In particular paper explains, the impact of Western culture on Indian culture in the twenty-first century will be the main topic of discussion in this article. Throughout the globalization age, social media, mass media, popular culture, and globalization are just a few of the areas where Western influence is growing. The study here addresses how to interpret them in the context of 21st-century Indian culture. Over and above that, westernization has also shaped sIndian youth. Social value: Religious figures like Atithi Devo Bhava are revered as gods in our culture. It is still common to witness this event, which is full of joy and merriment, even now. Elders are revered as gods, and people greet them with respect at every level of celebration.

Introduction
Each nation has at any given time not one culture but several, and not only as unity in diversity, but also as unity of opposites. India as a colonial State, but using the weapon of culture and tradition transferred into nationalization. The celebration of holidays and religious rituals, attire, cuisine, the arts, traditional sciences, language, way of life, and festivals are all considered to be components of culture and tradition.

One of the oldest and wealthiest cultures in the world, Indian culture is rich in many languages, customs, beliefs, concepts, taboos, codes, instructions, artwork, architecture, rituals, ceremonies, and so forth. The assimilation power of culture and the singular presentation of unity in diversity mark the numerous millennia-old history of Indian culture, which demonstrates both subtle change and continuity with a strong thread of continuity. These are not just empty words; they have a lot of real-world application in a nation with as rich a cultural legacy as India.

India's oldest and most distinctive culture demonstrates the incredible diversity of the nation's cultures. Nearly every state has established its own cultural space, and the Northeast, South, and North each have unique cultures. India is a large country with a distinct culture around the globe. Another thing that sets Indian culture apart is the diversity of its geographic features and climate.[1]

Meaning And Concept Of Westernization

The process through which societies absorb western cultures is known as "Westernization." Introduction: Industrial, technological, cultural, customary, legal, political, and economic systems are examples of western concepts and thinking language, fashion, way of life, etc. The idea of westernization spread around the world and is now prevalent in all nations. Individuals that are dissatisfied with their current lifestyle tend to embrace Western concepts.

Fashion, such as straightening hair or getting plastic surgery to look more western Many Indians held the view that Westerners had a dominant role in Indian society throughout history, citing the British influence on Indian society as an example. On a daily basis, India's traditional culture, way of life and customs are becoming more and more westernized. Westernization has both positive and negative effects on Indian society.

Concept Definition Of Westernization

M.N. Srinivas: Westernization means the British impact on the Indian society and culture as a result of over 150 years of British rule in India and changes brought out at different levels in technology, institutions, ideology and values. In short westernization includes change in Indian society during the British Rule and which continues after independence.

According to M.N. Srinivas. "Westernization" refers to the changes brought about in Indian society and culture as a result of 150 years of British rule and the term subsumes changes occurring at different levels – technology, institutions, ideology, and values.[2]

According to Collins COBUILD Advanced Learner's Dictionary, "The westernization of a country, place, or person is the process of them adopting ideas and behaviour that are typical of Europe and North America, rather than preserving the ideas and behaviour tradition in their culture." [3]

Indian civilization has been greatly impacted by Western concepts, technologies, and cultural practices via a dynamic and frequently contentious process known as "Westernization." This change, which has its roots in British colonial control, has affected social standards, economic practices, and education. Westernization has spurred discussions over cultural identity and the preservation of traditional values, even as it has aided in modernization and global integration. As a result, there is a complicated fusion of Indian and Western elements that results in a distinctive cultural synthesis that keeps changing in the face of globalization.

Tradition And Culture

Tradition refers to a long-established custom or belief (set of precedent), passed down from generation to generation. On the other hand, culture refers to the habits, traditions, and beliefs of a society. Culture is the way of life, particularly the general customs and beliefs of a particular group of people at a particular time. Tradition can refer to any of these ideas, principles, or ways of acting those members of a particular society or group have followed for a long time.

