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culture. lifestyle. morals.


thanks-giving back.

11/23/2017

1 Comment

 
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GARAMASALAS EDITORS- These days, it’s easy to look around at the world and feel disheartened by what you see. With the current social and political climate, people worldwide are feeling hopeless. Among these dark, dark clouds, what better day to look for silver linings than Thanksgiving? Today is a day to stop and think about what you do have rather than what you don’t. It’s a day to look at your circumstances and be grateful for the people and things that bring joy and love into your life.

​Not everyone has all — or any — of the things many of us take for granted, like our families, friends and health. For those of you who are fortunate enough to have the extra time and/or money, the Garamasalas staff urges you to consider giving back this season and brightening the day of someone who is in a position less favorable than yours. We’ve created a list of acts of kindness that is versatile enough for everyone to choose at least one or two and help spread the love today. ​​
​
  1. Smile and say hello to a stranger you pass by.
  2. Give a genuine compliment to a cashier or server.
  3. Put a surprise note in a loved one’s bag.
  4. Pay for the person behind you in a drive-thru.
  5. Write a small letter to your parents telling them how much you appreciate them.
  6. Hold the door for the people behind you.
  7. Make cards for soldiers or people in the hospital.
  8. Call someone you know who’s having a hard time and just listen to them for as long as they’d like.
  9. Tell someone face-to-face how much they mean to you.
  10. Make blankets to donate to hospitals or homeless shelters.
  11. Cook a meal or do a load of laundry for a loved one who’s going through a tough time
  12. Let the person behind you at the supermarket checkout with one or two items go ahead of you.
  13. Volunteer or donate to a food bank.
  14. Put sticky notes with positive messages on the mirrors in restrooms.
  15. Play board games with senior citizens at a nursing home (sixty percent of them will never have a visitor during their stay).
  16. Give someone who's crying in public a tissue, and offer to listen to them if they’re comfortable with it.
  17. Tell a customer service rep that you appreciate their hard work and hope they have a wonderful day.
  18. Compliment someone in front of others.
  19. Create a playlist for someone you care about.
  20. Apologize to someone with whom you don’t get along.
  21. Say yes at the store when the cashier asks if you want to donate $1 to a cause.
  22. Give a hug to someone you know and just say thank you.
  23. Call your mom.
  24. Gather some friends and pick up trash along a particularly litter-filled street in your town.
  25. Make a little extra food as you’re cooking and share it with someone who needs a fresh meal.​

​If you’re searching for food to share, look no further! Each member of the Garamasalas team has shared their favorite Thanksgiving recipe for you to enjoy.
madeline's stuffing
​This signature stuffing recipe comes from Madeline's great-grandmother and has been passed down through her family for generations. It stems from the belief that the turkey isn't the only thing that makes Thanksgiving great. 
praneeka's stuffed tandoori chicken
Every year Praneeka’s family makes traditional Thanksgiving dishes with an Indian twist. In place of the traditional turkey, try out their aloo-stuffed chicken this year! For more of her adapted recipes, check out our previous Thanksgiving post.
shail's paneer tikka masala
Non-veg recipes not your style? Try Shail’s family paneer tikka masala. One of the richest vegetarian recipes in Indian cuisine, this timeless favorite is sure to satisfy even the pickiest of palates.
ragini's ladoos
On auspicious days, it is customary in Indian culture to distribute sweets among family, friends, and strangers. Most often, the sweets being shared are bite-sized spheres made of fried gram flour called ladoos. Make a batch at home and share the love! ​

​This year, the Garamasalas staff is thankful for all of you. Every click, every view, every share means so much to us. We couldn't do this without your continued support. Thank you, and happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours. 

illustration credit: debracartwright
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unheard. (#MeToo)

10/19/2017

0 Comments

 
trigger warning: sexual harrassment/assault
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P.R. -

/one year before/
a narrow alleyway

my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but just like the music filling my ears
they were upbeat
happy
confident

three shadows

my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but just like my heartbeat
they were gaining speed
uneasiness
trepidation

a hand on my neck
fingers pulling down my dress zipper

my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but just like my voice
they would not budge
lost
empty

another emerging shadow
a woman

my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but i could hear
the handful of words
​the woman yelled at me
run, i’ll take care of this!
my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but just like the tears
streaming down my cheeks
they were fast
racing
an escape

/since then/
every moment

every instance of interaction
with tall men hindered
because of my assaulters

every occasion of choosing
whether or not to wear vibrant colors
because of being assaulted in a bright pink dress

every street, every corner
my footsteps i couldn't hear at all
but i could feel them
numb
distraught

/now/
i am still hurting
but the difference:
i am healing
i shall not be weakened

i can finally hear my footsteps.
illustration credit: tara o brien 
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hot chocolate.

