India

is a land known only too well for its diversity of life. Its crowded millions comprise a social fabric that seems to be held together by its numerous divisions and sub-divisions into categories of ethnic type, caste, religion and income. The elaborateness and complexity of the social hierarchy is also reflected in the physical environment by an incredible variety of textures, colors, sensations and gestures that are generated in the process of daily living. Naturally, all attempts at conceptually simplifying, let alone resolving the profusion of currents and conflicts in Indian life seem destined for failure. And yet, occasionally the fog lifts, and it is possible to perceive in India the manifestation of only one essential division; a division that places on one side an India that inhabits a deep interior out of which only occasional inquisitive forays are made. An immensely powerful tradition, a complete spiritual self-sufficiency, a timelessness and an unfamiliarity with the material world characterize this esoteric interior.

ON THE OTHER SIDE, there is an India that is a more recent phenomenon; this India seems to have taken a step outside and is adapting to the strong external light rather well. The process of adaptation has been a more difficult and sometimes painful one and more problems in the future are inevitable. But that future is faced with a bold sort of confidence which probably derives from the traditional and cultural heritage that was salvaged from the 'interior' and has endured.