Socio-cultural Landscape Research Articles

ROLE OF JUDICIARY & IMPACT OF LEGALIZATION ON PROSTITUTION IN INDIA

The debate over the legalization of prostitution in India is a complex and multifaceted issue. This research article explores the potential socio-economic, legal, and health impacts of legalizing prostitution in the country. It examines international case studies, legal frameworks, and policy implications to understand whether legalization could lead to better working conditions for sex workers or unintended social consequences. The article also considers feminist perspectives, human rights concerns, and public health outcomes in the context of India’s socio-cultural landscape. Prostitution, one of the oldest professions in the world, remains a controversial and complex issue in India. The judiciary has played a crucial role in interpreting laws related to prostitution, balancing the rights of sex workers with public morality and legal principles. This article explores the role of the judiciary in addressing prostitution and examines the potential impact of legalizing prostitution in India. It evaluates the legal framework, judicial pronouncements, and socio-economic consequences of legalization, ultimately assessing whether decriminalization can offer better protection to sex workers.

VOICE FROM VOID: SUBALTERN IDENTITY, PSYCHO-CULTURAL SENSIBILITY AND CASTE PARLANCE IN FILM KANTARA

The 2022 Kannada-language film Kantara, serves as a compelling exploration of subaltern psychocultural sensibilities within the context of coastal Karnataka’s socio-cultural landscape. This article analyzes how Kantara engages with the subaltern through its portrayal of the Bhuta Kola ritual, caste dynamics, and the tension between tradition and modernity. Drawing on Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak’s concept of the subaltern and Antonio Gramsci’s notion of cultural hegemony, the study examines the film’s representation of marginalized communities, particularly the forest-dwelling tribes and lower-caste groups, and their psychocultural expressions. The narrative’s rootedness in local folklore, coupled with its depiction of land rights and spiritual practices, highlights the agency and resistance of subaltern voices against dominant structures. By weaving together psychoanalytic and postcolonial frameworks, this article uncovers how Kantara negotiates identity, power, and cultural memory, offering a nuanced portrayal of subalternity. The film’s critical and commercial success underscores its relevance in contemporary Indian cinema, where subaltern narratives are increasingly gaining visibility. This analysis contributes to broader discussions on caste, indigeneity, and cultural representation in Indian popular cinema, emphasizing the psychocultural dimensions of subaltern resilience and spirituality.

Efforts of Arab and Chinese Ethnic Groups in Maintaining Their Cultural Identity in a Malay-Muslim Environment in Palembang

This study explores the strategies employed by the Arab and Chinese ethnic groups to preserve their cultural identity within the predominantly Malay-Muslim environment of Palembang. Challenging the common assumption that minority groups are inherently powerless compared to the majority, this research reveals that both the Arab and Chinese communities possess significant influence in the socio-cultural landscape of Palembang. Employing a qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, the study examines how these communities navigate cultural assimilation pressures while maintaining distinct ethnic traditions. The findings indicate that both groups have successfully leveraged their social capital—Arabs through religion and Chinese through economic activities—to sustain their cultural identities and exert influence over the majority Malay population. Notably, this influence is reflected in the organization of significant social rituals, such as the Cap Go Meh Ritual by the Chinese and Ziarah Kubro by the Arabs. The study concludes that inter-ethnic adaptation in Palembang involves not only maintaining harmony but also contestation and negotiation among different groups. This dynamic interaction underscores the complexity of multiculturalism, where harmony is maintained through a pragmatic approach to mutual dependence. The implications of this research extend to policymakers and cultural organizations aiming to support ethnic diversity in a multicultural contex.

