Western Culture and Indian Culture

 In addition to the last blog about traditional gender role in "Bend It Like Beckham", I want to write about the difference between western and Indian culture represented in the movie. In the movie, Jess, the protagonist makes friendship with Juliette who is from western culture. There are both similarities and contrasts between western culture and Indian culture.

 To begin with, in both cultures, mothers expect their daughters not to play aggressive sports such as football. Instead, they want their daughters to do something which attracts men who will eventually become their husband. For example, in the movie, Jess was told to learn about making chapati as a way of finding a good Sikh husband. Furthermore, there was the scene where Juliette was suggested by her mother to buy bras which make her chest look bigger instead of sport bras. Therefore, I personally believe that in many cultures, seeking for a good husband is thought as being important for young female adults by their parents.

 On the contrary, there are scenes where Jess discusses about marriage with Juliette which represent dissimilarity of freedom in these two cultures. In western cultures, women are usually free to decide about their husband and the traditional values are not as influential as the individuals willingness. On the other hand, in Indian Sikh culture, marriages are arranged and one's ethnic cultural background outweighs one's willingness. For instance, Jess is supposed to marry a good SIKH man.

If you have watched the movie before and felt differently, please feel free to leave any comments below.

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