In the last few decades, India has witnessed a transformation in societal values that is both fascinating and concerning. On one hand, globalization, technology, and social media have created unprecedented opportunities for growth and learning. On the other hand, the metrics for respect, fame, and recognition seem increasingly skewed. Today, money appears to overshadow knowledge, viral content triumphs over genuine contribution, and wealth often speaks louder than wisdom.
While this trend is visible globally, in India, the implications are particularly stark. Our society, historically rooted in philosophy, knowledge, and culture, seems to be drifting from its core values. People who have made substantial contributions to education, science, and the nation’s welfare often remain unnoticed. Meanwhile, individuals who display provocative behavior, post sensational content online, or flaunt wealth are celebrated as role models.
We explore why this shift is dangerous, highlights unsung heroes like Dr. G.D. Agarwal, and emphasizes the urgent need to restore the balance between money, knowledge, and cultural values.
Money Over Knowledge: A Disturbing Trend
Traditionally, Indian society has revered knowledge—Gyan—and ethical living. Scholars, teachers, saints, and intellectuals were treated with the highest respect. Recognition was not a matter of wealth but of wisdom, service, and moral conduct. Students dreamt of learning from great minds, families took pride in intellectual accomplishments, and communities celebrated ethical and learned individuals.
Today, the story is very different. Social media fame, viral trends, and material wealth often dominate recognition. Platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok reward popularity, sometimes irrespective of content quality. Influencers and content creators who post controversial, provocative, or purely entertaining videos attract millions of followers, brand deals, and mainstream media attention.
Meanwhile, scientists, educators, environmentalists, and reformers—people who spend their lives building knowledge, serving society, or protecting the environment—often remain invisible. Their work, although crucial for the country’s future, rarely receives the fanfare or recognition it deserves.
This shift sends a subtle yet powerful message to the younger generation: “Popularity and wealth matter more than wisdom and values.”
The Content Creator Phenomenon
In the digital age, anyone with a camera or smartphone can become famous. While this democratization of fame has its merits, it has also distorted societal priorities. Viral content often prioritizes shock value, entertainment, or controversy over meaningful learning and intellectual contribution.
Today, it is not uncommon to see content creators using vulgar language, inappropriate gestures, or attention-grabbing antics being celebrated as role models. Many of these individuals are invited as chief guests at events, receive awards, and are glorified by mainstream media—all while scholars, social activists, and educators are largely overlooked.
This phenomenon is alarming because it shapes perceptions of success. Young minds are highly impressionable. If fame and wealth are consistently shown as markers of success, while ethical living and knowledge are ignored, it gradually erodes the very foundation of cultural values.
Dr. G.D. Agarwal: A True Unsung Hero
To truly understand the imbalance in societal recognition, consider the life of Dr. G.D. Agarwal, also known as Swami Gyan Swaroop Sanand. A former professor at IIT Kanpur, Dr. Agarwal devoted his life to the preservation of the Ganga River, one of India’s most sacred natural resources.
His activism was extraordinary. Dr. Agarwal went on repeated hunger strikes to demand government action against the pollution of the Ganga. His protest was not for personal gain, fame, or recognition—it was a selfless fight for the environment and the nation. Despite his significant contributions, most Indians under the age of 30 remain unaware of his existence or his lifelong struggle.
Contrast this with the popularity of content creators who post entertainment-focused or provocative videos online. Many of them are celebrated, invited to high-profile events, and receive brand endorsements. The comparison is stark and troubling: society applauds the loud, flashy, and sensational, while genuine heroes working for meaningful causes often remain in obscurity.
Dr. Agarwal’s story is a wake-up call. It reminds us that true contribution may not always be visible or viral, but its impact is lasting and profound.
Cultural Erosion: Losing Touch With Our Roots
India’s culture has always valued knowledge, discipline, humility, and ethical living. Ancient texts—from the Vedas and Upanishads to the Mahabharata—repeatedly emphasize the importance of learning, wisdom, and righteous conduct. A person’s worth was measured by their knowledge, moral strength, and contributions to society.
Today, trends in media and digital culture are eroding these values. Vulgar entertainment, money-centric fame, and attention-driven content dominate the narrative. Young people are increasingly exposed to these signals, which can create a skewed understanding of success and respect.
The danger is twofold: not only do we start overlooking genuine knowledge and ethical living, but we also risk losing touch with Sanskar (values) and Sanskriti (culture) that have defined India for centuries.