The Christian Missionary Enterprise and Its Effects on Idemili (Igbo, Nigeria) Culture

This study examines the impact of Christian missionary enterprises on the socio-cultural settings of Idemili, Anambra State, Nigeria. The study employs qualitative research methods such as interviews, observations and literature review to collect data; a phenomenological approach is used to analyze the data. Through an analysis of primary and secondary sources, the research highlights ways in which Christian missionaries influenced the beliefs, practices, and values of the Idemili people. Through their efforts, Christianity spread, leading to the establishment of schools, hospitals, and other institutions that brought about social and economic development. However, there have also been conflicts with traditional cultural practices and divisions among family members. The findings suggest that the introduction of Christianity led to the transformation of the socio-cultural landscape of the Idemili, resulting in a blend of traditional and Christian beliefs and practices. The study concludes that while Christian missionary work has brought many positive changes to Idemmili, it is important to also preserve and respect the people’s cultural heritage.

Analysis of Crime in India - By State

In recent years, understanding and addressing crime patterns have become paramount for policymakers, law enforcement agencies, and researchers worldwide. Crime not only poses a significant threat to public safety but also has far-reaching socio-economic implications. In India, like many other countries, crime analysis is a critical area of study, given the diverse socio-cultural landscape and the complex interplay of factors influencing criminal activities. This project aims to delve into the analysis of crime in India, focusing specifically on the homicide rate across different states. Homicide, being one of the most severe forms of crime, provides valuable insights into the overall law and order situation and societal dynamics of a region. By examining various factors such as state geography, economic indicators, and demographic characteristics, this study seeks to uncover the underlying drivers of homicide rates and their implications for public policy and governance

Examining Fictional and Non-Fictional Judicial Mechanisms in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird

In the heart of Harper Lee's „To Kill a Mockingbird,” set against the American Deep South's complex tapestry during the 1930s, lies a profound exploration of judicial mechanisms, both fictional and non-fictional. This novel, transcending mere storytelling, becomes a lens through which the intricate interplay of racial tensions, societal constructs, and ethical dilemmas are scrutinized. Within its pages, the courtroom is not just a setting for legal battles but a vivid symbol of Maycomb's tumultuous sociocultural landscape. This paper ventures into the depths of Lee's narrative to unravel the complex dialogue between the idealistic pursuits of justice and the harsh realities of ingrained prejudice. Through an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) or English for Specific Purposes (ESP) teaching lens, this analysis will highlight the courtroom scenes’ educational potential, emphasizing their value in fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and moral reasoning in a global learning context.

Exploring Social Media and E-Communication Patterns Among Indigenous Youth in Sri Lanka

Social media and other digital technology use has skyrocketed in Sri Lanka and around the world, especially among marginalized youth groups like Indigenous communities. This study delves into the intricate interplay of social media and electronic communication (E-communication) patterns within the context of indigenous youth in Sri Lanka. As globalization and technological advancements continue to reshape traditional sociocultural landscapes, indigenous communities find themselves navigating an evolving digital terrain. this study aims to elucidate the patterns of engagement among this demographic, focusing on their preferences and behaviors in the digital realm. This paper examines the published literature to learn about how Indigenous youth in Sri Lanka use digital technologies and social media, as well as the positive and negative effects this has on their lives. This quantitative study on Sri Lanka's indigenous youth employed simple random sampling and an online questionnaire survey with 110 respondents, revealing insights into their social media and electronic communication behaviors, and was conducted using a descriptive research design and a sample of 36 respondents. The research findings suggest that even though the indigenous youth have less access to social media and digital technology, there are many ways social media affects their daily activities. growing the population and other advancements have increased the usage of social media and other devices among the youth indigenous population in Sri Lanka. It is anticipated that the findings will provide valuable insights for scholars, policymakers, and community leaders, fostering a more holistic approach to digital inclusion that respects the unique needs and aspirations of indigenous youth in Sri Lanka.