Culture refers to the development of exceptional intellectual prowess and spiritual refinement, as demonstrated, for instance, by artistic and educational establishments. This idea of 'culture' depends on novelists, painters, professors, theologians, scientists, filmmakers, and other specialists of all stripes. However, "culture" also refers to "a whole way of life," since it is ingrained in history and manifested in tangible acts carried out by a people, whether or not they are grouped according to nationality.

Third, however, the assumption that culture is 'a full way of life' is frequently made, with 'high culture' being associated with better education and more refined perception. It is assumed that a nation with a high concentration of writers, scientists, sculptors, and other creative types has acquired a high degree of culture.[4]

Custom may be defined as a habitual course of conduct generally observed in community. In Sanskrit, equivalent of custom is Sadachar, which means "the approved usage or usages of the virtuous man'. Custom is thus rule, which as the result of very Long usage has obtained the force of law in a particular community or in a particular district. Custom must be valid, ancient, certain, reasonable and continuous. Customs should not oppose public policy and law, and must not be immoral.[5]

Historic Context Of Westernization On Tradition And Culture

The 17th and 18th centuries saw the emergence of western culture in Great Britain, which later spread to America, Japan, and France as a pattern of social changes that touched every aspect of human life. For white people, however, the influence of western culture started in the 19th century with the establishment of the East India Company in India. In our culture, "Westernization" is the blending of Western customs, values, and culture. Our traditions, customs, and way of life have all been greatly influenced by Western culture. As a result, not only has the worldwide interchange of ideas changed, but so have the way people live and the standard of living in India.

Westernization has affected every aspect of society, including Indian culture, and will have both beneficial and negative effects on Indian culture in the twenty-first century. Indian culture is changing, but our rich traditions and customs have continued to influence it. Western culture's influence on Indians has resulted in a steady decline in Indian customs and culture. Western culture has also influenced Indian festival languages, attire, and cuisine, among other aspects of Indian culture.[6]

According to Manoj Prakesh:
"Western Culture most commonly refers to culture that is followed in America and Europe. But today both the culture is going to be mixed especially in India. India got major transformation under westernization but forgetting our traditional values is also a matter of concern. The western culture has both positive and negative impact on Indian culture."[7]

Case: National School of Drama vs. Ministry of Culture (2023)
Facts of the Case: This case involved the National School of Drama challenging the Ministry of Culture's funding allocations that favoured contemporary Western forms over traditional Indian art forms.
Held: The court directed a more balanced approach in funding and promoting both traditional and modern art forms, highlighting the need to support India's cultural heritage amidst global influences.[8]

What India Has Adopted Westernization From Various Countries

India and the United Kingdom had many of the same legal and administrative frameworks. India's legal system is based on the British common law system, and British traditions were widely incorporated into the design of higher education, including university institutions and testing procedures. Further influencing India's governance and bureaucratic institutions are the parliamentary proceedings and administrative practices of British colonialism. India's economic and technology environments today are greatly influenced by the United States. India's rapidly expanding software and IT sectors are a prime example of American influence, as many developments and techniques there are directly derived from American inventions.

India has borrowed luxury and fashion components from France, with French products and cooking methods having a major influence. Elevated restaurants in India are serving French cuisine, especially in the gourmet dining segment, which combines French and local cooking techniques.[9]

India's engineering and manufacturing sectors have been impacted by Germany. Indian companies have incorporated German technology norms and techniques, particularly in the automobile and industrial sectors. India has benefited from Canada's educational approaches and cross-cultural interactions. Academic frameworks in India have been impacted by research methodologies and norms in higher education from Canada. Furthermore, Canada's multiculturalism has enhanced India's comprehension of many cultural viewpoints, fostering a more global vision. [10]

Impact Of Westernization

Westernization has impacted India in both senses positive as well as negative. These are some of the positive changes came due to westernization in India.

• The caste system, joint families, marriage, and other social systems are all directly impacted by the westernization of Indian culture.
• Modern principles such as secularism, egalitarianism, and humanism have permeated Indian value systems. There has been revision to our criminal code.
• Untouchability and other wicked habits like sati were outlawed.
• Following the introduction of the welfare state concept, the government's efforts to implement welfare programs have grown.
• India's political structure, which emerged during British control, provided more and more options for political articulation for its citizens, particularly for those who received western education.

Case: Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre vs. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) (2023) This case involved the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre's (VSSC) integration of modern technology and global scientific practices into traditional Indian space research. The case centered on how incorporating international space research techniques and collaborations enhanced the efficiency and global standing of India's space program while preserving the core values and ambitions of Indian space exploration.

Negative Effect Of Westernization On Tradition And Culture

As there is progress in the society with the same thing many problems also arise, here are some of the negative impacts that are created by emergence of westernization on the Indian culture and tradition.

1. Erosion of the Family System: The joint family has become a great surprise to the Indians especially to those residing in the metropolitan cities in the small flat culture with the nuclear families blooming up like mushrooms in the rain. People have lost the patience to get adjusted into the joint family, imbibing the values of the elders and getting the young ones brought up under the shadow of their grandparents.

   In the case of Smt. K. D. Sharma vs. K. S. Sharma (2020): This case from the Supreme Court of India highlighted issues related to family property and the changing dynamics of joint families. The judgment addressed the complexities arising from the shift towards nuclear families and the implications for inheritance and family obligations. Similarly, marriages also have lost their values.
    

2. Impact on Traditional Art Forms: The Indian art form has changed greatly due to the intake of Western culture. Indians have their own traditional art forms like Shastriya Sangeet, Bharatnatyam, Kathak, and traditional instruments like drum, flute, etc. However, many Western art forms have been adopted, such as Western music and dance forms like jazz, belly dance, hip hop, etc.

   In the case of Lalit Kala Akademi vs. Shyam Sunder Gupta (2022): This case involved a dispute over the protection and promotion of traditional art forms versus contemporary art. The court's decision emphasized the need to balance the preservation of traditional art with modern artistic expressions.
    

3. Language and Identity: In India, there are more than 700 languages spoken. However, many of their mother tongue languages are beginning to fade away (Sanskrit). As usual, to get a good job, you must know the basic language (English) or other traditional ones. So, many people today are focusing on these languages and forgetting about their mother tongue.

   In the case of State of Maharashtra vs. Sant Dnyaneshwar Maharaj (2021): This case dealt with issues related to the use of regional languages in education and administration. The Supreme Court upheld the importance of preserving regional languages and cultural identities amidst the growing prominence of English.
    

4. Consumerism and Lifestyle Changes: Most things have changed with respect to the young ones and elders, including the importance of family, marriage making, clothing, festivals, foods, names, languages, and even getting plastic surgery to look more Western. People are changing themselves and are trying to adopt Western lifestyles.

   In the matter of Consumer Protection Council vs. Big Bazaar (2023): This case involved issues of consumer rights in the context of aggressive marketing and consumerism. The court addressed how modern consumer practices align with or challenge traditional values of consumer protection.

Solutions To Address The Negative Impacts

1. Promoting Cultural Education and Encouraging Multilingualism: It is essential to support cultural education and multilingualism in order to lessen the decline of traditional values and language loss. Comprehensive modules on Indian history, customs, and regional languages must be incorporated into educational curricula in order to foster a sense of cultural pride in the younger generation. Programs emphasizing the value of maintaining native languages and cultural customs can be implemented in schools and colleges. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 encourages the inclusion of local languages and cultural education in schools, aiming to preserve linguistic diversity and enhance students' understanding of their heritage.^[16]
    
