leading to noticeable shifts in everyday lifestyles and consumer habits.

Think about how many people in urban India enjoy fast food like burgers and pizzas, which are considered Western food. This reflects how Western eating habits have permeated Indian culture, similar to how the internet has transformed our communication methods ready to connect instantly with friends or family regardless of distance.

Westernisation does involve the imitation of external forms of culture. It does not necessarily mean that people adopt modern values of democracy and equality.

While Westernisation entails adopting external cultural forms, such as dress and technology, it does not automatically include the adoption of Western values like democracy or egalitarianism. Many individuals and communities may take on the superficial aspects of Western culture without engaging with or embracing its underlying philosophies or values.

For instance, a person might wear Western clothing, such as jeans and a t-shirt, and live in a stylish apartment, but still hold traditional views on gender roles within the household. This duality illustrates how people can embrace aspects of a culture without fully embracing its core values.

In the contemporary context often conflicts between generations are seen as cultural conflicts resulting from westernisation.

As Westernisation continues to influence Indian society, it often leads to generational conflicts. Younger generations, exposed to Western values and lifestyles, may find themselves at odds with older generations who adhere to traditional ways. These conflicts can manifest in various areas, including clothing, communication styles, and social norms.

Imagine a young adult wanting to pursue a career in a modern field like technology or fashion, while their parents may have traditional expectations for them to pursue more conventional careers. This clash creates a cultural conflict rooted in differing perceptions of success, shaped by Western influences on youth.

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