Reshaping Identities: Postcolonial Critique and the Challenges of Globalization

 Reshaping Identities: Postcolonial Critique and the Challenges of Globalization 

This blog is the part of thinking activity of Unit 4 - 1) Globalization and the Future of Postcolonial Studies – Ania Loomba – Colonialism/Postcolonialism and 2) Future of Postcolonial Studies – Ania Loomba – Colonialism/Postcolonialism of paper no. 203: The Postcolonial Studies assigned by Dilip sir.

First let us overview the idea of postcolonialism. 

Post-colonialism is a theoretical framework that examines the lasting impact of colonial rule on societies and cultures after the formal end of colonial empires. It looks at  colonial power structures, ideologies, and practices continue to shape the social, political, and economic realities of formerly colonized nations. Hifan, a term often associated with postcolonial studies, refers to the historical and cultural legacies of colonial domination that persist in the post-colonial era.

Whereas without Hifan The term "postcolonialism" is sometimes spelled without a hyphen, which refers to the theory that attempts to explain the condition of life after colonialism. The term is used to describe the cultural, political, social, and economic legacies of colonialism and imperialism.

[The so called white man's burden]

According to M.H.Abraham, "The critical analysis of the history, culture, literature, and modes of discourse that are specific to the former colonies..." The seminal work Orientalism [1978] by Edward Said provided shoulder on whom postcolonial critics stood. The "Eurocentric" discorse [idea by Micheal Foucault] of Orientalist as "Other", "Exotic", "inferior" was at the centre.

By Althusser's theory of ideology and Derrida's Deconstruction rapidly expanded the field.

1. Rejection of "Master narrative"

2. Destablish Eurocentric

3. Categorization of 'subject'

Edward Said in the interview with Sut Jhally University of Massachusetts-Amherst highlights what is Postcolonialism. 

Edward Said On Orientalism

Here is a video available on YouTube on The Myths of Globalizations by Peter Alfandary.

 Globalization and the Future of Postcolonial Studies

Ania Loomba in the conclusion of the book rightfully defines the postcolonialism of the today and future. The Globaliztion is muti-dimensional phenomena which changed the dynamics of the world. The 9/11 attack was pickpoint for the emergence of new arena of postcolonialism.  Loomba observed in her article,

“Since the events of 11 September 2001, the so-called global war on terror, and theUS invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, it is harder than ever to see our world as simply postcolonial. As the New American Empire develops, openly and shrilly advocated by policy-makers, politicians, and academics within the US and elsewhere, it is more urgent than ever to think about the questions of dominations and resistance that have been raised by anti-colonial movements and postcolonial studies worldwide.”

For example, Globlization made the world village, at the same time it has certain restriction. After the 9/11 attack America has eye on the Arabic-muslim dominated countries. Moreover, the narrative of the Arabs as either terrorist or mysterious and uncivilised fighting with swords, traveling by camels so on and so forth rainforced the identity of the people. Here, the domination and resistence come into the frame.

The Reluctunt Fundamnetalist :

The Reluctant Fundamentalist is a novel about a Pakistani man named Changez who lives in the United States by Mohsin Hamid published in 2007. The movie based on the same story by Mira Nair captures the zest. It's a postcolonial story because it talks about the problems he faces as a person from a former colony living in a powerful Western country.

Changez struggles with his identity because he's both Pakistani and Muslim.[Cultural hybridity] He's often seen as a foreigner and treated differently. The novel also talks about how the West has exploited countries like Pakistan and other, making them poorer. Changez becomes disappointed with the West and starts to question their values.

Central is the climax where the attack and how the rising career of individual is taking turn back. Moreover, the Erica's projection of Chngez add layer to the narrative where Erica is belonging from white race, whereas she gets the sympathy of others by choosing "Changez" who is "Pakistsni". This incident captures the change after the 9/11 attack. 

P. Sainath In seminar paper ‘And Then There Was the Market,’ he makes this observation:

“Market Fundamentalism destroys more human lives than any other simply because it cuts across all national, cultural, geographic, religious, and other boundaries. It’s as much at home in Moscow as in Mumbai or Minnesota." Most of the time it has ideology of "hire and fire" having its own St.Growth and St.Choice. 

