Ricky Das
Modern College, Piphema
The ‘Great Globalization Tamasha’ and the internet have wreaked havoc on the sanctity of Indian culture, transforming it into a chaotic, yet undeniably entertaining, global tamasha. Gone are the days of serene village life, replaced by the deafening cacophony of online debates on the merits of pineapple on pizza.
Our grandparents, once content with their daily dose of "Saas Bahu Sagas," now grapple with the existential dread of "likes" and "followers." The age-old tradition of "Namaste" has been replaced by awkward air hugs and the dreaded "bro-fist." And forget about enjoying a peaceful meal – now, every bite is meticulously photographed and uploaded for the approval of the digital overlords.
The internet has also unleashed a torrent of foreign influences, turning our youth into unwitting cultural ambassadors for… well, everything from K-pop to TikTok dances. Our traditional attire now competes with ripped jeans and graphic tees, while our culinary delights face stiff competition from overpriced avocado toast.
But amidst the chaos, there's a strange beauty. We've become a nation of contradictions, seamlessly blending the ancient with the absurd. We argue passionately about the sanctity of yoga while ordering groceries online. We lament the decline of traditional values while binge-watching Korean dramas.
Perhaps, in this glorious mess, we're forging a new, uniquely Indian identity – one that embraces the world while clinging desperately to the remnants of our past. One thing's for sure: it's definitely turning out to be a wild ride.
We're a generation of "Global Desis" – fiercely proud of our Indian roots, yet hopelessly addicted to global trends. We don traditional attires with sneakers, debate philosophy with chai lattes, and celebrate Diwali with a side of Black Friday deals. It's a beautiful, chaotic, and entirely unique blend.
Finding your soulmate (or at least a decent date) online: Arranged marriages are so last century. Now, we swipe right, left, and centre, hoping to find our "happily ever after" amidst a sea of cat filters and cryptic bios. And let's be honest, the internet has significantly expanded our dating pool. Who knew there were so many eligible bachelors (and bachelorettes) outside our immediate social circle?
Our lives are increasingly documented through filters and reels. From perfectly curated Instagram stories to meticulously choreographed TikTok dances, we're constantly striving to present the "best" version of ourselves to the digital world. And let's be honest, sometimes, it's easier to impress strangers online than it is to have a meaningful conversation with your family at dinner.
For the coming generations, globalization and the internet will be indispensable for Indian culture. They will act as bridges, connecting young Indians with diverse cultures worldwide and fostering empathy and understanding. These technologies will fuel innovation, allowing them to collaborate with global experts, contribute to cutting-edge research, and drive India's progress. Moreover, the Internet will serve as a powerful platform to showcase and preserve Indian art, music and traditions, ensuring their continued appreciation and evolution. However, it's crucial to navigate this digital age thoughtfully, ensuring equitable access, promoting digital literacy and safeguarding the unique essence of Indian culture.
This article was judged as the winning essay in the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ NER(EBSB)-II conducted by NCC Group, Dibrugarh, Assam.
