Social values are the beliefs and practices that shape how a community lives and thinks. These values have been passed down through generations, but in the last two decades, they have faced challenges. In the past, family elders held great power, especially in joint families. In a Nair household in Kerala, the matriarch or the eldest uncle made important decisions, and their word was final. However, this authority has weakened over time.
In the childhood, the family was nuclear, and parents were the main caregivers. The mother, a housewife, spent her days caring for her children, creating a loving environment. But as the author became a parent, both she and her husband worked long hours. A full-time maid took over many household duties, and technology began to play a larger role in their children’s lives. Smartphones and laptops became tools to keep children busy, often replacing personal interaction.
The Rise of Boarding Schools
As parents realized they could not always be there for their children, many turned to boarding schools. The number of boarding schools in India has increased significantly, from fewer than 10,000 three decades ago to over 45,000 today. This trend shows that parents are looking for structured environments for their children, as they struggle to balance work and family life.
Loss of Cultural Roots
Another major change is the disconnection from cultural roots, especially among second-generation migrants. The author, a first-generation urban migrant, notes that both she and her children have lost touch with their native culture, language, and traditions. This cultural erosion has led to a sense of rootlessness, as families become smaller and more isolated. The strong connections that once linked extended families and communities are fading, leaving many young people without a clear sense of identity or belonging.
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