What is the main difference between generations in Punjabi diasporic novels?

First-generation Punjabi migrants maintained cultural ties to their origin while integrating economically, whereas the new generation prioritizes integration into the host society over isolation.

How has the Punjabi diasporic novel evolved?

The Punjabi diasporic novel has moved beyond nostalgia to address issues like racism, generational conflict, economic exploitation, and the new identity of women.

What role does migration play for women in Punjabi diasporic novels?

Migration offers Punjabi women a chance to break free from patriarchy, adopt cultural changes meaningfully, and establish their own independent identities.

Home / Education / Punjabi Novels Reveal Generational Divide in Diaspora

Punjabi Novels Reveal Generational Divide in Diaspora

1 Feb

•

Summary

New generation prioritizes host society integration over isolation.
First-gen migrants maintained cultural ties while seeking economic integration.
Punjabi women find independence and shed patriarchal constraints.

Punjabi Novels Reveal Generational Divide in Diaspora

Research at Punjabi University analyzing Punjabi diasporic novels has uncovered a significant shift in perspective between first-generation Punjabi migrants and their descendants. The study indicates that while earlier migrants focused on economic integration while preserving cultural ties to their homeland, the newer generations, raised abroad, actively seek integration into their host societies.

This generational difference frequently sparks ideological conflicts within families. The research posits migration as a tri-polar relationship involving the homeland, host land, and immigrant community in continuous dialogue. Notably, the study found Punjabi women adopting cultural changes more profoundly than men, using migration as a pathway to shed patriarchal constraints and establish independent identities.