Why Knowledge and Ethics Remain Irreplaceable
Despite the apparent dominance of wealth and popularity, knowledge and ethics remain the cornerstone of true progress. Money can buy comfort, influence, or temporary attention, but only wisdom, learning, and ethical conduct create a lasting legacy.
Consider the lives of renowned Indian intellectuals:
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, whose work in aerospace and nuclear science, still inspires scientists worldwide.
- Amartya Sen, an Indian economist and philosopher, renowned for his work on welfare economics, social justice, and development of human capabilities.
- C. V. Raman was an inspiring Indian scientist whose curiosity about light led him to discover the Raman Effect, a breakthrough that won him the Nobel Prize in 1930.
- Homi J. Bhabha was a visionary Indian physicist who laid the foundation of India’s nuclear program, blending science with a dream for the nation’s progress.
These individuals may not have had millions of followers or social media fame, but their work has transformed society, science, and the nation.
The lesson is clear: wealth is transient, but knowledge and ethics are eternal. True heroes leave a legacy that lasts far beyond their lifetime, even if they are not celebrated on viral platforms.
Steps to Restore Cultural and Knowledge-Based Values
While the current trend is concerning, there are practical ways to restore balance and emphasize knowledge and ethics over mere popularity.
Promote Knowledge on Digital Platforms
Educational institutions, content creators, and social media influencers can highlight scholars, scientists, and social reformers in engaging ways. Short videos, blogs, or interactive posts about figures like Dr. G.D. Agarwal can bring unsung heroes into the limelight.
Recognize Unsung Heroes
Awards, media coverage, and public acknowledgment should not be limited to entertainment or monetary achievements. Governments, NGOs, and cultural organizations can celebrate individuals who dedicate their lives to education, environment, and social reform.
Integrate Culture and Ethics into Education
Schools and universities can teach lessons from Indian history, philosophy, and ethics. Understanding the value of wisdom, service, and ethical living can help students appreciate knowledge over fleeting fame.
Encourage Critical Media Consumption
Youth must learn to discern between meaningful content and entertainment-driven, attention-seeking content. Discussions, workshops, and online campaigns can promote responsible media consumption.
Foster Civic Responsibility
Volunteering, community service, and participation in environmental initiatives instill respect for knowledge and ethics. Students who engage in such activities are more likely to value long-term contribution over short-term fame.
The Role of Parents and Communities
Parents and communities play a crucial role in shaping perceptions of value and respect. Encouraging children to read, engage in debates, appreciate art, and respect scholars can create a generation that values knowledge and ethics. Communities that celebrate local heroes, scientists, and ethical leaders provide examples for young people to follow.
Cultural events, storytelling, and discussions about historical figures and unsung heroes can counterbalance the influence of viral entertainment. By creating environments that value learning and morality, parents and communities can ensure that children grow up respecting substance over superficiality.
Technology: A Double-Edged Sword
Technology is a powerful tool that can either preserve or erode cultural and ethical values. On one hand, the internet provides access to knowledge, global learning opportunities, and platforms to showcase meaningful work. On the other hand, social media algorithms often prioritize engagement over substance, making sensational content more visible than scholarly or ethical contributions.
Awareness of these dynamics is key. By choosing to promote educational content, environmental activism, and cultural knowledge online, society can harness technology for good.
Lessons From Global Perspective
Globally, similar trends exist. Social media fame, viral videos, and monetary success often overshadow intellectual or ethical contributions. However, societies that continue to value education, innovation, and ethical conduct manage to preserve long-term progress.
Countries like Japan, Finland, and Germany celebrate intellectuals, scientists, and ethical leaders, providing role models that inspire generations. India can learn from these examples by prioritizing knowledge and ethics alongside entertainment and wealth.
Conclusion: Striking a Balance
India is at a crossroads. The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for learning, growth, and creativity. Yet, it also challenges our ability to preserve values, culture, and respect for knowledge.
Wealth and fame can be tempting, but they should never overshadow wisdom, ethical living, and meaningful contributions. Figures like Dr. G.D. Agarwal remind us that true heroes may not be celebrated in headlines, but their impact is enduring.
As a society, we must strive to:
- Honor knowledge and wisdom
- Celebrate unsung heroes
- Teach ethics and culture to younger generations
- Promote meaningful contributions over viral fame
By doing so, India can remain a land where knowledge is revered, culture is preserved, and true heroes are celebrated for their contributions—not their wealth or popularity.