Challenges and Transformation: Revealing the Dynamics of Socio-Cultural Change in the Modern Era

Socio-cultural changes in Indonesian society in the modern era face various complex and dynamic challenges. Globalization, information technology, and higher mobility have profoundly changed the socio-cultural landscape. The purpose of this research is to highlight the complexity of challenges and transformations in revealing the dynamics of socio-cultural changes in Indonesian society in the modern era. The research method used is a literature study, namely by solving problems by tracing the sources of writings that have been made before. The results show that one of the main challenges is preserving traditional values and local culture amid the influence of globalization. The urge to adopt lifestyles, values, and norms from foreign cultures often conflicts with local values. In addition, rapidly developing information technology also brings new challenges in the form of changing patterns of communication, social interaction, and cultural identity. However, Indonesian society is also undergoing a significant transformation in the face of these challenges. Increasingly accessible education allows for increased awareness and understanding of local cultural values. Technological innovations are also used to preserve cultural heritage through various media. In addition, the spirit of gotong royong and togetherness that characterizes Indonesian society remains strong, despite the pressures of socio-cultural change. Communities are adapting to new ways of maintaining traditional values while embracing the positive aspects of globalization.

Constitutional and municipal law: Analysing constitutions and their societal implications

The present study scrutinizes the societal implications of constitutions and their significance within both national and international frameworks. The authors undertakes an exploration of the principles underlying constitutional law, delving into the categorization of constitutions based on state structures and political regimes. Additionally, the article explores instances of constitutions from diverse nations, shedding light on their consequential effects on society. Emphasis is placed on a meticulous examination of constitutional structures and their pivotal contribution to the configuration of legal and socio-cultural landscapes. The examination of constituent elements within constitutions enables the illumination of their crucial significance in shaping the legal and socio-cultural fabric of society. Special consideration is directed towards international dimensions, with a specific focus on the impact of preambles in shaping national identity on the global stage. The article systematically investigates the significance of procedures for constitutional amendments, emphasizing their role in fostering stability and facilitating adaptation to prevailing global trends. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the constitution's influence on society, aiming to identify the pivotal components within the constitutional structure that exert the most significant impact on societal development. The primary object of investigation encompasses constitutional documents from diverse countries. This includes a thorough examination of their preambles, core provisions, sections concerning human rights and freedoms, power structures, and an exploration of the international context within which these constitutions operate. The outcomes of this research can function as a crucial resource for human rights organizations, legislative bodies, and constitutional commissions involved in the formulation and amendment of constitutional documents. Moreover, the study creates avenues for additional comparative analyses, facilitating an in-depth exploration of the diverse constituencies across countries and their repercussions on societies within the international sphere.

Unveiling the Legacy of Pandit Karuppan: A Critical Analysis of Jathikkummi and Balakalesam in Kerala’s Social Reform Movement

The paper entitled Unveiling the Legacy of Pandit Karuppan: A Critical Analysis of Jathikkummi and Balakalesam in Kerala’s Social Reform Movement delves into the profound impact of two seminal works, Jathikummi and Balakalesam, in catalyzing a transformative shift within the social fabric of Kerala. Emerging as responses to the entrenched caste system prevalent in Kerala society, these works served as significant milestones in the broader context of social reform movements in the region. Jathikummi and Balakalesam, attributed to Pandit Karuppan, epitomize the spirit of resistance against caste-based oppression, advocating for the rights and dignity of marginalized communities. Through a comprehensive examination of historical records, literary analyses, and socio-political contexts, this paper elucidates the multifaceted dimensions of these revolutionary texts. It explores the socio-cultural landscape of Kerala during the time of their inception, highlighting the pervasive influence of caste hierarchy on various aspects of life. Furthermore, it investigates the strategies employed Pandit Karuppan to challenge existing norms and ignite conversations around social equality and justice. Central to the discussion are the themes of education, empowerment, and collective mobilization elucidated in Jathikummi and Balakalesam. These works not only served as instruments of consciousness-raising but also as blueprints for practical activism aimed at dismantling caste-based discrimination and oppression. By critically engaging with these works, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of caste dynamics and the ongoing struggle for inclusive and egalitarian societies.

