Over 80% of popular English-language content centers on North India (Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, Varanasi) or South Indian Brahminical traditions . Northeast India (Nagaland, Tripura, Sikkim), tribal cultures, and Dalit or Muslim lifestyle representations are severely underrepresented. When shown, they are often treated as “exotic” side notes.
Short-form content (Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts) often reduces complex rituals to “3 hacks for Karva Chauth” or “10 Indian home remedies.” Experts and cultural practitioners criticize this for spreading half-truths—e.g., claiming all Indians eat with hands (ignoring etiquette variations) or that henna is purely religious (it’s also used for cooling in Rajasthan). the interior design handbook pdf