8/1/2017

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PRANEEKA & S.N.-
she's not the same colour
​as ivory and pearls
what a shame.
she looks of the night sky
​instead of the moon
what a shame.
she should have stayed out of the sun
she should have done whatever it takes
what a shame.


​it's a curse

i can't be beautiful
i can't be comfortable
i simply must endure

the mistreatment
the judgment
​the criticism
even to dark men
dark girls can't win

even if he's darker than the skin i'm in
​to be with a dark-skinned girl is a sin
in their eyes
​i'm only almost pretty

if i weren't so dark
i might be worth
​love and appreciation
​care and admiration

instead i'm just
tolerated

i want to be taught how to love myself
not to better myself

​
​my complexion
not a definition of my character
my accomplishments
​my being
my skin
the color of a chestnut seed
coffee with no cream
dark toffee
bubbling caramelized sugar
earthy mahogany wood
my identity
much more
​than the pigment of my skin

​
​on the outside

you're porcelain
frost
​cotton
i'm cocoa
buckwheat honey
gingerbread
on the inside

​we're both
nothing but blood red.
illustration credit​: almondmilkchild
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thand rakh thursday // chill summer jams.

6/21/2017

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PRANEEKA, RAGINI, & SHIVANI- Summer is the most anticipated time of the year, and it's officially here! For many, the season brings with it an opportunity to take a break from working and just relax. It's a time to sit by the pool, sip lemonade, and spend time with friends. These playlists are for chill days like those. Whether you're lying in a hammock, reading a book by the lake, or just staying in, these songs are here to help you unwind.
PRANEEKA & SHIVANI- tamil playlist // note: yelani is a tamil word for tender coconut water.

yelani from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

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RAGINI- hindi playlist // note: lassi is a popular indian yogurt-based drink.

lassi. from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

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(best) F・R・I・E・N・D・S // in honor of national best friend's day!

6/8/2017

3 Comments

 
MADELINE- Long-distance friendships are far easier than they used to be. Forty years ago, if you wanted to stay in touch with someone who lived far away, you were restricted to phone calls and hand-written letters that are considered personal and cute now, but were strictly practical back then.

But with the advent of cell phones and texting, and, more recently, video chatting, Snapchat, and Facebook, you can Skype your friend in California who wants to show off her new dress, and you can see what your friend from Toronto had for breakfast on his Snapchat story. Everything is so up close and personal - we can share the most minute details of our lives with people halfway across the world. It seems that it would be easy to keep up with a friend who lives far away.

So why is it still so hard? If you graduate and stop seeing someone every day, or someone moves away, you'll probably still drift apart from them, even if you can see pictures of them on Snapchat drinking a low-fat cappuccino while they highlight their Bible in random places. It's true that technology has made long-distance friendships infinitely easier in some ways, but in others, it seems just as difficult as it was back in the olden days. How do people do it?

To answer this question, we've decided to compile a series of interviews between two pairs of long-distance friends: Shail and Praneeka, and Patrick and Ragini.

SHAIL-

Q: When did you meet?

​
A: Praneeka and I met in the eighth grade thanks to the lovely Ms. Gutierrez, our Spanish 1 Pre-AP teacher.

Q: How did you meet?

A:  Well, Ms. Gutierrez often had these exercises in which she’d have people get up and recite a few words from the screen. During one of these, the girl next to me, Praneeka, butchered one of the words, and I have given her a hard time ever since. As for when I first saw her, it was the second day of class. The first day I was too focused on finding an available seat and finishing my assignments. I must say, poking her on her back and teasing her was by far one of the best memories I have of middle school. She didn’t seem to like it very much.

Q: Where do you each live?

A: I attend the University of Texas at San Antonio, and Praneeka goes to the University of Texas at Dallas. As for when we’re home, Praneeka lives in Dallas; I live in Houston.

Q: Do you have any distinct nicknames for each other?

A: Oh my gosh, yes. PRASNEAKERS.

Q: What’s your favorite memory together?

A: Surprising the hell out of her after 4 years of never seeing each other. Actually, I still remember the first time we facetimed after about 2 years of just texting. I talked about outfits. It was so spontaneous.

Q: How did it affect your friendship when you separated? Did it put a strain on your relationship?

A: To be honest, this question highlights the significance of the relationship Praneeka and I have. Meaning, distance strained our relationship so much that - at one given point - we were no more than mere acquaintances. Feelings of animosity resonated between us. She felt that I wasn’t putting enough effort into our friendship, and I felt that this was an unfair judgement as I’ve never really been one to text all too frequently. A lesson I’ve learned from this is that it’s in the most desperate, dark, shattered moments that we come to realize who we truly are. From there, we build, mold, adjust, adapt, and shine ever so brightly. So yes. At one given point, we were barely friends. But now we’ve struck our balance, and I don’t see her ever being anything less than my best friend.

Q: How do you make time to keep in touch?

