Is India Redefining What ‘Engagement’ Really Means?
The concept of engagement in social media has been a topic of discussion for years. In the global digital landscape, engagement is often measured by likes, comments, shares, and followers. However, India is redefining what engagement means, and it’s a departure from the traditional norms. In this blog post, we’ll explore how the Indian definition of engagement is broader, deeper, and more community-driven.
Gone are the days when engagement was limited to a simple ‘like’ or ‘retweet’. Today, engagement in India has evolved to include a range of activities that are not only participatory but also meaningful. For instance, forwarding WhatsApp messages to family groups has become a common practice, especially during times of crisis or when sharing important news. This act of sharing information is not only a form of engagement but also a way to connect with loved ones and stay informed.
Another aspect of engagement in India is the use of regional languages. In a country with 22 officially recognized languages, social media platforms are flooded with comments and posts in Hinglish, Tamil, Telugu, and other regional languages. This not only ensures that the content is accessible to a wider audience but also reflects the diversity and richness of Indian culture.
Reels, which have become a staple on social media platforms, have also taken on a new meaning in India. Instead of simply creating visually appealing content, Indian creators are using Reels to address local issues, share stories of resilience, and showcase traditional arts and crafts. For instance, a Reel might highlight the struggles faced by farmers in rural India or showcase a traditional dance form. This not only engages the audience but also fosters a sense of community and connection.
India’s love for participating in challenges is another aspect of engagement that’s unique to the country. Whether it’s a dance challenge, a cooking challenge, or a social awareness campaign, Indians are always up for a good challenge. These challenges not only provide entertainment but also encourage participation, creativity, and collaboration.
So, why is India redefining what engagement means? The answer lies in the country’s cultural and social fabric. India is a nation of over 1.3 billion people, with diverse languages, customs, and traditions. The concept of engagement in India is deeply rooted in community and social connections. For Indians, engagement is not just about interacting with a screen but about connecting with others, sharing experiences, and building relationships.
Moreover, India’s digital landscape is characterized by a high degree of mobile penetration, with over 500 million internet users. This has led to the proliferation of social media platforms, which have become an integral part of everyday life. As a result, engagement on social media has become a natural extension of social interactions, with people sharing their thoughts, opinions, and experiences with others.
In conclusion, India is redefining what engagement means by incorporating a range of activities that are participatory, community-driven, and meaningful. Gone are the days when engagement was limited to likes and retweets. Today, engagement in India is about connecting with others, sharing experiences, and building relationships. As the Indian digital landscape continues to evolve, it’s essential for marketers and brands to understand this new definition of engagement and adapt their strategies accordingly.
Source: https://www.growthjockey.com/blogs/social-media-trends-india-global
