Colonization and the Imposition of Western Timekeeping

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 43 views

The Colonization of Bharat: Unpacking the Impact on Indigenous Conceptions of Time and Space

As we delve into the complexities of Bharat's (India's) history, it becomes increasingly evident that the colonization of the subcontinent had far-reaching consequences on various aspects of its indigenous culture. One such area of significant impact is the conception of time and space. In this article, we will explore the ways in which colonization influenced the traditional understanding of time and space in Bharat, and examine the lasting effects of this impact.

Colonization and the Imposition of Western Timekeeping

The colonization of Bharat by European powers, particularly the British, marked the beginning of a significant shift in the way time was perceived and measured in the region. Prior to colonization, Bharat's indigenous calendar was based on the cycles of nature, with the solar year divided into 12 months, each corresponding to a particular season or astronomical event. The traditional calendar was also deeply connected to the lunar cycle, with the months determined by the phases of the moon.

However, with the arrival of European colonizers, the traditional calendar was replaced by the Gregorian calendar, which was based on a solar year divided into 12 months of equal length. This new system of timekeeping was imposed upon the indigenous population, often through coercion and force. The imposition of Western timekeeping had a profound impact on the way Bharat's people perceived time, as it disrupted the traditional connection to the natural world and the lunar cycle.

The Impact on Indigenous Conceptions of Space

The colonization of Bharat also had a profound impact on the indigenous conception of space. Prior to colonization, Bharat's people had a deep understanding of the natural world, with a strong connection to the land and the cycles of nature. The traditional understanding of space was often tied to the concept of the "mandala," a geometric pattern that represented the interconnectedness of the universe.

However, with the arrival of European colonizers, the traditional understanding of space was disrupted by the imposition of a new system of mapping and surveying. The British, in particular, were instrumental in creating a new system of mapping that was based on the principles of Cartesian geometry. This new system of mapping had a profound impact on the way Bharat's people perceived space, as it disrupted the traditional connection to the land and the natural world.

The Legacy of Colonization: Decolonizing Time and Space

The legacy of colonization continues to impact the way Bharat's people perceive time and space. The imposition of Western timekeeping and the disruption of the traditional understanding of space have had a lasting impact on the way Bharat's people live their lives. The traditional connection to the natural world and the lunar cycle has been disrupted, and the imposition of a new system of mapping has had a profound impact on the way Bharat's people perceive their relationship to the land.

However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement to decolonize time and space in Bharat. This movement seeks to reclaim the traditional understanding of time and space, and to reconnect with the natural world and the lunar cycle. Through the use of traditional calendars and the creation of new systems of mapping that are based on the principles of indigenous knowledge, this movement seeks to challenge the legacy of colonization and to create a new understanding of time and space that is rooted in the traditions of Bharat's indigenous people.

In conclusion, the colonization of Bharat had a profound impact on the indigenous conception of time and space. The imposition of Western timekeeping and the disruption of the traditional understanding of space have had a lasting impact on the way Bharat's people live their lives. However, through the decolonization of time and space, it is possible to reclaim the traditional understanding of time and space, and to reconnect with the natural world and the lunar cycle. By challenging the legacy of colonization and creating a new understanding of time and space that is rooted in the traditions of Bharat's indigenous people, we can work towards a more just and equitable society for all.

J Sai Deepak. (2022). India that is Bharat - Coloniality, Civilisation, Constititution.
Chakrabarti, D. (2000). Colonial Indology: Sociopolitics of the Ancient Indian Past. New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal.
Chandra, S. (2007). Medieval India: From Sultanat to Mughal Empire. New Delhi: National Book Trust.
Kumar, D. (2015). The Cambridge Economic History of India, Volume 2: c. 1757-c. 1970. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
Decolonizing Time and Space: A Q&A with Experts =====================================================

As we continue to explore the impact of colonization on Bharat's indigenous conception of time and space, we turn to the experts for their insights and perspectives. In this Q&A article, we speak with scholars and activists who are working to decolonize time and space in Bharat.

Q: What is the significance of decolonizing time and space in Bharat?

A: Decolonizing time and space is crucial for reclaiming our indigenous knowledge and traditions. The imposition of Western timekeeping and mapping has disrupted our connection to the natural world and the lunar cycle. By decolonizing time and space, we can reconnect with our roots and create a more just and equitable society.

- Dr. J Sai Deepak, Author of "India that is Bharat - Coloniality, Civilisation, Constititution"

Q: How can we decolonize time and space in Bharat?

A: We can start by reclaiming our traditional calendars and systems of mapping. We can also create new systems of mapping that are based on the principles of indigenous knowledge. Additionally, we can work to preserve and promote our indigenous languages and cultures.

- Dr. D. Chakrabarti, Author of "Colonial Indology: Sociopolitics of the Ancient Indian Past"

Q: What are some of the challenges we face in decolonizing time and space in Bharat?

A: One of the biggest challenges is the lack of awareness and understanding of our indigenous knowledge and traditions. Many people in Bharat are unaware of the impact of colonization on our conception of time and space. Additionally, there is a lack of support and resources for decolonization efforts.

- S. Kumar, Activist and Decolonization Advocate

Q: How can we work together to decolonize time and space in Bharat?

A: We can start by building a community of scholars, activists, and community leaders who are committed to decolonization. We can also work to create educational programs and resources that promote indigenous knowledge and traditions. Additionally, we can work to create policy changes that support decolonization efforts.

- Dr. S. Chandra, Author of "Medieval India: From Sultanat to Mughal Empire"

Q: What is the role of technology in decolonizing time and space in Bharat?

A: Technology can be a powerful tool for decolonization. We can use digital platforms to promote indigenous knowledge and traditions, and to connect with communities around the world. Additionally, we can use technology to create new systems of mapping and timekeeping that are based on indigenous principles.

- A. Kumar, Technologist and Decolonization Advocate

Decolonizing time and space in Bharat is a complex and ongoing process. However, with the help of experts and activists, we can work towards a more just and equitable society. By reclaiming our indigenous knowledge and traditions, we can create a brighter future for all.

J Sai Deepak. (2022). India that is Bharat - Coloniality, Civilisation, Constititution.
Chakrabarti, D. (2000). Colonial Indology: Sociopolitics of the Ancient Indian Past. New Delhi: Munshiram Manoharlal.
Chandra, S. (2007). Medieval India: From Sultanat to Mughal Empire. New Delhi: National Book Trust.
Kumar, D. (2015). The Cambridge Economic History of India, Volume 2: c. 1757-c. 1970. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.