Post-independence

Definition

Post-independence refers to the period following a country’s achievement of sovereignty and self-governance, where the focus often shifts towards nation-building, cultural revival, and the development of national identity. This era is crucial for understanding how newly independent nations redefine their cultural expressions, particularly in music and the arts, as they seek to establish a unique national identity distinct from their colonial past.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-independence Sri Lanka saw a resurgence of traditional music forms like Kandyan and Low Country traditions as symbols of national pride and cultural identity.
2. The Kandyan tradition is characterized by its connection to ancient royal courts and rituals, reflecting the island's history and its unique cultural heritage.
3. Low Country music incorporates influences from various ethnic communities, showcasing the diversity within Sri Lankan culture after independence.
4. The post-independence era in Sri Lanka also witnessed government efforts to promote traditional arts through education and state-sponsored festivals.
5. Musicians during this time often blended traditional forms with modern influences to create a new genre that celebrated national identity while appealing to contemporary audiences.

Review Questions

• How did post-independence affect the development of Kandyan and Low Country music traditions in Sri Lanka?
  • Post-independence brought significant attention to Kandyan and Low Country music traditions as symbols of Sri Lankan identity. Artists sought to revive these styles to foster a sense of national pride and belonging. This revival was not only about preserving historical music forms but also about adapting them to reflect contemporary social values while honoring their rich cultural roots.
• In what ways did nationalism influence the musical landscape of Sri Lanka during the post-independence period?
  • Nationalism played a crucial role in shaping the musical landscape of post-independence Sri Lanka by encouraging a focus on local music traditions. As people sought to establish their national identity, music became a medium for expressing pride in their cultural heritage. This led to an increased interest in Kandyan and Low Country music, with artists integrating elements of nationalism into their compositions and performances, thus reinforcing their significance in modern Sri Lankan society.
• Evaluate how the post-independence era influenced cultural revival movements in Sri Lanka, particularly in relation to its traditional music forms.
  • The post-independence era was pivotal for cultural revival movements in Sri Lanka, especially concerning traditional music forms like Kandyan and Low Country traditions. The need for a cohesive national identity prompted initiatives that emphasized rediscovering and promoting indigenous musical practices. These movements not only preserved traditional music but also encouraged innovation within these genres, blending them with contemporary styles. As such, this era marked a transformative period where music became both a celebration of heritage and an avenue for artistic expression in response to modern influences.

Related terms

Nationalism: A political ideology that emphasizes the interests and culture of a particular nation, often leading to the promotion of national identity and unity among its people.

Cultural Revival: The process of rediscovering and re-emphasizing traditional practices, arts, and customs as a means to foster national identity and pride after a period of colonial rule.

Decolonization: The process through which colonies gain independence from colonial powers, leading to significant political, social, and cultural transformations in the newly sovereign states.