Rise of Nationalism in the Indian diaspora.
Now, globalisation and migration have intertwined and reshaped cultural landscapes globally.
You must have heard of this common idiom, “Globalisation is a double-edged sword.” It connects cultures and economies while challenging our identities and traditions. It is multifaceted and shaped heavily by technological innovations. These technological innovations have significantly transformed migration patterns and processes, serving as a powerful tool for individuals seeking new opportunities. It has delivered us a world unimaginable to many.
Now, globalisation and migration have intertwined and reshaped cultural landscapes globally. In this line of thought, Arjun Appadurai has discussed how migrants, those who move away from their home, have become increasingly involved with their homeland; they try to scrap and cherish any existing roots to stay connected to their culture.
Most migrants develop a “warped” sense of nationhood and begin to face challenges of adapting to a new culture. Their original identity is constantly threatened, and they are left to navigate the complexities of a new social and political landscape. In this way, migrants feel that they are “between” two cultures, which is comforted by nostalgia for their home, national identity and belonging.
This yearning can become increasingly pronounced as individuals seek to reaffirm their cultural roots. As they navigate the complexities of dual identities, the longing for a singular narrative can lead to heightened feelings of nationalism.
This nationalism often emerges from a desire to preserve cultural heritage, especially in the face of globalisation and cultural dilution. As people become more aware of the threats to their traditions, values, and way of life, they may grow more protective and defensive of their national identity. This protective instinct can manifest in various ways, from celebrating national holidays and traditions to advocating for policies prioritising national culture and identity.
An example of this was seen during the 2014 and 2019 Indian general elections, where the Indian diaspora showed support to Modi because of a desire to reconnect with their Indian roots and assert their national identity from abroad. Non-Resident Indians were mobilising through various platforms to participate in the democratic process.
As a result, NRIs displayed an increasingly nationalistic sentiment during elections, driven by the dual desires to celebrate their Indian identity and to influence the future of the nation they hold dear, even from afar.