능력주의 사회에서 기독교인의 인성과 교양 함양을 위한 교육 －기독교철학의 관점에서 본 포도원 품꾼 비유를 중심으로－

The world we are living in today is still entrenched in the midst of meritocracy. While it may seem somewhat out of place in a society where the values of meritocracy reign supreme, the author seeks to reinterpret Jesus’ “parable of the vineyard workers” from the perspective of Christian philosophy. The ultimate aim of doing so is to reveal the dangers posed by meritocracy or the all-encompassing belief in merit, which can destroy our own lives, sever relationships with our neighbors, and ultimately even annihilate human nature itself. Furthermore, in the socio-cultural landscape of Korea, which has embraced this meritocratic ideology, the author aims to define the identity of Christians and present guidelines for the cultivation of Christian virtues, exploring what constitutes a mature Christian life amidst the prevailing meritocratic ethos. To achieve this, the author first reviews various interpretations of the “parable of the vineyard workers” and proposes Martin Buber’s model of human relationships from “I and Thou” as a basis for the Christian philosophical interpretation of this parable. Next, the author analyzes the types of human relationships represented by the vineyard workers from the perspective of Christian philosophy and elucidates their characteristics. Finally, the author aims to conclude the discussion by mentioning why constant cultivation is necessary for the cultivation of Christian virtues and culture, focusing on the importance of continuous labor while tying the discussion back to the parable.

STUDYING GENDER THROUGH CASTE LENSES IN SHARANKUMAR LIMBALE’S THE DALIT BRAHMINS AND OTHER STORIES

Dalit literature in India has been playing a very important role in acquainting readers with Dalits’ world of suffering, oppression, and resistance. This research paper explores the complex interplay of gender and caste in the selected short stories from Sharankumar Limbale’s short story collection, The Dalit Brahmins and Other Stories (2018). The paper focuses on short stories, “Ratna”, “Madhavi”, “Soni” and “Niloo”. Through a comparative analysis of these narratives, the paper highlights how the characters’ experiences are shaped by their caste identities and societal roles. Ratna and Soni, representing lower-caste Dalit women, have to live a life of oppression, violence, and societal neglect, while Madhavi and Niloo, as upper-caste women, embody privilege yet remain complicit in perpetuating caste hierarchies. The stories illustrate the clear contrasts in their lived realities, revealing how caste influences their bodies, autonomy, and relationships. The paper critically examines the ‘lived experiences’ of these women, whose bodies become contested terrains in a socio-cultural landscape rife with systemic inequalities. The paper explores the symbolism of the female body as a site of cultural meaning, where upper-caste women are often idealised and protected, while Dalit women face objectification and exploitation. By examining Limbale’s heart-rending storytelling, the paper contributes to the discourse on gender equality and social justice, highlighting the urgent need to address the systemic oppression faced by women in a casteist society. Through this analysis, the paper aims to illuminate the broader implications of caste-based discrimination and its impact on gender dynamics in contemporary India.

MATRIMONIAL MARKET DYNAMICS IN KERALA: A CRITICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE ADVANCEMENT OF MATRIMONIAL ADVERTISEMENTS IN KERALA

Marriage, as a social institution is prevalent in the cultural landscape of Kerala. The cultural diversity of Kerala can be observed from its heterogeneity in customs, rituals and practices. ‘Arranged marriages’ are the traditional and most common kind of marriage that happen in Kerala. These marriages are generally facilitated through matrimonial advertisements which commodify the institution of marriage itself. They also serve as spaces of segregation on the basis of religion, caste, class and gender. The normalisation of conventions takes place through such advertisements which is being catered to the general public through newspapers, matrimonial websites, television channels and social media platforms. It seems that even the tastes and important life choices of individuals are shaped on the terms dictated by the culture industry. The paper studies the evolution of matrimonial advertisements with respect to the sociocultural transformations that happened in the Kerala society. The study aims to analyse the process of evolution from the era of marriage brokers and marriage bureaus to the era of social media and dating platforms. It also identifies the point of rupture in this evolutionary process which can be considered as a harbinger of progressive change in the sociocultural landscape of Kerala.

