The debate over wearing graduation caps and gowns, symbols of Western culture, for academic milestones raises the question: Why does India, a nation rich in tradition, continue to adopt a foreign costume for such significant events?

Reasons for Western Influence on Graduation Ceremonies

• Colonial Legacy: The British introduced Western-style education and academic rituals, during colonial rule. 
  • These items became symbols of achievement tied to a formal, “civilized” education system. 
  • Post-independence, these practices persisted as part of the colonial legacy.
• Globalization and Westernization: Through media, movies, international business, and education, the cap and gown became globally recognized symbols of prestige and success.
• Perception of Formality and Prestige: In India, Western-style graduation attire is viewed as more formal and dignified. 
  • It aligns with global academic standards and conveys a sense of scholarly achievement, making it more desirable than indigenous attire.
• Influence of International Institutions: Many Indian universities collaborate with Western institutions, influencing the adoption of Western graduation rituals. 
  • Additionally, students studying abroad bring back Western practices, reinforcing the idea of caps and gowns as the standard for academic ceremonies.

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Significance of Traditional Attire during Graduation Events

• Cultural Pride and Identity: Wearing traditional attire during academic ceremonies allows individuals to celebrate and express pride in their cultural heritage, highlighting India’s diverse history and regional customs.
• Connection to Heritage: Traditional attire, such as sarees, turbans, or kurta-pajamas, carries deep cultural and historical significance. 
  • By wearing these garments, students honor their ancestors and cultural values, ensuring that academic milestones are linked to the continuity of India’s cultural heritage.
• Challenging Colonial Legacies: Adopting traditional attire encourages a shift in perspective from Western-dominated norms to a more localized and culturally enriched outlook, reclaiming academic spaces as ones that celebrate indigenous culture.
• Sense of Belonging and Community: It promotes inclusivity, as traditional clothing can often be more relatable and comfortable for students compared to foreign styles.

Efforts to Reclaim Indigenous Attire

• UGC Advisory on Handloom Fabrics (2015): In 2015, the University Grants Commission (UGC) advised a shift towards handloom fabrics for convocation attire, moving away from the colonial-inspired cap and gown. 
  • While many central institutions have adopted this change, the transition is far from complete, as some colleges still continue the use of Western-style gowns and caps.

Way forward

• Celebrate Regional Diversity: Encourage region-specific garments to reflect India’s vast cultural diversity, promoting regional pride in academic events.
• Raise Awareness in Schools: Schools should introduce cultural education early, promoting the value of traditional attire over Western norms, especially during graduation events.
• Implementing UGC Guidelines: Continue supporting the transition to handloom fabrics for convocation attire, with more institutions adopting these changes.

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Conclusion

Reclaiming traditional attire for graduation ceremonies in India is more than just a fashion statement—it’s an opportunity to reconnect with the country’s cultural heritage and challenge the lingering effects of colonialism.

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