The advantages and disadvantages of globalization on Sri Lankan culture and educational systems and its effects..... - !

  The advantages and disadvantages of globalization on Sri Lankan culture and educational systems and its effects..... - !

 

The advantages and disadvantages of globalization on Sri Lankan culture and educational systems and its effects..... - !

The advantages and disadvantages of globalization on Sri Lankan culture and educational systems and its effects..... - !

Introduction

 

Globalization is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that refers to the increasing integration between countries, cultures, and economies. It is driven by advances in communication, transportation, and trade. In the post-2000 period, as Sri Lanka has further integrated its economy with the world, globalization has had a profound impact on both the country’s cultural and educational systems. These impacts have had both positive and negative consequences, and have greatly transformed the social fabric of Sri Lanka.

   

Cultural Influences

 

Sri Lankan culture is a unique and vibrant blend shaped over centuries by its rich history, geographical location, and diverse religious and ethnic influences. It is a fascinating blend of the traditions, customs, arts, beliefs, and cuisines of the island's many ethnic groups.

   

Some of the important aspects of Sri Lankan culture are given below

 

1. Diversity and Ethnic Groups

The main reason for the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka is its many ethnic groups

Ø Sinhalese

The Sinhalese, the majority ethnic group of the country, follow Buddhism. Their culture is rich in Pali literature, Buddhist philosophy, and unique art forms. Kandyan Dance. Mural paintings, sculptures, etc. are an important part of their culture.

Ø Tamils

The Tamils ​​are the second largest ethnic group in Sri Lanka. They mostly follow Hinduism. Their culture has deep connections with Sangam literature, Dravidian arts, classical music (Carnatic music). and dance (Bharatanatyam).

Ø Sri Lankan Muslims

Muslims who follow Islamic traditions have a unique culture with influences from Arab, Indian, and Malay cultures. Their food habits, clothing, and festivals reflect Islamic beliefs.

 

2. Religion

Religion is central to the culture in Sri Lanka.

Ø Buddhism

The official religion of the country and the majority religion of the Sinhalese. The teachings of Buddha, temples, and Buddhist festivals

                 For example:- Vesak are deeply embedded in the culture.

Ø Hinduism

The majority religion of the Tamils. Temples, rituals, and Hindu festivals (Diwali, Pongal) are an important part of Tamil culture.

Ø Islam

The religion of Sri Lankan Muslims. Mosques, festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are part of their culture.

 

Ø Christianity

Includes Roman Catholic and Protestant denominations. Churches and Christian festivals (Christmas, Easter) play an important role in the island's culture.

 

3. Arts and Crafts

Sri Lankan culture is best expressed in its arts and crafts.

Ø Kandy dance

A major feature of Sinhalese culture, it is a vibrant dance with colorful costumes and traditional instruments.

Ø Classical music

Sri Lanka's musical traditions include Carnatic music (Tamil). Buddhist music, and folk songs (Sinhalese)

Ø Wall paintings and sculptures

The paintings and sculptures found in ancient Buddhist monasteries and caves are evidence of Sri Lanka's artistic heritage.

Ø Handicrafts

Many handicrafts such as wood carving, pottery, jewellery, betel nut carving, coconut crafts and lace work are popular in Sri Lanka.

 

4. Food

Sri Lankan cuisine is as diverse as its culture.

Ø Rice and curries

A major part of Sri Lankan cuisine. Various curries (fish, chicken, vegetables) are served with rice.

Ø Coconut milk

A key ingredient in many Sri Lankan dishes.

Ø Spices

Sri Lankan food is spicy and flavoured with a wide variety of spices.

 

Ø Sambal

A common side dish made with coconut, chillies, and lemon juice. Unique dishes such as kothu roti, idiyappam, appam, and pittu are also popular in Sri Lanka.

 

5. Dress

Ø Saram (vetti)

A traditional dress worn by men.

Ø Sari

A traditional dress worn by women, especially on ceremonial occasions.

Ø Salomi

The traditional dress of Sri Lankan Muslim women.

 

6. Family and Social Values

Family is an important part of Sri Lankan culture. Respect for elders, hospitality, and social harmony are important social values ​​in Sri Lanka.

 

7. Festivals and Celebrations

Sri Lanka celebrates many religious and cultural festivals.

Ø Sinhala and Tamil New Year

Celebrated in the month of April, this is an important national festival.

Ø Veshak

 which commemorates the birth, death, and parinirvana of Buddha, is celebrated by Buddhists

Ø Diwali

Diwali, the festival of lights, is celebrated by Hindus.

Ø Eid al-Fitr (Feast of the End of the Fast)

The end of the month of Ramadan, is celebrated by Muslims

 

Ø Perahera

Many traditional processions and festivals, such as the Kandy Perahera, are celebrated.

 

 

Sri Lankan culture is a beautiful blend of these aspects.  This reflects the island's long history and its diverse population.

 

Positive Effects

 

Globalization has given Sri Lanka access to new ideas, technologies, and perspectives. This has led to a pattern of cultural exchange and development.

 

1. Increased diversity and tolerance

Globalization has led to the emergence of diverse cultural expressions. Western music, films, and fashion trends have become widely known in Sri Lanka. This has led to a trend, especially among the youth, to absorb global cultures and mix them with local traditions to create new cultural forms.

                   For example:-

Sri Lankan pop music and films have absorbed Western styles and created a unique identity. This has promoted tolerance and diversity, and people are exposed to different lifestyles and ideas.

 

2. Information and Knowledge

With the advent of the Internet and satellite television.Sri Lankans have easy access to global news, entertainment, and educational content.  It increases global awareness and helps to absorb new ideas and technologies. Social media also helps to learn about global cultural trends.

   

3. Cultural Export and Recognition

Globalization has also provided an opportunity to take Sri Lanka’s unique cultural elements to the global stage. Traditional goods such as tea, gemstones, and handicrafts have found new consumers in global markets. Sri Lankan dance, music, and cuisine have also gained recognition at international art and food festivals. This enhances the country’s cultural identity.

 

4. Technological Advances

The technological advances that have come with globalization, especially the internet and mobile technology, have opened up new avenues for cultural expression.

                     For example:-

Sri Lankan artists use platforms like YouTube to share their works with a global audience. This contributes to the global diffusion of culture and helps local artists gain international recognition.

 

Adverse Effects

 

Along with the positive effects of globalization, there are some significant challenges.  They pose a threat to Sri Lanka’s cultural identity

 

1.Erosion of traditional values ​​and customs

The dominance of Western culture is leading to the erosion of traditional Sri Lankan values ​​and customs. Dress codes. Family structures, and social norms have changed. Among the youth Western-style clothing, music, sound, and entertainment are becoming more popular than the traditional lifestyle. This is leading to a generation gap and weakening cultural continuity.

 

2.Consumer culture and materialism

Globalization has led to the spread of consumer culture. It promotes materialism and instant gratification. Advertisements and global brands have invaded the Sri market. People are tempted to buy more goods and adopt a Western lifestyle. This can lead to debt and social inequality. It also threatens the traditional frugal lifestyle.

 

 3. Loss of Identity and Global Monoculture

Local identity is also at risk due to the spread of global culture. Globally focused films, music, and television are becoming more popular than Sri Lanka's unique cultural products, and local art and creativity are being suppressed. This will eventually lead to the creation of a global monoculture where local identities will fade.

 

4. Threat to Language and Art Forms

As the English language is increasingly being given importance as part of globalization, indigenous languages ​​such as Sinhala and Tamil are under threat. Especially in higher education and corporate circles, English is becoming the dominant language. This may also affect the development of traditional literature and art forms.

 

 

 The advantages and disadvantages of globalization on Sri Lankan culture and educational systems and its effects..... - !