Modernization vs Culture: Is India Forgetting Its Roots?

Hey friends, let’s have a heart-to-heart today. 

Have you ever noticed how India is evolving at an incredible speed skyscrapers, AI, global brands, everything right at our fingertips but in this whirlwind, we might be losing touch with our true essence?

Our traditions, values, and rich heritage seem to be taking a backseat.

Don’t get me wrong, modernization is fantastic! 

We have access to better technology, more job opportunities, global exposure, and a lifestyle that our grandparents could hardly have imagined. But as we embrace this progress, are we unintentionally letting go of the very things that define India? 

Let’s explore this and see if we can find a balance.

The Rise of Modernization in India

India has always been a land of diversity, spirituality, and deep-rooted traditions. However, in the past two decades, modernization has transformed our lives in significant ways. 

With rapid urbanization, digital revolutions, and a shift in global economic power, India is no longer just known for its temples and traditions it’s also recognized for its startups, tech hubs, and billion-dollar industries.

From cash to UPI, from handwritten letters to WhatsApp, from Doordarshan to Netflix, we’ve adapted swiftly. The world now sees us as a powerhouse of talent and innovation. But amidst all these advancements, are we inadvertently sidelining our own culture?

Signs That We’re Losing Touch with Our Culture

1. Festivals Reduced to Just Another Holiday

Festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid, and Durga Puja used to be cherished times for family gatherings, traditional rituals, and spreading joy. Nowadays, for many, they seem to be merely an excuse for parties, Instagram posts, and a long weekend escape. Are we still passing down the importance of these festivals to the next generation, or are they just waiting for the fireworks and sweets?

2. Western Influence on Our Lifestyle

Let’s face it—our fashion, music, food choices, and even how we communicate are heavily shaped by Western culture. While change can be positive, completely neglecting our roots isn’t the answer. How many of us still don traditional Indian attire outside of weddings? Or choose home-cooked meals over fast food? Even our languages are suffering—kids today often speak English more fluently than their native tongues!

3. The Decline of Joint Families

Remember the days when grandparents, uncles, aunts, and cousins all lived together? Today, nuclear families have become the standard, and with globalization, many find themselves living far from their relatives. This shift is weakening our sense of belonging and the strong family bonds we once had.

4. Spirituality vs. Materialism

India has long been a land of wisdom, meditation, and self-exploration. Yet today, material success often defines what happiness means. The timeless teachings of the Vedas, Bhagavad Gita, and Guru Granth Sahib are frequently overshadowed by motivational quotes from foreign authors. Are we overlooking the genuine wisdom that our ancestors imparted to us?

5. Diminishing Respect for Elders and Traditions

A few decades ago, touching feet, speaking with respect, and listening to elders were common practices. Today, these customs are often viewed as ‘outdated.’ While it’s important to question traditions, completely dismissing them isn’t the solution.

Is Modernization Really the Enemy?

Not at all! 

The issue isn’t with modernization itself, but rather how we choose to embrace it. Other nations modernize as well, yet they manage to preserve their cultural heritage. Take Japan, for example; they are leaders in technology while still bowing in greeting and upholding their traditional tea ceremonies. Similarly, China embraces advancement but continues to value family and honor their customs. 

So, why can’t we do the same?

It’s crucial to recognize that modernization and tradition can coexist. It’s about progressing while still honoring our roots.

How Can We Balance Progress and Culture?

1. Celebrate Festivals Meaningfully

Instead of merely snapping photos, engage in the rituals, involve your family, and educate the younger generation about the significance of each festival.

2. Stay Connected to Your Heritage

Learn your native language, prepare traditional meals, frequently visit your hometown, and maintain your cultural identity.

3. Honor Elders and Preserve Traditions

Our parents and grandparents possess wisdom that no search engine can provide. By listening to their stories and learning from their experiences, we keep our heritage vibrant.

4. Blend Tradition with Modern Living

Enjoy wearing jeans? That’s great! But don’t hesitate to don a kurta or saree occasionally. Appreciate Western music, but also delve into classical Indian melodies. Be cosmopolitan, yet remember to embrace your Indian identity first.

5. Support Indian Arts, Culture, and Products

Rather than following global trends blindly, let’s celebrate Indian craftsmanship, cinema, music, and literature. We should ensure that our own artists and creators receive the recognition they deserve.

How is Gen-Z Getting More Modernized?

Social Media Influence: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have exposed Gen-Z to global trends, Western fashion, and contemporary lifestyles. While this cultural exchange is beneficial, it has also contributed to the erosion of traditional Indian values.

• Westernization of Lifestyle: 

Gen-Z is increasingly opting for jeans instead of kurtas and choosing fast food over traditional home-cooked meals. The way festivals are celebrated has also shifted—many now prioritize Instagrammable moments over rituals and traditions.

• Shift in Language Preferences: 

In the past, there was a strong pride in speaking one’s mother tongue. Nowadays, many Gen-Z individuals feel more at ease communicating in English than in Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, or other regional languages. Some even shy away from using their native language in public, viewing it as "uncool."

• Less Interest in Traditions and Rituals: 

Previously, stories from the Ramayan, Mahabharat, and other scriptures were cherished and passed down through generations. Today, how many Gen-Z individuals actively engage with these narratives unless they encounter a modern adaptation on OTT platforms? The connection to traditional knowledge is diminishing.

• Rise of Individualism Over Family Values: 

In Indian culture, family has always been the cornerstone of society. However, contemporary lifestyles emphasize independence over interdependence. Joint families are becoming less common, and many young people prefer to live away from home for work or personal space. While independence is important, the emotional ties that once characterized Indian families are weakening.

• Global Pop Culture Influence: 

K-pop, Hollywood, Western music, and international influencers are shaping the aspirations of today’s youth. While it’s great to embrace diverse cultures, it shouldn’t come at the expense of completely losing touch with one’s own heritage.

How Can Gen-Z Stay Connected to Indian Culture?

• Celebrate Festivals with Authenticity: 

Instead of merely posting about festivals, engage in traditional rituals, understand their significance, and share them with others.

• Learn Your Mother Tongue: 

Even if you lean towards English, take pride in your regional language. Language is a vessel of cultural richness.

• Support Indian Art & Music: 

Dive into Indian classical music, folk traditions, and local artisans. Value homegrown talent instead of solely following global trends.

• Balance Fashion with Tradition: 

While modern outfits are appealing, traditional wear is also unique and stylish. Blend both styles in your wardrobe.

• Spend Time with Elders: 

They possess stories and wisdom that no contemporary self-help book can match.

• Know Your History & Epics: 

Explore the tales of Indian kings, warriors, and mythological narratives. They provide valuable life lessons and a strong sense of identity

Gen-Z represents the future of India. They have the potential to shape a modern, progressive nation while preserving the cultural identity that makes India unique. Modernization and tradition can harmoniously coexist—it’s all about finding the right balance.

I would love to hear your thoughts. 

Do you believe Gen-Z is losing touch with Indian culture, or are they simply adapting to the evolving times?

Final Thoughts

India has always been recognized for its ability to adapt while preserving its essence. However, we find ourselves at a crucial juncture today. It’s our choice to either let modernization diminish our identity or to leverage it to reinforce our cultural heritage while welcoming progress.

So, the next time someone remarks, “You’re too traditional” or “Why adhere to old customs?” just smile and respond, “Because that’s what defines me.”

What are your thoughts? 

Are we losing our culture, or are we simply evolving? 

Let’s chat in the comments!