A: HA. I suck at this. The thing is, I didn’t. At first, especially. Now, she’s become such an integral aspect of my life that I don’t have to “make” time for her. She’s a huge part of it. Whenever I’m overly stressed, she’s my go-to. Perhaps I have something to get off my chest; there she is. If I’m excited and don’t know who to tell - what better option than my best friend? Keeping in touch is never a burden anymore and I love that about our friendship now.

Q: You’ve been friends for a long time. Do you feel like you know everything about each other or are there still things left to discover?

A: Disregarding the fact that I’m a horrible friend and often forget the simplest of things, I will never stop discovering things about Praneeka Raman. From the way she sees the world to the hobbies she pursues, she’s a dynamic woman who simply has more depth to her than the mind can comprehend.

Q: Do you have any advice for people worried about losing touch with their friends who are moving?

A: Make. Time. For. Them. I hated it, and you probably do, too, but it’s an important part of maintaining a healthy friendship. Genuinely take care of them. Facetime them (texting sucks). Is it their birthday? Write a letter (yes, a physical one using actual pen and paper) to them. Perhaps it’s your friend-anniversary. Celebrate it! Don’t have one? Make one up! Just continue to show them the love and care they deserve. Friends truthfully keep us grounded and sane. Without them, the world would crush us. OH, side note: Snapchat doesn’t necessarily count.

Q: In one line, addressing your best friend, say something you’ve always wanted to tell them.

A: A million lines would not be enough to express what I have to say to her, so how can one? Alas, I shall try. Praneeka, imagine the weight of a thousand worlds, and you’ll have an idea as to how much influence and significance your word has on my life. Thank you.
PRANEEKA-

Q: When did you meet?

A: Shail and I met in the beginning of 8th grade and have been friends ever since.

Q: How did you meet?

A: We technically met on the first day of the infamous Señora Gutierrez’s Spanish I class. Our teacher said we could choose our seats because she was heavily against the idea of assigned seating. My friends and I conveniently grouped together in one area of the classroom, but there was one empty seat next to me. Mrs. Gutierrez began class rambling in Spanish as an attempt to wow us with “the power of language.” She was in the middle of a sentence that, at the time, was nonsensical to us when Shail loudly opened the door. Since he was late and there weren’t many open seats in the room, he quickly chose to sit at the vacant desk right next to me. Since then, what started as a series of forced interactions practicing mediocre Spanish has now become one of the best friendships of my life.

Q: Where do you each live?

A: I live in Dallas and currently study at UTD. Shail used to live in Dallas as well, but he later moved to Houston and now goes to UTSA.

Q: Do you have any distinct nicknames for each other?

A: It’s so hard to make an original nickname for this boy! Shimmy, Jimbo, Jimbotron, Jimbalaya, Jimothy, Jimmy Neutron...just to name a few. (I have many more, but he just doesn’t know about them hehe.)

Q: What’s your favorite memory together?

A: I actually have two favorite memories. First one: with the help of my other best friend Ragini, he coordinated a surprise visit to see me for the first time in four years. It was on the day of my hardest final, so I was very emotionally drained, but he made me feel better instantly. We had only kept up with each other through text and Snapchat for years, but our relationship honestly didn’t feel real until this day. Second one is kind of a continuous memory: every year we try to send long and sentimental messages/letters on each others’ birthdays. Because of school and other commitments, it’s hard for us to keep in touch, so this is the one time of year we can just put everything out there. I don’t know if I can speak for Shail, but it’s something I look forward to every year. We’ve successfully done this for five consecutive years, and hopefully we can keep the tradition going!

Q: How did it affect your friendship when you separated? Did it put a strain on your relationship?

A: When Shail and I were becoming friends in the beginning of our 8th grade year, he warned me not to get too close because he was moving to Houston in the summer. However, we naturally spent a lot of time getting to know each other and became close friends. Summer came and he had to move, which was devastating for me. We didn’t know if we would be able to see each other again and if our friendship would even last. Our fears did become a reality for a while; we never actually saw each other in person during the entirety of our high school career. We attempted to text, snap, and call whenever we got the chance, but I was still scared that we would drift apart someday due to the distance. At one point I felt like I was forcing a friendship between us because I would text him too much and I wouldn’t get any sort of reply. Communication got difficult at times, which caused misunderstandings. We momentarily drifted apart, just as I thought we would. We could have easily given up on each other right then and there, but we ended up doing the exact opposite. In order for us to regain our friendship, we had step out of our comfort zones. I had to voice out my concerns even when it was uncomfortable for me, while Shail had to open up more about his life and be willing to talk about it. It was definitely difficult at first, but now our bond has mended and is stronger than ever before. Just a year ago, I thought our broken relationship was too far gone and could not be saved. Boy, was I wrong. To this very day, Shail is the first person I go to when I’m hitting low points in my life, and he never fails to be there for me when I need him most. Distance was the hardest obstacle we had to overcome, and I can now proudly say that we did it! Distance makes the heart tear into a million pieces but grow fonder in the end...that’s how the saying goes, right?

