Acculturation and Cultural Exchange in Perumal Murugan’s ‘The Last Cloth’ and its Movie Adaptation, Angammal

The paper explores the concept of acculturation in Perumal Murugan's short story "The Last Cloth" and its movie adaptation, Angammal, directed by Vipin Radhakrishnan. The narrative revolves around the complex relationship between a mother and her son, highlighting the cultural tensions that arise from the clash between traditional and modern values. The mother, a village dweller, is forced by her city-bred son to adopt modern attire, specifically wearing a blouse with her saree, which symbolizes the broader theme of acculturation. Through the lens of J.W. Berry's acculturation strategies, the paper analyzes the differing approaches adopted by the mother in the story and the movie. In the short story, the mother exemplifies the "separation" strategy, resisting the change imposed by her son. In contrast, Angammal, the mother in the movie, embodies the "integration" strategy, embracing modernity while maintaining her autonomy and cultural identity. The analysis reveals that the conflict between the mother and son stems from their divergent acculturation strategies. While the son seeks to assimilate into modern culture, the mother strives to preserve her traditional identity. The paper highlights the importance of respecting individual choices and cultural autonomy in the process of acculturation. Ultimately, the study demonstrates how the narrative sheds light on the complexities of cultural adaptation and the significance of understanding and acknowledging the perspectives of individuals from different cultural backgrounds. The comparison between the story and the movie adaptation provides valuable insights into the nuances of acculturation and its impact on personal relationships.