Why are Indians so obsessed about what people from other countries think about India?
The obsession among some Indians about what people from other countries think about India can be attributed to several factors:
Historical and Cultural Pride
Many Indians have a strong sense of pride in their country's historical and cultural achievements. This pride often leads to a desire for international recognition and respect for India's past contributions, such as its ancient knowledge, philosophical traditions, and historical grandeur. However, this pride can sometimes manifest as an excessive focus on past glories rather than current achievements, as discussed in the blog post on the obsession with the past2.
Global Perception and Validation
Indians, particularly those in the diaspora, often seek validation from the global community to reinforce their national identity and self-worth. Positive international opinions can be seen as a form of validation for India's progress and global standing. This is evident in the strong support for the U.S.-India relationship among Indian Americans, who endorse efforts to deepen ties between the two countries and hold favorable views of the U.S.1.
Comparative Analysis and Competition
There is a tendency among some Indians to compare their country's status with that of other nations, particularly in terms of economic, technological, and cultural advancements. This comparative mindset can lead to a preoccupation with how India is perceived globally, especially in relation to countries like China, the U.S., and Russia. For instance, Indians are notably critical of China and have increasingly negative views of its influence, while they hold favorable views of the U.S. and Russia3.
Media and Social Influence
The widespread use of social media and online platforms among Indians contributes to this obsession. Social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and WhatsApp are popular among Indian Americans for following news about India, although they do not view these sources as particularly trustworthy compared to traditional news sources1. The constant exposure to global news and opinions can heighten the sensitivity to international perceptions.
Psychological and Societal Factors
Some individuals may feel a need to compensate for perceived current shortcomings by glorifying the past or seeking external validation. This can be driven by feelings of inadequacy or a lack of confidence in current achievements, leading people to cling to historical glories as a way to elevate their self-worth2.
In summary, the obsession with what people from other countries think about India is a complex issue rooted in historical pride, the desire for global validation, comparative analysis, media influence, and psychological factors.