Q: How do you make time to keep in touch?

A: Before, I used to always make too much time to talk to him that it became unhealthy for both of us. Soon enough, I realized what was the missing piece of the puzzle: I needed to take a step back. I thought, well if he wanted to talk to me, then that’s up to him. I can’t force him. It resulted in a smoother friendship in which we could grow and support each other in a more natural way. Now, keeping in touch doesn’t feel like a chore. There’s nothing better than having a friendship that’s so effortless but also so worthwhile.

Q: You’ve been friends for a long time. Do you feel like you know everything about each other or are there still things left to discover?

A: This guy has changed so much in the past five years alone. Of all of my friends, Shail is the one human I love learning new things about. He has a depth to him that many people fail to appreciate. He is an open-minded person, so his personality is adaptable and ever changing. The one thing I know for certain is that Shail will always have a positive outlook on whatever the world throws at him. I trust that he won’t let negativity set him back and instead will push through to pursue what makes him truly happy.

Q: Do you have any advice for people worried about losing touch with their friends who are moving?

A: Friendship is all about balance and reciprocation. Communicate and support each other, but remember it’s also very important to respect each other’s space. Find ways other than texting and snapchatting to keep in touch. Calling or video chatting are excellent alternatives. If possible, take the chance and meet up in person every now and then. Read the same book and have a conversation about it. Watch a movie together via Internet. Be pen pals if you like to have things on paper instead of on a computer or phone. The possibilities are endless! The process is up to you, as long as you know how to prioritize and maintain your connection.

Q: In one line, addressing your best friend, say something you’ve always wanted to tell them.

A: Jimmy, when I first met you I didn’t know you were going to be this important to me; I hope we conquer whatever lies in store for us together as a team, forever and always.
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Photos by Akshar Patel

PATRICK- 

Q: When did you meet?

A:  We met in 7th grade, but we became friends in 8th grade.

Q: How did you meet?

A: We met at a pep rally where we got into an argument about which one of us was more of a nerd. I won, and I continue to prove it to this day.

Q: Where do you each live?

A: Physically, I live in Ithaca, New York. Mentally, I live in the moment.

Q: Do you have any distinct nicknames for each other?

A: [Nickname redacted]

Q: What’s your favorite memory together?

A:I don't know if I can pinpoint a specific instance in time that was my favorite moment with Ragini because my friendship with her is a never-ending series of iconic moments, but the defining memory of our friendship  — I think — is our Algebra II class sophomore year of high school. We incessantly snapped each other bad selfies from across the room, talked about whichever nerdy show we were watching, and, most importantly, never did our homework or paid attention. That class is probably where we became as close as we are now.

Q: How did it affect your friendship when you separated? Did it put a strain on your relationship?

A: Honestly, it didn’t. Ragini left for TAMS junior year of high school, and it was difficult not having my best friend there every day. However, Ragini and I have such similar personalities and a strong foundation that it was not difficult to remain friends. Despite being physically separated, our friendship began to grow even more. Although we haven’t lived in the same place for 3 years now and don’t see each other in person for months at a time, I think we’ve become like siblings to one another.

​Q: How do you make time to keep in touch?

A: It’s not difficult to make time for something you enjoy. Ragini is the first person I go to when I need a pick me up. We send each other pictures, videos, tweets, and texts that honestly make our friendship feel like a comedy show — like Friends, but with millennials, and I have a habit of binge watching that kind of thing.

Q: You’ve been friends for a long time. Do you feel like you know everything about each other or are there still things left to discover?

A: I think we know each other's humor pretty well, but the defining characteristic of our friendship in my opinion is that we don’t try to pressure one another to behave a certain a way. For now, I don’t think we know everything about each other because our personalities aren’t done developing yet. However, I do think I know Ragini well enough to know that no matter who we are in a year or in 50, we’re still going to be there for each other.

Q: Do you have any advice for people worried about losing touch with their friends who are moving?

A: Don’t pressure yourselves to talk constantly. Give yourself and your friend room to grow, and you’ll stay in touch if your friendship is strong enough for you to be worried about losing touch.

Q: In one line, addressing your best friend, say something you’ve always wanted to tell them.

A: Ragini, I value your opinion of me above any other person’s.
RAGINI-
​

Q: When did you meet?

A: Pat and I met in seventh grade at Forestwood Middle School, but we didn’t become friends until eighth grade.

Q: How did you meet?

A: This is actually one of my favorite friendship origin stories. Patrick and I sat near each other at a pep rally towards the end of seventh grade. I, an unenthusiastic middle-schooler with stuff to do, had brought my math textbook and thought I was so different and weird for doing my homework at a pep rally. I was being really obnoxious about it and Patrick overheard. He and I then got in a full blown argument about who was nerdier: him for having taken the SAT in 7th grade, or me for bringing a textbook to the pep rally. Let it be known that I truly resented this kid at this point. That was our first and last fight.
We met again in eighth grade when we were in the same science class. At first I didn’t recognize him as my archnemesis from the pep rally so we instantly became friends. By the time I realised that he was the guy I had gotten in the most ridiculous confrontation of all time with, we had become too close for me to harbor any resentment towards him.

