Volume IV Special Issue II February 2024

Name of Author : M Cathrine Christy, Dr. A R Chitra

Title of the paper : Fusion of Ethnic Diversity Via Cuisine: An Influential Means to Acknowledge Ethno-Relativism

Abstract: Though the contemporary world order is culturally diverse, its variability is not incorporated into social organisation. Lack of cultural sensitivity forbids people from having a disposition towards intercultural competence. Movies namely The Hundred-Foot Journey 2014 and East Side Sushi 2014 revolve around the lives of lead characters who grapple to overcome eccentricity due to ethnic differences. The plot of these movies showcases the profound connection between the lives of the characters and the culinary arts. The prime objective of the paper is to expose the significant need for intercultural competence to lead a harmonious life in this globalized world. The article will explore the different stages that individuals have undergone to attain ethno-relativism based on Milton Bennetts theoretical concept of Developmental Model of Intercultural Sensitivity DMIS. The study would reflect upon how food, as a persuasive medium, paves the way for individuals to assimilate into a different ethnicity thereby transforming mankind to welcome cultural differences. It would also disclose how the characters love and zeal towards culinary arts aids them in overcoming the obstacle of sustaining in a different cultural locale. It also unravels how they get assimilated into a different ethnicity, thereby upholding their cultural values.

Keywords : Culinary arts, Ethnic differences, Ethno-relativism, Cultural & Intercultural sensitivity.

DOI :

Page Number : 77-85