Kirpan Sikh in Indonesian Legal Context

This research delves into the nuanced interplay between religious freedom and legal norms in Indonesia, with a specific focus on the Sikh practice of carrying the kirpan. This ceremonial dagger, integral to Sikh faith and identity, presents a unique challenge within Indonesia's diverse legal and socio-cultural landscape, marked by the country's commitment to Pancasila, which emphasizes religious freedom, unity in diversity, and social justice. By employing a normative juridical approach, this study scrutinizes the tension between the kirpan as a manifestation of religious expression and public safety concerns, utilizing comparative analysis to explore international perspectives and solutions. The investigation reveals a critical need for Indonesia to refine its legal and policy frameworks to more effectively accommodate religious practices like the kirpan. Drawing lessons from countries such as India, the UK, Canada, the US, and Sweden, the research advocates for inclusive legal reforms, enhanced public education, and robust intercultural dialogue. These strategies aim to reconcile the practice of carrying the kirpan with public safety imperatives, reflecting a deeper understanding and respect for religious diversity. The findings underscore the significance of integrating Indonesia's foundational principles of Pancasila into the contemporary discourse on religious freedom and minority rights. The study posits that respecting the kirpan within this ideological framework not only aligns with Indonesia's commitment to diversity and tolerance but also strengthens national unity and social harmony. This research contributes to the broader discourse on balancing religious expression and public safety in pluralistic societies, offering a comprehensive blueprint for policy and legal reforms that honor both religious freedom and collective well-being. It emphasizes the importance of dialogue, education, and legal inclusivity in fostering a society that upholds the dignity and rights of all individuals, irrespective of their religious practices. Keywords: Kirpan, Sikh, Freedom of Religion and Human Rights (FoRB), Criminal Law, Indonesia

Revolutionary Echoes: Marxist Insights into The Social Class and Economic Conditions in Rabindranath Tagore’s Subha

Rabindranath Tagore, a renowned literary figure and a futuristic, has written the short story Subha, a work that transcends its romantic narrative to offer a broader critique of power structures and societal ideologies. If someone is a woman, her situation is going to be worse; if she is physically challenged, her situation is going to take a nightmare - this is how the late nineteenth-century society used to treat women, painted by Tagore. The protagonist Subha is a woman who is physically challenged and her relationship with Amal, who belongs to the upper class, changes their relationship quo and causes one of the reasons for the plot’s trajectory. Applying Althusserian lenses to this exploration, the research scrutinizes the manifestations of the Ideological State Apparatuses within the narrative. The central research questions guide the inquiry, emphasizing an in-depth analysis of the operationalization of the Ideological State Apparatus in delineating social class distinctions. This paper maintained in a qualitative methodology involves a meticulous examination of the text and discerns the nuanced portrayal of social class within Subha. Drawing on Althusser’s Marxism theory, the study, moreover, investigates how the Ideological State Apparatus influences characters’ relationships, exploring the intersections of personal desires and societal expectations. However, the research findings aim to contribute to the understanding of how ideology shapes literary narratives, shedding light on the intricate dynamics between characters, social class, and plot trajectories. In a broader context, this study underscores the enduring relevance of Marxist theory in literary analysis, offering insights into the mechanisms through which ideological forces operate in shaping the sociocultural landscape depicted in Tagore’s Subha.

Последние адреса: мемориальные доски как место памяти и форма коммуникации

Memorial plaques are one of the most common forms of commemorative practices. Organically fitting into the geographical and socio-cultural landscape and having several functions, memorial plaques not only become a kind of marker of a “site of memory” (lieu de mémoire), play an important role in preserving names, transmitting historical memory, but also contribute to the construction and consolidation in the mass consciousness of ideologically verified representations of historical political events. Various “initiatives from below” and projects of independent activists (for example, the “Last Address” (“Poslednij adres”) project with memorial tablets to victims of state terror or the anonymous “questions about repressions” action discussed in this article) become vivid examples of how today’s Russian civil society reacts to a unilateral submission historical facts by power structures. The organizers of such actions become new actors in the politics of memory. They seek not only to expand the space of specific “places of memory” – memorial plaques and their contents – but also to change the perception of certain historical events and attitudes towards them. On the example of memorial plaques as a form of commemoration, the article examines the communicative strategies of different groups of memory subjects in modern Russia.