Q: Where do you each live?

A: We both live in Flower Mound, Texas, but Patrick goes to Cornell in New York while I attend UT Dallas.

Q: Do you have any distinct nicknames for each other?

A: I have a ton of nicknames for him: Pat, Patty, Pattycake, Petrock, the list goes on and on. My friends also have a large variety of nicknames for me, but Patrick is the only one I allow to call me Ragi. We also joke that we’re twins because we were actually born on the same day, so all sibling-related nicknames are on the table.

Q: What’s your favorite memory together?

​A: Patrick and I have celebrated our birthday together since eighth grade. This past year, on our 19th, we were 1500 miles apart and unable to wish each other in person for the first time in years. I was pretty upset about missing our tradition, so to make up for it, we FaceTimed late the night before our birthday and counted down to midnight in each of our time zones. He opened my gift and we went through birthday messages together; it was a great reminder that despite the distance we could still find ways to keep our friendship strong.

Q: How did it affect your friendship when you separated? Did it put a strain on your relationship?

A: Strangely enough, Pat and I got closer around eleventh grade when I left Flower Mound High School and started to go to TAMS. We were friends before that, but we hardly ever hung out or even texted. When I left, it made me really think about who I wanted to keep in touch with. I made group chats with all my Flower Mound friends and made sure to make time for the people I wasn’t willing to leave behind. Patrick and I started talking more often because of this and now we’re closer than ever before.

Q: How do you make time to keep in touch?

A: Depending on how busy we are, we have different ways of making sure we don’t become too distant. Obviously, texting and snapchatting are a given, but we also use the website rabb.it to watch movies and binge shows together. Even if he’s busy, I send him memes on Twitter and tag him in Tumblr posts for him to see when he has free time. When Patrick’s back in town, he visits me at UTD and we hit up our favorite spot (Torchy’s Tacos) as often as possible. This summer, we’ve started going to the gym together everyday to make up for lost time.

Q: You’ve been friends for a long time. Do you feel like you know everything about each other or are there still things left to discover?

A: Anyone who knows Patrick will agree that he’s kind of a mysterious guy. Not in a traditionally secretive, distant, aloof sort of way - he’s far too jovial for that - but in a way that sneaks up on you. It keeps things interesting because his consistently cheerful demeanor distracts you from the fact that you don’t know little things - like his middle name or where he lives - despite having known him for five years. Although I think I know Patrick better than most people, I still always feel like there’s more backstory to unlock with him. I love that after all this time I’m still able to learn new things about my best friend.

Q: Do you have any advice for people worried about losing touch with their friends who are moving?

A: Be understanding, be flexible, and be creative. It’s important to remember that people get busy and you may not have as much time for each other as you want. Just because you don’t talk as much for a while doesn’t mean either of you care any less, and there are still ways to stay connected.

Q: In one line, addressing your best friend, say something you’ve always wanted to tell them.

A: I know you have a lot going on and it gets pretty stressful at times, but it’s inspiring how you manage to balance it all and still be the most positive person I know.
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Photos by Tanvi Khanduri
3 Comments

"shhhh! log kya kahenge? what will people think?" // addressing the mental health stigma in south asian culture.

5/31/2017

2 Comments

 
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PRANEEKA- 

"If any part of our body is sick, we go to the doctor
But no one goes to the doctor when their mind is sick
As if the mind is not part of the body at all.
" --Shah Rukh Khan as Dr. Jehangir in Dear Zindagi

On January 27, 2013, Shreya’s parents informed my friends and me that Shreya* had “passed away due to unknown causes.”

What her parents did not tell us is that Shreya attempted suicide and succeeded. She killed herself.

Oh sorry, did I say the “s” word? Is it hard for you to stomach? Does it make you flinch a little bit? My question to you is: why? Why does it hurt to say words like suicide, depression, self-harm, and therapy? Why are we silent on these things when they are becoming increasingly common in our culture?

My friend was every Indian family's poster child; she was a beautiful, bright student who had plans to pursue a career in medicine and knew how to make everyone around her feel good about themselves. Everyone thought, why would such a perfect girl even think of ending her life? I read a news article about my friend’s mother answering a similar question and the following was her response:

“My daughter never told me anything. She never said anything about being depressed or any of that nonsense. The only mildly concerning thing she ever said was that she didn’t think her career path in becoming a doctor was right for her. That was solved though because [my husband and I] told her to keep going and push through. She was doing well the last time I checked, but now it’s all gone. We don’t know what to do or say. Our family back home [in India] doesn’t know about this yet, and we don’t know how to tell them. What are they going to think?” She fades off to a mumble, tears forming in her eyes.

