Why did traditional Hungarian rural customs decline during the 20th century?

Traditional Hungarian rural customs, which had remained largely intact through a long period of rootedness, experienced a significant decline during the second half of the 20th century due to the country's rapid and often brutal modernization.1

This transformation fundamentally altered daily life and social structures in the following ways:

• Modernization and Urbanization: As modernization spread from urban centers into the countryside, traditional peasant practices—such as specific styles of dress, food preparation, and entertainment—were largely replaced by international patterns and cosmopolitan influences.12
• Social Shifts: Family structures became smaller, and ties to extended families diminished. The shift toward a more urbanized society led to a decline in traditional customs, with folk music in daily life being largely supplanted by rock and pop music.1
• Economic and Cultural Change: The rise of a market economy and the influence of mass culture contributed to a less traditional cultural environment. While some elements, such as traditional cuisine, remained resilient, many rituals were relegated to the status of folk art or tourist entertainment rather than living, everyday practices.31