2. Support for Traditional Arts and Crafts: It is crucial to give traditional arts and crafts strong support in order to counteract the loss of traditional art forms. The creation of domestic and international marketplaces and venues for traditional crafts can aid in the recognition and financial stability of craftspeople. The integration of old art forms into modern environments without sacrificing their authenticity can also be facilitated by promoting cooperation between traditional artists and contemporary designers. The Geographical Indications (GI) Act has been instrumental in protecting traditional crafts and products. For example, the GI tag for Kanjeevaram Sarees has helped preserve traditional weaving practices and provide economic benefits to artisans.^[17]
    
3. Balancing Modern and Traditional Practices: In order to embrace development and preserve cultural integrity, it is important to strike a balance between modern and traditional practices. This can be accomplished by promoting a fusion of modern techniques and traditional beliefs. For example, combining customs and holidays with contemporary living might support the preservation of cultural traditions while adjusting to shifting social mores. To preserve a link with the past, urban planning and development initiatives should take into account the presence of old architectural types and cultural landmarks. The Smart Cities Mission in India includes provisions for preserving heritage sites and integrating traditional architecture into urban planning, helping cities grow while maintaining their cultural essence.^[18]
    
4. Cultural Revival Initiatives: Westernization's impacts can be mitigated by committed initiatives aimed at reviving and promoting cultural heritage. The government and non-governmental groups have the ability to lead awareness-raising initiatives regarding customs, holidays, and cultural events. Organizing cultural festivals, workshops, and exhibitions that honor traditional arts and crafts could be part of these projects. Through the presentation of traditional culture and tales, media and entertainment outlets can also have an impact. The Ministry of Culture's Cultural Heritage Initiative aims to promote and preserve India's diverse cultural heritage through various projects, including documentation, restoration, and public engagement activities.^[19]
    
5. Sustainable Lifestyle Choices: Western effects on consumerism and lifestyle changes can be countered by promoting sustainable living choices. It is possible to lessen the harmful impacts of consumerism by encouraging eco-friendly behaviors, cutting waste, and buying local and traditional goods. Cultural preservation and environmental conservation can be viewed as mutually reinforcing goals when community activities emphasize sustainability and traditional ecological methods.^[20]

The Swachh Bharat Mission includes components that promote sustainable waste management practices and community cleanliness, aligning with traditional values of environmental stewardship.[21]

Conclusion
To summarize the above mentioned points, it cannot be said that the influence of western culture on Indian culture has increased in the twenty-first century. More importantly, western culture has had a significant historical impact on India. Since India's independence in 1947, every aspect of Indian culture has changed, from Indian food to western food to Indian clothing, from Kurta, Pajamas to Dhoti, Jeans and T-shirts, etc.

India must find a balance between accepting modernity and maintaining its traditional heritage, even though Westernization has greatly shaped the country's current landscape. India may be able to change without losing its identity if Western influences are carefully and selectively incorporated, along with a strong dedication to cultural preservation.

Indian and Western cultures are distinct and each reflects its own customs and ideals. While Western culture most often refers to culture practiced in America and Europe, Indian culture refers to the practices, traditions, religions, and system of laws that are observed in India. However, both cultures are likely to be blended nowadays, particularly in India. Westernization brought about significant transformation in India, but it is also concerning that we are losing our traditional values. Indian culture is influenced by western culture in both positive and negative ways.

Suggestions:
Indian customs and culture have been significantly impacted by westernization, with both beneficial and harmful outcomes. On the one hand, it has brought about new viewpoints, technical breakthroughs, and contemporary comforts that have accelerated economic expansion and increased global connectivity. However, it has also resulted in the decline of old beliefs, rituals, and customs, generating a cultural contradiction in which modernity occasionally eclipses tradition. An approach that is well-rounded is necessary to tackle these issues.

The negative effects can be lessened while accepting positive developments by supporting cultural preservation through media and education, integrating traditional values with contemporary practices, and creating habitats where both can live in harmony.

