Understanding Holi- The Festival of Color and Joy
Holi, one of India’s most vibrant and joyous festivals, is celebrated with excitement and enthusiasm across the country and by Indian communities worldwide. Known as the Festival of Colors, Holi marks the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. While the festival has ancient roots, it’s evolved into a colorful celebration of life, love, and community.
Indian Beauty Rituals – from Mockworthy Oily Hair to $7 Turmeric Lattes
Like many young South Asian children, I grew up with weekly hair oiling sessions, haldi doodh when I had a cold and ajvain water for cramps. These at home fixes may sound familiar to a lot of us. Growing up, a lot of us were pushed to follow these beliefs when it came to our well being, because they were tried and true by our ancestors. For me, though, these very quickly became the source of an ever difficult schooling experience.
The Communication (Or Lack Thereof) in South Asian Culture and it’s Effect on a Collectivist Culture
South Asians have made it a social norm to speak more through silence and gestures, than their actual voices. Why is it that in this collectivist culture, built on societies and relying on one another, that people ultimately choose silence?
The Importance of Chai in South Asian Socialization
Today, chai is much more than a drink. It is a thread that ties together social, cultural, economic, and historical narratives in South Asia. From being a symbol of hospitality to an integral part of social life, chai continues to evolve but remains a beloved presence in South Asian culture.
The Catch-22 of Conservative Indian Households and Boys
Growing up, it was cemented in my brain to stay away from boys…at all costs. In fourth grade I had my first crush on a football player from my hometown, and I had no idea how to act. I would profusely sweat in his presence, he couldn’t pronounce my last name, a match made in heaven.
Am I Becoming My Indian Parents? The Evergreen Topic of Inflation and the Role it Plays in South Asian Socialization
As a first generation South Asian immigrant, it wasn’t uncommon for us to hear our parents frequently discuss finances. Whether it was with friends, family, or directed directly at the television news, it was a common topic in Indian households across the board.