I hope you found many problems with what this woman said. One. She dismissed the idea of depression in such a condescending manner. Two. Instead of properly addressing their child’s request for help, the parents continued to push the girl into doing something she did not wish to pursue. Three. She prioritized family reputation over her own daughter.

A few days after Shreya committed suicide, the police found Shreya’s journal and went through the text messages left on her phone. Her diary consisted of dark poems and doodles, and texts with friends included statements such as “my mind feels blank,” “I feel trapped,” and “I’m scared of my parents” scattered in their conversations. None of this evidence came as a surprise to me; I knew all about this side of Shreya. This girl was far from perfect! She regularly had panic attacks. Instead of becoming a doctor, she wanted to become a journalist. Her parents had more control of her life than she ever did. She didn’t magically change her outlook on life just like that, as her parents had claimed. Her mental health gradually deteriorated until she could take no more. It is horrible to say, but it all added up.

You might ask, why didn’t Shreya just ask for help? The answer lies in the ingrained behaviors that make up our community’s lifestyle. Mental health did not become a concern for many immigrant South Asians until they moved from their respective countries. In a 2004 study, an immigrant Indian woman subject exclaims, “We didn’t know what the meaning of depression was. We only heard about it, now here we know what the meaning of depression is.” The woman went on to explain how there is more accessibility to mental health services in the western world than there is back home: “In India we would only visit the doctor when we are sick. Here [in North America], even if you are healthy we still go for a checkup.” She also discusses South Asians’ affinity with using home remedies instead of seeking traditional medication because they are “uncomfortable with the notion of seeking medical help more regularly,” and would avoid burdening others. In a report from the US Surgeon General, it has been found that Asian Americans are “more likely to exhibit complaints of depression than are African Americans or whites, but Asians are thought to deny the experience and expression of emotions.” Due to this restricting stereotype, Asian Americans have “the lowest rates of utilization of mental health services among ethnic populations.” Rather than being emotionally honest, we would rather prefer silence and internalize our pain so we won’t be perceived as weak.

South Asians also subscribe to what is known as a model minority stereotype. Our community includes some of the highest-income, best-educated, and fastest-growing individuals in North America and places higher value on marriage, hard work, and career success compared to other Americans. High expectations are forced upon and extreme success stories are thrown as unrealistic comparisons at the future generations of South Asians. My brown friends, you know what I’m talking about. Vidhya got a National Academics Award for getting a perfect score on the math section of the SAT in seventh grade. Abhi took the MCAT two years early and is already in medical school. Sanjana got an MBA at Yale University and now earns $250k a year. Due to these sorts of extraordinary examples, their understanding of what most professions entail is skewed and now anecdotal. Raziman, a nanophotonics postdoc, states that South Asian parents “hear that so and so professions have good job security, earn enough money, and are well respected in society. Money, security, and status are buzzwords that every parent drools over. As a result, they tend to disregard their child’s passion as the stupidity of youth, and enforces their wishes on them.” Parents force their children into becoming cookie cutter copies of their exemplary peers, all eventually becoming doctors and engineers. They fail to understand that not all children can be thrown into this mass manufacturing of STEM career-focused professionals. Other jobs not relating to mathematics and science are looked down upon and are thought to not hold as high of a reputation in society. Much to our community’s disbelief, there are outstanding South Asian individuals in non-STEM fields, too! Just to name a few: Aziz Ansari, Mindy Kaling, Hasan Minhaj, Dev Patel, Sameer Gadhia, Anchal Joseph, Pico Iyer, Padma Lakshmi, Norah Jones, Nav, Fareed Zakaria, Pooja Kumar. The list goes on and on. It is important for parents to realize and guide their children to do something they would enjoy for a long period of time. If they are forced to pursue a career they are not passionate about merely for the status and security, they will not be true to themselves for their rest of their lives and will eventually emotionally burn out.

In South Asian cultures, there are beliefs that drive this stigma of mental illness. For instance, it is presumed that mental illness occurs because individuals are too weak to deal with such problems and can be cured by free will. However, mental illnesses are like any other medical disorder: they cannot simply be controlled by the suffering individual. There is no way humans can attain perfection; we all have mental struggles. There is no value to you in staying silent about your pain and no shame in asking for professional help and/or medicine. Even if you may be perceived as weak or you are putting your reputation on the line to save yourself, I highly advise you to take action. My friend Shreya deserved the world in return for the things she did for me. Every day I regret not offering help when she needed it most, so this post is the least I can do for her. I use her story to shed light on how ignorant our community is in terms of aiding those with mental illness. Listed below are some online resources available for South Asians who need helpful information regarding mental health.

Please take care of yourself, my friends.

