Culture comprises of the virtues and codes that retain in any particular nation, which becomes the traditional value of that nation. Every country has its own culture. The culture of Pakistan is very assorted, which each ethnic group deriving its identity from its characteristics cultural values and norms which eventually makes it distinct from others.
Beginning of 20th century, western culture has increased; a step towards disaster. Westernization has been spread throughout our country because of the media. The TV channels show various program holders and different characters in the dramas wearing westernized clothes. In addition to this, intimate scenes are becoming more common in programs.
Moreover, Urdu or English? A dilemma most Pakistanis are facing today especially the youth. Each country has its own mother language and they are not just a way of communication but also a part of their culture. Most of the people are not proud to speak our own language now and this is mostly seen in the middle and upper class. Most Pakistanis are moving away from their mother language and adopting English. By adopting English we are not just adopting their language but also their culture, values, customs and traditions and in the process are forgetting our own culture. This confusion started when the British came to rule our land and since then people have been trying to copy their language and have associated it with prestige and class. Even our education is now focusing too much on English at all levels. It is true that English is an international language and is used worldwide, everybody should know it in order to excel abroad. Hence we need to find a balance between our choices of language between one that represents our culture and the other that will take us to international markets.
Don’t let westernization win! It is hard to steadiness in culture and language we are adopting but we have to poise it. Most of people of our society are being taken drugs, alcohol and prostitution for the sake of fashion and just to express modernism. Despite their openness, no actions are being taken to eliminate them in our society. Western culture drive us away from our culture as well as our religion.
Westernization has influenced every aspect of daily life ranging from cuisine to the basic human right. Westernization has not only created amongst the public but it was a step forward towards modernization and modernization in no sense can be regarded as harmful. On the other hand too much interest of youth towards western influences can be regarded as a negative impact on the society.
If we want to live with honor, dignity and secure our identity, we have to proudly own and love our country. If we want our upcoming generation should breathe freely as an independent nation in the world, then, today we have to work in the best interest of Pakistan. We have to rebuild our characters and minds to take the track which leads Pakistan to the destination our ancestors had dreamt of. To minimize and resist the effects of western and Indian channels, it is suggested that local channels should be strengthened and programmes should have better content. These channels should produce and broadcast quality programmes that could help in the promotion of Pakistani values and traditions and improve the image of Pakistan at international level.
BARIRA MEHMOOD,
Rawalpindi, November 16.