In the movie one of the characters refers to Changez as Janissary comparing this with the idea of Market Fundamnetalism than the profit-based and driven mindset is developed right from the childhood. Profit is the God even the start-up is the relics of capitalism. 

This novel and film are equally important because it shows the challenges of living in a world shaped by colonialism. It helps us understand the ongoing effects of colonialism and the importance of cultural understanding and respect.

Having said that Loomba goes on elaborting the idea of 'Empire'.

"Today’s economies, politics, cultures, and identities are all better described in terms of transnational networks, regional and international flows, and the dissolution of geographic and cultural borders, paradigms which are familiar to postcolonial critics but which are now invoked to suggest a radical break with the narratives of colonization and anti-colonialism.” (Loomba) 

Globalization not only provided the one idea of Empire but also the counter narrative of colonized. It goes beyond the idea of centre and periphery of colonized and colonizer. Nonthless, it studied the dissolution of the geographical and cultural borders.  s. Michael Hardt and Antonio Negr observed "It is a decentered and deterritorializing apparatus of rule that progressively incorporate the entire global realm within its open, expanding frontiers." 

By this for example they mean "MNCs" are having their centre in the first world country like America, Britain etc. The compnies where the goods are produced are in the most probably in second or third world country and the labours working are coming from third world countries. So the bundries are intendedly erased for the "profit-making" compnies. 

While empire means enchroching lands and win over sea the new Empire capitals are arms, coals, money, land, and products. Shashie Tharoor in the "Era of Darkness" talks about how British empire exploited the India on the name of business. 

Lagan : 

Lagaan  released internationally as Lagaan: Once Upon a Time in India, is a 2001 Indian Hindi-language epic musical sports film written and directed by Ashutosh GowarikerThe impact of popular Bollywood films like "Lagaan" on the Indian public is a subject of debate. Some argue that these films can "decolonize" the minds of ordinary Indians by challenging colonial ideas and empowering the underprivileged. Others counter that such films perpetuate narrow forms of nationalism and fail to address deeper social issues.

Even the scene of Western lady falling in love with Indian man and helping him is the goody goody story which reveles the deep patriarchal desire. 

Rang De Basanti : 

The film "Rang De Basanti" has been analyzed from different angles. One perspective focuses on its potential to inspire young people to become more engaged citizens. The other perspective examines how the film portrays violence, patriotism, and nationalism. Both analyses acknowledge the film's influence on South Asian audiences, but they have differing views on its overall impact.

Chakravyuh : 

Chakravyuh is a 2012 Indian Hindi-language political action thriller film directed by Prakash Jha. The Naxal movement is presented as a form of resistance against the oppressive state. The character of Juhi, a dedicated Naxal, embodies the resilience and determination of the marginalized. Her love for Kabir symbolizes the potential for solidarity between the colonized and the colonizer.

Tigers:

The film Tigers tells the story of Ayan, a pharmaceutical representative in Pakistan who uncovers a dark secret about his company's baby formula. After discovering that the formula has caused the deaths of hundreds of children, Ayan embarks on a dangerous mission to expose the company's wrongdoing.

GLOBALIZATION AND FICTION: EXPLORING POSTCOLONIAL CRITIQUE AND LITERARY REPRESENTATIONS

In the article "GLOBALIZATION AND FICTION: EXPLORING POSTCOLONIAL CRITIQUE AND LITERARY REPRESENTATIONS "critic provided the list of the works which I will briefly described here.

In "Cosmopolis," Don DeLillo explores the world of anti-globalization protests through the character of Eric Packer, a young billionaire. The novel unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous anti-globalization demonstration in Manhattan.The description of protesters barricading streets with burning tires and the police response with rubber bullets encapsulates the intense conflict surrounding globalization.

 In this novel, Robert Newman provides a detailed and engrossing account of the celebrated protests organized in Seattle during the World Trade Organization (WTO) meeting in 1999.

Arundhati Roy's novel weaves together the narratives of diverse characters, including activists and marginalized individuals, to explore themes of social and political unrest in India

Adiga's novel offers a satirical take on globalization's impact on India. Through the character of Balram Halwai, a chauffeur who rises to prominence, the novel explores themes of social mobility, corruption, and inequality in a globalized India.

