Theme of Republic Day: "Virasat aur Vikas" (Heritage and Progress)

This theme invites reflection on the evolution of Indian identity post-liberalization and the shift from valuing foreign goods to embracing Indianness. The changing dynamics in food and clothing are key indicators of this evolution.

Clothing Trends

• Westernization Expectations:
  In the 1990s, global consultants predicted significant Westernization in Indian clothing, expecting sarees to become ceremonial like kimonos, and Western breakfasts to replace traditional Indian ones.
• Sari Evolution:
  • Sarees are worn less frequently but still prevalent, with wearers being viewed as "power dressed" rather than outdated.
  • Modern interpretations include pairing sarees with sneakers and crop tops, and innovations in colors, designs, and fabrics are evident.
  • The "ready-to-wear" sari caters to the younger generation.
• Men's Ethnic Wear:
  Urban men are embracing ethnic clothes for formal and casual occasions, supported by emerging apparel brands.
• Western and Fusion Clothing:
  • Judgment towards Western clothing is diminishing, with jeans becoming commonplace in traditional settings.
  • The "Punjabi dress," a modern form of the salwar kameez, is popular, even in conservative South India, often without the dupatta.
  • Actresses wearing Western couture on global red carpets and designers blending Indian crafts with Western styles highlight this fusion.

Food Evolution

• Culinary Integration:
  Indians have embraced global cuisines, customizing them to local tastes, with street vendors and restaurants serving international dishes like Chinese, Italian, and Mexican.
• Regional Indian Fusion:
  Inter-regional Indian cuisine fusion is gaining popularity, exemplified by successful modern restaurants in cities like Mumbai.
• Alcohol Brands:
  There is a trend of affluent Indians favoring premium, distinctly Indian alcohol brands.

Global Desi Identity

Today's India embraces a blend of global and local identities, valuing both without hierarchical judgments. However, certain institutions like premier business schools still adhere to Western attire for professional representation.