Cultural processes played a significant role in developing a sense of collective belongingness in India during the 19th century. These processes were influenced by various factors, including religious and social reform movements, literary and artistic endeavors, and political movements.

Religious and Social Reform Movements:
- The Brahmo Samaj, founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy, aimed to reform Hinduism and promote monotheism. It emphasized social equality, women's education, and the elimination of caste discrimination. This movement fostered a sense of belongingness among its members, who shared a common vision for a modern and inclusive society.
- The Arya Samaj, founded by Swami Dayananda Saraswati, emphasized the revival of Vedic traditions and the promotion of social reform. It sought to unite Hindus and create a sense of collective belongingness based on a shared cultural heritage.

Literary and Artistic Endeavors:
- The Bengal Renaissance, led by figures like Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, promoted cultural and intellectual renewal. Through their literary works, they celebrated Indian culture, history, and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and collective belongingness.
- The establishment of vernacular newspapers and literary societies provided a platform for the expression of diverse regional identities, while also contributing to a sense of collective belongingness on a national level.

Political Movements:
- The Indian National Congress, founded in 1885, became a platform for political mobilization and the articulation of shared aspirations for self-governance. It brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds and regions, fostering a sense of collective belongingness among its members.
- The Swadeshi Movement, initiated in response to the partition of Bengal in 1905, encouraged the use of Indian-made products and the boycott of British goods. This movement united people across India in a common cause, reinforcing their sense of collective identity and belongingness.

Example:
One example of how cultural processes developed a sense of collective belongingness is the impact of the Bhakti movement. This religious and social reform movement, which emerged in the medieval period, emphasized devotion to a personal deity and rejected the rigid caste system. Bhakti poets like Kabir, Mirabai, and Tulsidas composed vernacular songs and verses that resonated with people from different social backgrounds. These devotional songs celebrated love and spirituality, promoting a sense of unity and shared values among diverse communities. The Bhakti movement thus fostered a collective sense of belongingness based on a shared religious and cultural identity.