 This injunction was made with the argument that the material of the book contained allegations, unethical and corrupt business dealings with politicians and more that would leave Ambani defenceless for the damage it would cause harm to both his and his companies' reputation.This book reveles the darker side of the market. 

Five Perceptions of Social Movements and Protests;

1. Surface Manifestations of Deeper Phenomenon
2. Global Scale and Commonality of Purpose
3. Diverse and Fragmentary Character
4.  Balance Between Convergence and Divergence
5. Transformative Agendas and Historical Context

POSTCOLONIAL STUDIES IN THE ANTHROPOCENE: BRIDGING PERSPECTIVES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

One of the most persistent and controversial topics of contemporary politics is the issue of the environment. Global warming has demonstrated the devastating effects of the industrial revolution and the unfettered pursuit of capital expansion.

The environment, and attendant topics such as ecofeminism, ecological imperialism, environmentalism,speciesism have all taken an increasingly prominent place in post-colonial thought because it has become clear that there is a direct connection between colonialist treatment of indigenous flora and fauna and treatment of colonized and otherwise dominated subjects and societies.

As part of our study on the intersection of postcolonialism and environmental crises, we also screened the documentary 'Anthropocene: The Human Epoch'.

 

Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak boldly assert that they have moved beyond the traditional postcolonial perspective, suggesting that "postcolonial is the day before yesterday"  Vandana Shiva, who highlights the historical connection between colonialism and the destruction of ecological diversity.  Then the question arises...

How does the evolving landscape of environmental studies affect the trajectory and relevance of postcolonial studies in today's world?

The Intersection of Postcolonial Studies and Environmentalism :

Vandana Shiva is helping to change this by talking about how colonialism and the environment are connected. Women's environmentalism also adds to the discussion, showing how nature and culture are linked in postcolonial places. All of this means we need to study environmental issues and postcolonial studies together to get a better understanding.

Spatial Amnesia and the Wilderness Obsession : 

Postcolonial scholars have approached environmentalism with caution because they are concerned that it may perpetuate narratives of the wilderness that erase the histories of colonization, dispossession, and environmental exploitation. 

 Environmental Activism vs. Multinational Corporations

In many parts of the world, especially in poor countries, there's a big clash between people who want to protect the environment and big companies. These companies want to make money, but their actions can harm the land and the people who live there. The battles show how powerful companies can have a bad impact on the environment and the communities where they operate.

Textile industry in Bangladesh : 

African Coffee Plantations : 

Indian Dairy Industry

Indian Dairy Industry :

Indian Dairy Industry

Trading economics shared the chart of the exportation of the Dairy products of India. 

Internal Colonialism in the Decolonized World : 

In many decolonized nations, the struggles of indigenous peoples exemplify the ongoing presence of internal colonialism. Indigenous communities, often pushed to the margins of society, continue to face dispossession and disenfranchisement as their ancestral lands are encroached upon for resource extraction and economic development.

Narmada Bachao Andolan : 

The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is an Indian social movement that was started in 1985 to oppose the construction of large dams on the Narmada River. The NBA is led by activists like Medha Patkar and Baba Amte. The movement's main goals are to protect the environment and the rights of people who would be displaced by the dams. The "Displacement" ratio was higher than one can think, still the project was successful, compnies and govermnet won the case in the suepreme court.

Maoists are fighting against both the mining companies and the government. They want to protect the land and the rights of the people who live there.Arundhati Roy says that these tribal people have been fighting for their land for a very long time, even before the Maoists came along.

Tamil Nadu government announced the construction of a pedestrian bridge linking Vivekananda Rock memorial and Thiruvalluvar statue. This is reveling that there is conflict of Vivekanad memorial and the satue. The enchroching of the water and making a bridge between this is another harming the environment through the anthropocentric view. 

Heroes or Hegemons? The Celluloid Empire of Rambo and Bond in America's Geopolitical Narrative

Rambo and James Bond movies are popular films that have been used to spread American ideas and beliefs around the world, especially during the Cold War and after. Hollywood, which makes these films, has used them to influence how people in other countries think about America. This is called "soft power," and it's a way to promote American values and military strength without using force.

