Bangladesh's cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Bengal region, shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences over centuries. The country has a unique blend of art, literature, music, dance, and cuisine that reflects its diverse culture. The Bengali language and the traditions of 'Pohela Boishakh' (Bengali New Year) are central to national identity. However, cultural erosion threatens these traditions as external influences grow.
Cultural erosion refers to the gradual loss or weakening of traditional customs, practices, languages, and beliefs due to internal and external influences. In Bangladesh, a nation rich in history and heritage, cultural erosion is becoming increasingly evident due to globalization, rapid urbanization, digitalization, and socio-political changes.
The major causes of cultural erosion are analyzed below: Globalization and Western influence: The expansion of Western culture through media, fashion, and consumer products has significantly impacted traditional Bangladeshi culture. Western clothing, fast food, and entertainment have become increasingly popular among younger generations, often at the expense of traditional attire, cuisine, and pastimes. This shift leads to a decline in local cultural expressions and a homogenization of lifestyles.
Digitalization and social media: The rise of digital technology and social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram has facilitated the spread of foreign cultural elements, overshadowing indigenous traditions. The popularity of Hollywood and Bollywood movies, K-pop, and Western music has contributed to the diminishing influence of Bangladeshi folk and classical music. Additionally, online communication in English has reduced the use of the Bengali language among urban youth.
Urbanization and migration: Rapid urbanization and rural-to-urban migration have disrupted traditional community structures. As people move to cities for economic opportunities, they often abandon rural customs, traditional crafts, and communal festivals. Moreover, Bangladeshi migrants abroad often face cultural assimilation, leading to a weakening of their connection with native customs.
Education system and language shift: The increasing preference for English-medium schools over Bengali-medium and madrasah education has influenced linguistic and cultural shifts. A growing proportion of urban youth are more proficient in English than Bengali, leading to a decline in traditional literature and poetry appreciation. This linguistic shift has long-term consequences for national identity and cultural continuity.
Commercialization and consumerism: Corporate globalization has commodified culture, reducing traditional arts and festivals to marketable spectacles rather than authentic expressions of heritage. For instance, Pohela Boishakh celebrations have become commercialized, with businesses capitalizing on the event rather than preserving its cultural essence.
Cultural erosion refers to the gradual loss or weakening of traditional
customs, practices, languages, and beliefs due to internal and external
influences.
The impact of cultural erosion is highlighted below: Loss of indigenous knowledge and traditions: Traditional practices like nakshi kantha (embroidered quilts), folk music, and indigenous agricultural techniques are at risk of disappearing as younger generations lose interest in learning them. This loss impacts historical continuity.
Weakening of national identity: A strong cultural identity fosters unity and national pride. The dilution of Bangladeshi traditions due to foreign influences can weaken national consciousness, leading to identity crises among young people. Decline in language and literature: Bengali, the language for which Bangladesh fought during the 1952 Language Movement, is increasingly being sidelined in professional and academic spheres. This shift threatens the rich literary heritage of the country, including the works of Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam.
Homogenization of culture: Cultural erosion results in a homogenized global culture where unique traditions and customs are replaced by standardized global trends. This phenomenon reduces cultural diversity and the richness of human civilization.
The strategies for cultural preservation can be as follows: Strengthening cultural education: Educational institutions should integrate cultural studies into their curricula to instill a sense of pride in Bangladeshi heritage among students. This includes teaching traditional music, dance, literature, and history. Promoting Indigenous art and media: The government and private sectors should support local artists, filmmakers, and musicians by providing platforms for their work. Television channels and streaming services should feature more Bangladeshi content to counterbalance foreign influences.
Encouraging language use: Policies should be implemented to promote the use of Bengali in workplaces, educational institutions, and digital media. Literary festivals, book fairs, and poetry competitions can help revitalize interest in Bengali literature.
Preserving traditional crafts: Efforts should be made to protect and promote traditional handicrafts by providing artisans with financial support and market access. Government initiatives can encourage the use of local textiles, such as jamdani and muslin, to keep traditional weaving techniques alive.
Strengthening cultural institutions: Museums, cultural centers, and heritage sites should receive adequate funding and modernization to attract younger audiences. Digitizing historical documents and folklore can also help preserve them for future generations.
Cultural erosion in Bangladesh poses a significant challenge to preserving the nation's rich heritage. Globalization, digitalization, urbanization, and educational shifts are among the primary drivers of this phenomenon. However, with conscious efforts in education, media, policy, and community engagement, Bangladesh can safeguard its cultural identity for future generations. Addressing cultural erosion requires a balanced approach that embraces modernization while preserving traditional values and practices.
The writer is an Additional Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs
