The notion of Americanization first caught my attention during my days as a student in America, back in the 1960s. As a fresh-faced immigrant hailing from a less-developed land, I made it my mission to emulate the ways of my American comrades, observing them with a keen eye and striving to adopt their habits in fashion, cuisine, speech, language, and swift, decisive actions. I also endeavoured to curb my overly emotional and informal tendencies, seeking to adopt a more rational and detached approach to people and situations.
However, upon my return to India after five years, I found myself confronted with the need to revert to my old ways in the company of relatives and friends who had clung to their native customs. Yet my process of Americanization did not end there. America itself, along with its capitalism, free trade, money, individualism, and liberty, began to infiltrate India through a variety of channels, both political and social. Our government, captains of industry, political parties, and intellectuals all began to actively engage with America, and the result was a dramatic transformation of the work environment, mindset, and aspirations of the common people.
As an observer and professor of American Studies at a university, I found myself delving into my own experiences as a student in America, speculating on the future mindset of our people under the influence of these American ideals. Now, in the year 2023, at the outset of my 89th year, I have been able to give form to my ruminations and produce a book for the kind consideration of readers.