‘A place for urban dwellers who seek solitude and peace far from maddening cities, who are looking for authentic rural experiences to refresh their memories’
– Watchword for a popular ‘ethnic village farm’ located in the outskirts of Gurugram
The idyllic image of countryside and romanticization of rural life by the urban population has created the most exasperating contradictions of all time. A couple of months back I had gone for an outing to a village farm that claimed to provide the best rural life experience. While they charged quite handsomely for half a day village-like experience, I wondered how their ‘rural activities’ like camel, bullock and tractor ride, head massage , pottery and portrait paintings along with unlimited food available all the time, was anywhere near the reality of rural India. That is what petty privilege looks like.
The image of cities has been always portrayed as a symbol of capitalist exploitation, productivity, modernity, competition, marked with a fast paced life and a space full of opportunities. On the other hand, villages have been associated with natural, relatively simple, unadulterated notions of living, with close-knit communities and a deep connection to nature. This has led to an urban-rural divide which has functioned to justify the existing social order and hierarchy.
The romanticization of rural life is a common theme in literature, media, and popular culture. However, this idealized portrayal often overlooks the challenges and hardships faced by rural communities. In reality, rural life is far from idyllic, and many rural areas struggle with issues such as poverty, isolation, and limited access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. Rural areas are often seen to offer a more idyllic setting than urban areas, with lush landscapes, rolling hills, and vast expanses of land. The peacefulness and tranquility of rural life are frequently portrayed as an antidote to the stresses and chaos of city life. Rural life is often portrayed as less rushed and more relaxed, with time to appreciate the simple things in life, such as a beautiful sunset or a good book. The idea of living at a slower pace with less pressure is often romanticized as a way to achieve a more meaningful and fulfilling life. In addition to this, there is a tendency among the urban masses to imagine rural people as a homogenous group. This limited view erases the diversity of experiences and perspectives within rural communities, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about urban areas, and perpetuating a narrative of nostalgia for an idealized past. The romanticized view of rural life can prevent us from understanding and addressing the real issues that rural communities face. Lastly, the romanticization of rural life is also tied to nostalgia for the past. Rural life is often associated with a simpler, more traditional way of life that is seen as being lost in modern society.
This romanticization of rural life creates a distorted view of the challenges faced by rural communities. For example, the myth of the “noble farmer” who works hard on his land and lives a simple, wholesome life can obscure the reality of rural poverty, where many farmers struggle to make ends meet and must rely on government assistance to survive. In conclusion, while there are certainly aspects of rural life that are appealing and worthy of celebration, it is important to acknowledge the challenges faced by rural communities and to avoid romanticizing rural life to the point where it becomes detached from reality.