Kashmir Conflict• Continuation of

India-Pakistan Conflict• 1947: Post-Independence

– 2/3 Muslim– 1/3 Hindu– Maharaja of Kashmir was Hindu

• Chose to stay part of India

• WATER is main issue• Threat of NUCLEAR WAR

– UN involvement

• Pakistan blames Indian army• India blames Pakistani terrorism

Women in India • Traditional gender roles:– esp. middle class women– Indian mythology idolizes motherhood– Working women still expected to do housework

• Marriages traditionally arranged– Today couples have more say– Newspaper/internet ads– Dowries sometimes to groom’s family– Brides family pays for wedding– Typically moves in with groom’s family

• Bottom of family hierarchy• Must listen to mother-in-law• Status rises once a son is born

• Sati: cremation of wife on her husbands funeral pyre

BOLLYWOOD• India’s movie industry• Mix of Bombay and Hollywood

– Mumbai (formerly Bombay)

• Over 1000 movies a year – Hollywood 600

• Why Popular?– Culturally appealing – HUGE international audience– Wholesome– Musicals are popular

• Popular films:– Bride and Prejudice– Monsoon Wedding

– Lagaan

Kashmir Conflict Cause and Effect

• Causes: • Effects: