GLOBALISATION, DIASPORA AND BELONGING: Exploring Transnationalism and Gujarati Identity

The term ‘identity’ has become fashionable, both inside and outside the sphere of academia. It has evolved so that it incorporates both a means of talking about individuality, community and cohesion, as well as a way to comprehend the interaction between one’s experiences of the world and the cultural and historical spheres in which those perceptions are formed. The notion of ‘belonging’ is complex in nature and the need to belong is a necessity for individuals in society. The creation of a sense of belonging is a multifaceted dynamic process that does not require an individual to select one solitary group to which they may belong. It is through the processes associated with achieving a sense of belonging that individuals shape their identities. This collection focuses upon the experiences of the Gujaratis, highlighting the unique ways that globalisation, migration, language, culture and ‘othering’ shape perceptions of belonging. To capture some of the complexities that characterise Gujarati identities, this volume is categorised thematically into three sections: (1) Globalisation and Migration; (2) Language and Culture; and (3) Inclusion/Exclusion. Each chapter is richly illustrated with excerpts from interviews and narratives from Gujaratis who are attempting to belong and find acceptance in a variety of settings, including Australia, Canada, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, India, Oman, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Zanzibar. An insightful perspective into the Gujaratis, Globalisation, Diaspora and Belonging provides readers with a comprehensive overview of historical and contemporary issues surrounding notions of Gujarati identity.