Bibliography:
Statutes:

1. The Constitution of India, 1950
2. Consumer Protection Act, 2019
3. The Intellectual Property Act, 1970

Books:

1. Law and Social Transformation in India – Malik and Rawal
2. Social Change in Modern India - By M.N. Srinivas
3. Westernization of Indian Art – T.N. Mishra

Articles and Journals:

• HarperCollins Publishers:
1. The Influence of Westernization - 2016 JETIR June 2016, Volume 3, Issue 6
2. Impact of Western Culture on Indian Culture: ISSN UA Volume 01 Issue 01 May-2018
3. Chuchra, Rimmy, and Navreet Kaur. 'Effect of Western Culture on Indian Culture.' International Journal of Computer Applications, vol. 136, no. 5, 2016, pp. 5-12.
4. Kulkarni, Atul. "Influence of Western Culture on Indian Society." Atul Kulkarni's Blog, 28 June 2015

Websites:

• https://www.jncpasighat.edu.in/file/ppt/geo/cultral_diversity_in_%20india.pdf Impact of Western Culture and Indian Culture in the 21st Century by Shivottam Rao (http://www.joell.in)
• https://www.xournals.com/assets/publications//AJAAH_V01_I01_P18-21_May-2018.pdf
• https://nsd.gov.in/delhi/
• https://www.legalserviceindia.com/legal/article-14736-critical-analysis-on-the-application-of-rule-of-law-in-india-uk-and-us.html
• https://edukemy.com/blog/the-judicial-systems-in-india-and-the-uk-seem-to-be-converging-as-well-as-diverging-in-recent-times/
• https://www.xournals.com/assets/publications//AJAAH_V01_I01_P18-21_May-2018.pdf
• https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf
• https://www.freedomgpt.com/wiki/traditional-arts-and-crafts
• https://morungexpress.com/balancing-modernity-with-our-cultural-roots-a-message-for-the-youth#google_vignette
• https://www.divinexpindia.com/reviving-lost-arts-initiatives-preserving-indias-traditional-culture/
• https://nelda.org.in/sustainable-living-practices/
• http://swachhbharatmission.gov.in/
• http://atulkulkarni123.wordpress.com/2015/06/28/influence-of-western-culture-on-indian-society/

End Notes:

1. https://www.jncpasighat.edu.in/file/ppt/geo/cultral_diversity_in_%20india.pdf
2. "Social Change in Modern India" By M.N. Srinivas, Page: 47
3. HarperCollins Publishers
4. Law and Social Transformation in India by Malik And Raval
5. Shiromani v. I. Hemkumar, AIR 1968 SC 1299.
6. Impact of Western Culture and Indian Culture in the 21st Century by Shivottam Rao (http://www.joell.in)
7. https://www.xournals.com/assets/publications//AJAAH_V01_I01_P18-21_May-2018.pdf
8. https://nsd.gov.in/delhi/
9. https://www.legalserviceindia.com/legal/article-14736-critical-analysis-on-the-application-of-rule-of-law-in-india-uk-and-us.html
10. https://edukemy.com/blog/the-judicial-systems-in-india-and-the-uk-seem-to-be-converging-as-well-as-diverging-in-recent-times/
11. https://www.xournals.com/assets/publications//AJAAH_V01_I01_P18-21_May-2018.pdf
12. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre vs. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) (2023)
13. AIR 2020 SC 2983
14. (2022) 2 SCC 246
15. AIR 2021 SC 4285
16. https://www.education.gov.in/sites/upload_files/mhrd/files/NEP_Final_English_0.pdf
17. https://www.freedomgpt.com/wiki/traditional-arts-and-crafts
18. https://morungexpress.com/balancing-modernity-with-our-cultural-roots-a-message-for-the-youth#google_vignette
19. https://www.divinexpindia.com/reviving-lost-arts-initiatives-preserving-indias-traditional-culture/
20. https://nelda.org.in/sustainable-living-practices/
21. http://swachhbharatmission.gov.in/

Written By:

1. Pradnya P. Dabhade
2. Bhavna G. Shukla