For decades, success
was measured through accumulation—bigger homes, more possessions, and visible
consumption. Today, a noticeable shift is occurring where simplicity and
minimalism are increasingly seen as aspirational. In a fast-paced, cluttered,
and digitally saturated world, simplicity promises clarity, balance, and
control.
Less is more, is what
people say nowadays.
The constant overload
of continuous notifications, information overload, and social media comparisons
has created mental fatigue. People often feel overwhelmed by the choices,
expectations, and pressure to “keep up.” Simplicity emerges as a response to
this chaos, offering relief from constant stimulation.
Indian philosophies
have always valued moderation over excess. Concepts such as aparigraha
(non-accumulation), sanyam (self-restraint), and santosh (contentment)
emphasise inner richness over material wealth. Simplicity was historically seen
as spiritual strength, not economic weakness.
Minimalism is not just
an aesthetic; it represents emotional and mental decluttering. Owning less
reduces decision fatigue and stress. The idea of focusing only on what truly
adds value makes life feel lighter and more intentional.
There is also the
changing meaning of luxury added to this. Earlier, luxury meant
excess—expensive goods, large spaces, and visible wealth. Today, luxury is
increasingly defined by time, peace, and flexibility. A slow morning, a quiet
home, or a clutter-free space now feels more aspirational than abundance.
Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of “simple living, high thinking” has deeply shaped
India’s moral framework. Khadi, minimal needs, and self-reliance symbolised
dignity and resistance, not poverty.
Post-liberalisation,
after the 1991 economic reforms, consumption became closely linked to
aspiration and success. Branded goods, cars, gadgets, and lifestyle upgrades
symbolised social mobility. Simplicity temporarily lost aspirational value and
became associated with economic constraint. However, decades of aspirational
consumption have led to financial stress, debt, and burnout. Urban Indians
increasingly experience lifestyle inflation without emotional satisfaction.
Simplicity now feels aspirational because it promises relief from this pressure.
Rapid urbanisation has
resulted in smaller homes and shared living spaces. Minimalism becomes
practical in cities where space is limited and expensive, making it a viable
option. Clean, uncluttered homes represent order and control amid urban chaos. There
is a shift from joint families to nuclear households. Traditional Indian homes
emphasised sharing and reuse due to joint family systems. Nuclear families and
individual ownership increased consumption. Minimalism today reflects a
conscious return to mindful use rather than excess ownership.
In India, the ability
to “choose” simplicity often comes after economic security. Minimalism is
aspirational precisely because it implies freedom from survival anxiety. This
highlights the classed nature of simplicity in modern India.
People have begun
searching for authenticity and distrust performative success and material
excess. Simplicity is associated with authenticity and self-awareness. Living
simply signals confidence and independence from social validation. Rising
conversations around anxiety and stress have shifted priorities. Simplicity
promises mental clarity and emotional stability. Practices long present in
rural and traditional Indian lifestyles are being rediscovered. Urban India now
values practices it once dismissed as “backward.” This reflects changing
definitions of progress.
Simplicity acts as a
control in uncertain times. Economic uncertainty and global crises make
long-term planning difficult. Simplifying life provides a sense of control.
Aspirations shift from expansion to stability.
A slower, simpler life feels aspirational because it feels humane.