Why Study the Seasons? Reflections on the Question of Urban Temporalities

This article will conclude the collection of essays for this special issue on urban seasonality, but rather than offering a summary, it will point toward future directions in the study of urban seasonality. Why should we more closely consider the impact of seasonal variation in the study of urban history? How do the seasons help us understand the concept of temporality in the analysis of urban environments, sociocultural landscapes, as well as institutional and infrastructural layouts? This contribution will also suggest how the seasons might help us bridge local specificities, transnational, global, and planetary concerns.

Unveiling the veil: an examination of gender oppression in Hosseini's A Thousand Splendid Suns

ABSTRACT The Taliban administration (1996–2001) undoubtedly inflicted unimaginable suffering on Afghan women, but the struggle for gender equality in Afghanistan has deep roots. In his novel, ‘A Thousand Splendid Suns’, Afghan-American author Khaled Hosseini vividly portrays the harrowing experiences of women before, during, and after the war. To scrutinise the oppression of Afghan women as depicted in the novel, this study draws upon Iris Marion Young's theory of oppression. Young contended that women in a society endure oppression when they confront exploitation, marginalisation, powerlessness, cultural imperialism, and violence at the hands of men. This research unveils the physical, mental, and sexual abuse experienced by female characters, examining their inferior status through the lens of Young's ‘Five Faces of Oppression' and connecting it to the actual suffering of women in Afghanistan's male-dominated society. Therefore, it becomes unequivocally clear from this study that the female characters in Hosseini's narrative endure lives of oppression under the relentless dominion of patriarchy. The study further substantiates that Afghan women live lives marked by oppression, shedding light on their subjugation by patriarchal forces in Afghanistan's socio-cultural landscape.

Promoting Intercultural Pluralism: Linguistic Diversity in Saudi EFL Education

The rapidly changing social and educational landscape of Saudi Arabia has made commitment to intercultural pluralism in EFL classrooms a compelling necessity for peaceful co-existence with ‘others’ both within and outside the country. Understanding of the other cultures is facilitated by communication which is dependent on language which necessitates teachers’ preparation in training learners in intercultural communication. This descriptive study aimed to assess the prevalent teachers' awareness of intercultural communication to foster a higher level of pluralism, particularly in the unique sociocultural landscape of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected from 29 EFL instructors at an academic institution via personal interviews. Thematic analysis with statistical analysis were carried out to answer the research questions. Findings showed that to fully master a language, one must also comprehend its cultural nuances; and the promotion of intercultural pluralism through EFL education in Saudi Arabia is a step in the right direction, as it ensures that students are not only linguistically proficient but also attuned to the contemporary geopolitics and culturally sensitive. This research lays the foundation for a larger discussion about the incorporation of cultural awareness in language education, positioning it as a foundation in the development of a more pluralistic and harmonious society.

BORDERS AT THE MARGINS: LIVED EXPERIENCES AND GOVERNANCE CHALLENGES OF BORDER COMMUNITIES IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR

This study re-envisions border studies by focussing on the lived experiences of communities in Jammu and Kashmir’s border regions, where borders transcend mere geopolitical lines and become vibrant socio-cultural landscapes. This research paper highlights the complex issues these communities face, such as security threats, economic exclusion, and restricted access to essential services like education and healthcare. These challenges are intensified by the region’s geographic isolation, intermittent military conflicts, and political volatility, which create an environment marked by instability and vulnerability. By examining historical conflicts, systemic neglect, and geopolitical tensions, the study reveals how these factors compound the hardships of border populations. Furthermore, this paper evaluates the effects of leadership measures, such as construction projects, health, schooling, and living characteristics in enhancing conditions in such deprived regions. Consequently, the analysis presented in the research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on effective and efficient policy implementation and governance in borderland regions, while questioning the dominant paradigms of development. Thus, this work contributes to the existing literature on border studies by providing a systematic understanding of borders, community resilience, and governance in their complex interrelationships.