NCERT Solution - Cultural Change

Q1: Write a critical essay on sanskritisation.
Ans: The term sanskritisation was introduced by M.N. Srinivas. It refers to the process where a low caste, tribe, or group adopts the customs, rituals, beliefs, and lifestyle of a higher caste, particularly a twice-born caste. Its effects are evident in various aspects of culture, including:

• Language
• Literature
• Ideology
• Music
• Dance
• Drama
• Rituals and lifestyle

Sanskritisation primarily occurs within the Hindu context, although Srinivas noted its presence in other religious groups. The process varies by region:

• In areas dominated by a highly sanskritised caste, the entire region tends to experience Sanskritisation.
• In regions where non-sanskritic castes are dominant, their influence can lead to a process called de-sanskritisation.

Critics of sanskritisation raise several points:

• It may exaggerate the social mobility of lower castes, resulting in positional changes rather than structural changes.
• It implies that upper caste customs are superior, making the desire to imitate them seem natural.
• It reinforces a model based on inequality and exclusion, justifying beliefs in pollution and purity among groups.
• It often leads to the adoption of upper caste practices that can harm women, such as dowry systems and caste discrimination.
• It erodes the unique characteristics of dalit culture, devaluing their traditional roles and skills.

Overall, sanskritisation reflects a complex interplay of aspiration and cultural adaptation, often influenced by economic status.

Q2: Westernisation is often just about adoption of western attire and lifestyle. Are there other aspects to being westernised or Is that about modernisation? Discuss.
Ans: M.N. Srinivas defines westernisation as the changes in Indian society and culture resulting from over 150 years of British rule. This includes shifts at various levels, such as:

• Technology
• Institutions
• Ideology
• Values

Westernisation can be seen in different forms:

• Emergence of a westernised sub-culture among a minority of Indians who first encountered Western culture.
• Influence on Indian intellectuals who adopted new ways of thinking and lifestyles.
• General spread of western traits, including technology, clothing, and food.

It is important to note that westernisation does not always equate to the adoption of modern values like democracy and equality. For instance:

• Western art and literature have influenced Indian traditions.
• Examples include the portrayal of families in art, reflecting Western family structures.

Srinivas suggested that while lower castes sought to be sanskritised, upper castes aimed for westernisation. However, this generalisation is complex:

• The Thiyyas in Kerala, not considered upper caste, actively pursued westernisation.
• Elite Thiyyas adopted British culture to promote a more cosmopolitan lifestyle.
• Western education has opened new opportunities for various groups.

In summary, westernisation encompasses more than just adopting attire and lifestyle; it involves a broader cultural transformation influenced by Western ideas and practices.

Q3: Write short notes on:
(a) Rites and secularisation
(b) Caste and secularisation
(c) Gender and sanskritisation
Ans: (a) Rites and secularisation:

• Secularisation refers to the decline in the influence of religion.
• Indicators include:
  • Participation in religious organisations (e.g., church attendance).
  • Social and material influence of these organisations.
  • Personal religious beliefs.
• However, the idea that modern societies are becoming more secular is not entirely accurate.
• In India, many rituals serve secular purposes, such as:
  • Facilitating social interactions.
  • Allowing families to display wealth, clothing, and jewellery.
• Recently, the economic, political, and social aspects of rituals have become more prominent.

(b) Caste and secularisation:

• Traditionally, the caste system in India was linked to religious beliefs about purity and pollution.
• Today, caste associations and political parties advocate for their interests, indicating a secularisation of caste.
• Politicians often mobilise caste identities to gain power, adapting to various social groups.
• This evolution changes the form of caste and its role in society.

(c) Gender and Sanskritisation:

• Sanskritisation tends to reinforce traditional roles for women while promoting more liberal views for men.
• Supporters often prefer women to remain within the home, fulfilling roles as mothers, sisters, and daughters.
• Traditional marriage practices, often requiring parental consent, are favoured.