Although James Bond is a British creation, the series often aligns with broader Western geopolitical interests, particularly during the Cold War. By critiquing and resisting hegemonic narratives, rather than mimicking them, film industries like Bollywood can play a significant role in fostering a more diverse and inclusive global discourse. 

Bollywood often is known for its writing against the mainstream, however Tollywood with their mythological and family values movies and themes dominanant the mass. Let us not forget that this is mere looking away from the reality and talking about past. 

Reimagining Resistance: The Appropriation of Tribal Heroes in Rajamouli's RRR

Rajamouli's "RRR" offers  reinterpretation of the historical struggles of Indian tribal communities. While the film effectively portrays their unity and resistance against British colonial rule, it  downplays the contemporary challenges they face. The slogan "Jal, Jangal, Zameen" highlights their deep connection to natural resources. By focusing primarily on the nationalist narrative of liberation from British domination, the film overlooks the ongoing struggles for environmental justice and cultural preservation that these communities continue to confront.

Annie Zaidi describes

"Displacement… is a very inadequate word that conveys nothing of its true meaning. Displacement is not about moving…(It) is about losing a river. Losing access to clean, safe, drinking water…losing land that is watered richly…losing the grass that your herds grazed on. Losing your cattle. Losing the milk that came from your cattle…losing honey and herbs…losing the right to protest when somebody in a uniform shows up to set fire to your home. What else was left to lose?"

The displacement of indigenous communities and the destruction of their environments remain issues in contemporary India. Corporate interests, both domestic and international, drive these destructive forces. The film's portrayal of tribal communities as united freedom fighters against a foreign oppressor obscures the complexities of their present-day struggles. Their battles are not merely against oppressive rulers but also against the very forces of displacement and environmental degradation that threaten their existence.

"RRR" falls short in addressing the urgent environmental challenges faced by tribal communities in India today. A more comprehensive understanding of their struggles requires a nuanced exploration of the intersection between nationalism, environmental justice, and the ongoing legacies of colonialism.

Words : 2603

References : 

Barad, Dilip. “GLOBALIZATION AND FICTION: EXPLORING POSTCOLONIAL CRITIQUE AND LITERARY REPRESENTATIONS.” 2022, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376371617_GLOBALIZATION_AND_FICTION_EXPLORING_POSTCOLONIAL_CRITIQUE_AND_LITERARY_REPRESENTATIONS. Accessed 18 September 2024.

Barad, Dilip. “GLOBALIZATION AND THE FUTURE OF POSTCOLONIAL STUDIES.” ResearchGate. ResearchGate, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376374570_GLOBALIZATION_AND_THE_FUTURE_OF_POSTCOLONIAL_STUDIES. Accessed 18 September 2024.

Barad, Dilip. “Heroes or Hegemons? The Celluloid Empire of Rambo and Bond in America's Geopolitical Narrative.” 2024, 383415195_Heroes_or_Hegemons_The_Celluloid_Empire_of_Rambo_and_Bond_in_America's_Geopolitical_Narrative. Accessed 18 September 2024.

Barad, Dilip. “POSTCOLONIAL STUDIES IN THE ANTHROPOCENE: BRIDGING PERSPECTIVES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE.” 2022, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376374708_POSTCOLONIAL_STUDIES_IN_THE_ANTHROPOCENE_BRIDGING_PERSPECTIVES_FOR_A_SUSTAINABLE_FUTURE. Accessed 18 September 2024.

Barad, Dilip. “Reimagining Resistance: The Appropriation of Tribal Heroes in Rajamouli's RRR.” 2024, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383603395_Reimagining_Resistance_The_Appropriation_of_Tribal_Heroes_in_Rajamouli's_RRR. Accessed 18 September 2024.

“India Exports of Dairy Produce.” https://tradingeconomics.com/india/exports-of-dairy-produce.

Nair, Mira, director. The Reluctant Fundamentalist. 2012. Doha Film Institute Mirabai Films Cine Mosaic, 2012.

Varun Sood & Satish John. https://www.livemint.com/Home-Page/D6RQ0IehSXNbJNISctrEoI/McDonald-set-to-roll-out-his-Ambani-sequel.html.