Introduction
The Indian diaspora refers to people of Indian origin who live outside India. This includes both Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs). Despite being scattered across different parts of the world, the Indian diaspora shares deep cultural connections with each other and with India. These cultural linkages include language, religion, festivals, food, music, films, and traditional practices. In this answer, we will examine the key cultural linkages that connect the Indian diaspora globally in simple language.
1. Language and Literature
Language is a strong cultural bond among members of the Indian diaspora. Many Indian-origin communities continue to speak their regional languages such as Hindi, Tamil, Gujarati, Telugu, Punjabi, and Malayalam.
In places like Mauritius, Trinidad, Fiji, and Suriname, descendants of indentured laborers still use Bhojpuri, Awadhi, or Tamil in daily life. Indian language newspapers, radio programs, and books are published in many countries to keep the language alive.
Indian literature, especially works by diasporic authors like Salman Rushdie, Jhumpa Lahiri, and V.S. Naipaul, also connects global readers of Indian origin through shared cultural experiences.
2. Religion and Spiritual Practices
Religion is another important aspect of cultural identity for the Indian diaspora. Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Christianity are practiced widely across diasporic communities. Temples, mosques, gurudwaras, and churches serve as community centers and spiritual homes.
For example, Hindu temples in the United States, Canada, and the UK organize religious festivals, spiritual discourses, yoga classes, and cultural events. These activities help preserve traditional religious practices and pass them on to younger generations.
3. Festivals and Celebrations
Indian festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm across the world by the diaspora. These events help reinforce cultural identity and bring communities together.
Major festivals celebrated abroad include:
- Diwali: Celebrated in the USA, UK, South Africa, Singapore, and Fiji
- Holi: Popular among youth in Europe, Australia, and North America
- Navratri: Garba and Dandiya nights are organized by Gujarati communities worldwide
- Onam, Baisakhi, Eid, and Christmas: Celebrated with equal joy by regional and religious groups
These celebrations are often open to people from other cultures as well, promoting cultural exchange and mutual respect.
4. Food and Culinary Traditions
Indian cuisine is one of the strongest cultural bonds among the diaspora. Families continue to cook traditional dishes and share recipes passed down through generations.
Indian restaurants, grocery stores, and spice markets can be found in almost every major city around the world. Dishes like biryani, dosas, samosas, and butter chicken have become popular globally.
Cooking shows, YouTube channels, and online recipe groups allow the diaspora to share culinary traditions and stay connected with Indian food culture.
5. Bollywood and Indian Entertainment
Indian movies, music, and television shows are a major source of cultural connection for the diaspora. Bollywood films are popular among Indians living abroad and help keep them emotionally connected to India.
Streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Hotstar make Indian content easily available worldwide. Indian film stars, songs, and dance styles like Bhangra and Bharatanatyam are admired globally.
6. Traditional Attire and Art
Wearing traditional clothes like sarees, salwar kameez, kurta-pajama, and lehenga during weddings, festivals, and cultural events helps maintain Indian identity. Diasporic communities also promote Indian art forms like classical dance (Kathak, Bharatanatyam), music (Carnatic, Hindustani), painting (Madhubani, Warli), and crafts through cultural programs and workshops.
7. Marriage and Family Customs
Many Indian diaspora families continue to follow traditional marriage rituals, arranged marriages, and joint family values. Despite adopting some modern practices, Indian customs still shape family life abroad. Online matrimonial platforms and community networks also help in finding Indian-origin partners living in different parts of the world.
8. Diasporic Associations and Organizations
To maintain cultural ties, Indian communities abroad form cultural associations, religious groups, language forums, and alumni networks. These organizations conduct cultural programs, language classes, religious events, and celebrations.
Examples:
- Gujarati Samaj in the UK
- Kerala Association in the Gulf
- Sikh temples in Canada
- Tamil Sangams in the USA
These groups also provide emotional and social support to members.
9. Digital Platforms and Social Media
Technology has made it easier for the diaspora to stay connected with Indian culture. Social media, WhatsApp groups, YouTube channels, and digital events allow people to share cultural content instantly. Online pujas, virtual Diwali parties, and online language classes are now common in the diaspora world.
Conclusion
The Indian diaspora may live far from their homeland, but cultural linkages keep them emotionally and socially connected to India and to each other. These cultural ties—through language, religion, festivals, food, films, and family customs—form a strong bridge between past and present, tradition and modernity. They help preserve Indian identity in foreign lands and promote Indian culture on the global stage.