RESOURCES (thanks to reclaimthebindi):
  • Self-Care Masterpost
  • Suicide Prevention Lifeline
  • SAMHAA
  • MySahana
  • SAMHAJ
  • CHAI
  • South Asian Network (SAN)
  • Heart Mind International
  • MannMukti​


*Name has been changed to protect subject’s confidentiality.
2 Comments

end of the worst.

12/31/2016

0 Comments

 
RAGINI- This time last year I had pretty high hopes for 2016. Little did I know this year would turn out to be one of the most notoriously awful years in recent history. After Brexit, a Trump presidential nomination, and the passing of several iconic celebrities, I think we're all looking for a break from the constant L's 2016 has been giving us. Before we start setting our expectations for 2017, however, let's step back and look at some of the things that made this year personally more tolerable.
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  • favorite musical artists:
    1. Panic! At The Disco
    2. Childish Gambino
    3. DΞΔN
    4. Anirudh Ravichander
    5. DNCE​
​
  • ​favorite musical albums:
    1. ​​ANTI- Rihanna
    2. EXIT: E- WINNER
    3. Death of a Bachelor- Panic! At The Disco
    4. Mind of Mine- Zayn
    5. Sremmlife 2- Rae Sremmurd​
  • favorite songs​:
  • favorite tv shows:
    1. Brooklyn 99
    2. Jane The Virgin
    3. We Bare Bears
    4. Atlanta
    5. Black Mirror
  • favorite movies:
    1. ​​Deadpool
    2. Zootopia
    3. Captain America: Civil War
    4. Moana
    5. Irudhi Suttru
  • social media used the most​​​​: snapchat
  • favorite phone game: endless lake
  • inspirational icon who rose to fame this year: Nathan Zed
  • major lifestyle change: learned how to drive
  • saddest news: Trump becoming president
  • best news: the ice bucket challenge actually funded an ALS breakthrough
  • saddest moment: leaving UNT
  • best moment: road trip to Austin
  • describe 2016 in one word: yuck
  • describe what you expect/want to achieve in 2017 in one word: ​organization
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  • favorite musical artists:​
    1. Zayn
    2. The Brobecks
    3. Nick Jonas
    4. Badshah
    5. Nicki Minaj​
​
  • favorite musical albums:​​
    1. ​​Starboy- The Weeknd
    2. ANTI- Rihanna
    3. Death of a Bachelor- Panic! At The Disco
    4. Mind of Mine- Zayn
    5. DNCE- DNCE
  • favorite songs​:
  • ​favorite tv shows:
  1. Scream
  2. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend
  3. Jane The Virgin
  4. Scream Queens
  5. Black Mirror
  • ​favorite movies:
  1. ​​Deadpool
  2. Ghostbusters
  3. Zootopia
  4. Kapoor & Sons
  5. Moana
  • social media used the most​​​​: snapchat
  • favorite phone game: 8-ball
  • inspirational icon who rose to fame this year: Demetrius Harmon
  • major lifestyle change: took a gap semester before college
  • saddest news: Trump becoming president
  • best news: giant pandas are no longer endangered
  • saddest moment: first car accident
  • best moment: going to India after 11 years
  • describe 2016 in one word: YIKES
  • describe what you expect/want to achieve in 2017 in one word: ​focus​
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  • favorite musical artists:
    1. Nicki Minaj
    2. Panic! At The Disco
    3. Blink-182
    4. NCT
    5. Rihanna​
​
  • favorite musical albums:
    1. Death of a Bachelor- Panic! At The Disco
    2. "Awaken, My Love!"- Childish Gambino
    3. ANTI- Rihanna
    4. MADE- BIGBANG  
    5. Lemonade- Beyoncé
  • favorite songs​:
  • favorite tv shows: (I didn't really watch anything new, but I caught up on some iconic old shows.)
    1. ​​Parks and Recreation
    2. The Office
    3. Adventure Time 
  • favorite movies:
    1. ​​​​​Moana
    2. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
    3. Zootopia
    4. Finding Dory
    5. Captain America: Civil War 
  • social media used the most​​​​: Tumblr
  • favorite phone game: Neko Atsume
  • inspirational icon who rose to fame this year: Ted Cruz
  • major lifestyle change: going to a new school
  • saddest news: Trump becoming president
  • best news: the story of Dimdim, the penguin who swims 5,000 miles a year every year to visit the man who saved his life
  • saddest moment: leaving TAMS graduation and all of my TAMS friends I'll probably never see again
  • best moment: turning in my physics final
  • describe 2016 in one word: heck
  • describe what you expect/want to achieve in 2017 in one word: ​quiet
Happy new year from all of us at Garamasalas! We hope this year brings you the happiness and success you deserve!
0 Comments

masala music monday pt. 2 // rewind & replay.

