How did India's cultural context in the 1950s contribute to the popularity of Edwardian sleeves, as mentioned in the passage?

Explanation

The correct answer is (e) The enduring impact of British colonial influence shaped Indian fashion trends. Reference from the passage: 1. Post-Independence Influence: The passage states: 2. “India had recently gained independence from Britain and the presence of Edwardian sleeves was everywhere, especially in Kolkata (since it had been one of the leading cities in British times),” says Lulla, who has been studying sleeves for decades. This part directly links the popularity of Edwardian sleeves in India during the 1950s to the aftermath of British rule. Even though India had gained independence, the fashion trends in the country were still strongly influenced by the colonial era, especially in cities like Kolkata that had played a significant role during British rule. 3. Fashion Trends in Cinema: The passage also mentions: 4. “The same puff sleeves became a trend in 1950s India when the country’s cinema was taking shape, hence influencing popular culture.” Here, it’s explained that Indian cinema, which was a growing cultural force in the 1950s, adopted these Edwardian-style puff sleeves. Since cinema plays a large role in setting fashion trends, the presence of Edwardian sleeves in films helped spread their popularity throughout India. The reference to “cinema influencing popular culture” highlights that this fashion trend was not isolated but widespread, reaching many parts of society. 74 www.bankersadda.com | Adda247 App 5. British Colonial Influence: o The mention of Kolkata being a key city during British rule ties the Edwardian sleeve trend to India’s colonial past. Kolkata, once a hub of British administrative power, had deeply embedded British cultural and fashion influences. o Lulla’s statement that Edwardian sleeves were "everywhere" during this period reinforces that the British influence had lingered, even though India had achieved independence a few years earlier.