Indigenous Knowledge Systems in a Globalized World: Perspectives from Indian English Writing

This research paper explores the complex interplay between globalization and the evolution of indigenous knowledge in Indian English literature.Indigenous knowledge, deeply embedded in India's rich tapestry of traditional practices, spiritual beliefs, and ancestral wisdom, has been profoundly altered by global forces.Through close readings of literary works by prominent Indian English authors such as Salman Rushdie, Arundhati Roy, and Amitav Ghosh, the study demonstrates how globalization acts as a double-edged sword: it erodes traditional knowledge systems while fostering their reinvention into hybrid forms that embody postcolonial tensions.Employing postcolonial theory and cultural studies frameworks, the analysis reveals how global capitalism commodifies indigenous narratives, migration disperses cultural practices, and digital connectivity amplifies voices of resistance.For instance, narratives often depict the clash between ancient rituals and modern consumerism, yet they also highlight adaptive strategies where indigenous wisdom is repurposed for contemporary survival and identity formation.The findings underscore that Indian English writing serves as a vital arena for negotiating cultural hybridity in a globalized world.Far from mere loss, indigenous knowledge emerges transformed-blending local heritage with global influences to assert resilience and challenge dominant discourses.This transformation not only preserves cultural essence but also critiques exploitative global structures, offering pathways for decolonization and empowerment.