Westernisation is not merely about adopting western attire and lifestyle. M.N. Srinivas defines westernisation as "the changes brought about in Indian society and culture as a result of over 150 years of British rule, the term subsuming changes occurring at different levels…technology, institutions, ideology and values".

There were different kinds of westernisation. One kind refers to the emergence of a westernised sub-cultural pattern through Indian intellectuals who adopted many cognitive patterns, or ways of thinking, and styles of life. Many early 19th century reformers were of this kind. Westernisation also includes the general spread of Western cultural traits such as new technology, dress, food, and changes in habits.

However, westernisation does not necessarily mean that people adopt modern values of democracy and equality. Modernisation began to be associated with positive and desirable values. Initially, it referred to improvement in technology and production processes, but later referred to the path of development that much of west Europe or North America has taken.

In many ways, westernisation and modernisation overlap and co-exist. It is not surprising to find the same person being modern in some ways and traditional in another. This co-existence is often seen as natural to India and many other non-western countries.