5/16/2016

1 Comment

 
PRANEEKA & RAGINI-

Praneeka:


I moved from India to the States at a very young age. My parents had left most of their customs and traditions back home in order to adapt to their new lives in America. The only way for my family to maintain our roots was to watch Tamil movies that we would buy from our city's local Indian market. The songs from the movies we watched helped me learn my mother tongue and sleep soundly when I was scared of the dark, and made me stop crying when I missed my parents. Most of the songs in this playlist are very well-known in Tamil cinema, but they play a special role in my family. 

1. Netru No No from VIP

2. Kannodu Kaanbathellam from Jeans

3. Kokkarakko from Ghilli 

4. Oru Vartha from Ayya

5. Naattu Kattai from Gemini

6. Antha Nilava Than from Mudhal Mariyathai

7. All Thotta Boopathi from Youth

8. Un Perai Sonnale from Dumm Dumm Dumm

9. Enna Solla Pogirai from Kandukondain Kandukondain

10. Raa Raa from Chandramukhi

11. Dhimsu Kattai from Thirumalai

12. Anjali Anjali Anjali from Anjali

13. Andangkaka from Anniyan

14. Thamthakka Theenthakka from Thirumalai

15. Ore Oru Oorukulla from Thavamai Thavamirundhu

16. Break The Rules from Boys

yen dharani from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

Ragini:

​
This playlist is dedicated to my father, the only person I know who loves music more than I do. His adoration of old Bollywood songs has stuck with me for years and, much like the songs on this playlist, I've only grown to appreciate him more and more over time.


1. Mere Ghar Aayi Ek Nanhi Pari from Kabhi Kabhi

2. Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhagi Si from Chalti Ka Naam Gadi

3. Haal Kaisa Hai Janab Ka from Chalti Ka Naam Gadi

4. Babu Samjho Ishare from Chalti Ka Naam Gadi

5. O Saathi Chal from Seeta Aur Geeta

6. Roop Tera Mastana from Aradhana

7. Yeh Chaand Sa Roshan Chehra from Kashmir Ki Kali

8. Humne Tumko Dekha from Khel Khel Mein

9. O Meri Soni Meri Tamanna from Yaadon Ki Baaraat

10. Mere Samne Wali Khidki Mein from Padosan

11. Churaliya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko from Yaadon Ki Baaraat

12. Salam E Ishq from Muqaddar Ka Sikandar

13. Eello Ji Sanam Hum Aa Gaye from Andaaz Apna Apna

14. Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam

15. Ramta Jogi from Taal

meri nanhi pari from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

1 Comment

365/365.

12/31/2015

0 Comments

 
PRANEEKA- Another year has come to an end. As with every other year, there have been many great days and not so great ones. Change. Success. Failure. However, December 31 is always the most hopeful. We use this day to believe that the next 365 days to come will bring forth better outcomes and habits. Although many people fail to truly achieve their resolutions, the fact that we simply have so much faith that everything will get better makes me happy. We acknowledge our flaws and believe that we can overcome them. We attempt to become better humans. With all of the devastating events going on around the world, there are still people out there who want to reach a state of optimism and personal improvement.  They believe. That truly amazes me. So, this year I want to challenge you. Instead of plainly making a resolution, think of something small that you lacked this year and find an actual method that will help you achieve it. Without some work, you won't get any pleasing results. Plus, having a small, attainable goal will actually give you a sense of accomplishment and completion. I did that this year, and it paid off. My goal was to keep a journal and consistently write in it. I put some effort, and it really benefitted me both physically and emotionally. See? Anything small and achievable. It can still go a long way.

Madeline, Ragini, and I did a small questionnaire below to show you a piece of how our year was. This year was pretty gross for all of us, but our friendship kept us going. As you can see with our favorite things, we have influenced each other in many ways. We have accomplished so much, and we're only going to look forward. It's been a ride. We only have one more semester together before we all separate ways to different colleges, but we're going to make the best of it! We will definitely be posting all of our adventures on here, don't worry. Thank you guys for supporting us. This blog has helped us build a stronger friendship. It's helped us find many new friends. Most importantly, it's helped us become better individuals. We hope that we can keep this going for a very long time. 

Here's to your triumphs. Here's to the obstacles you've faced. Here's to the many people you've met along your journey. Keep your head high and keep it going. Happy new year from your GARAMASALAS pals!

  1. favorite musical artists
  2. favorite songs
  3. favorite musical albums
  4. favorite tv shows
  5. favorite movies
  6. social media used the most
  7. favorite phone game
  8. inspirational icon who rose to fame this year
  9. major lifestyle change
  10. saddest news
  11. best news
  12. saddest moment
  13. best moment
  14. describe 2015 in one word
  15. describe what you expect/want to achieve in 2016 in one word
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1.
  • twenty one pilots
  • Nicki Minaj
  • Panic! At The Disco
  • Drake
  • Ke$ha
2.
  • Stressed Out- twenty one pilots
  • Hotline Bling- Drake
  • Fairly Local- twenty one pilots
  • BANG BANG BANG- BIGBANG
  • Centuries- Fall Out Boy
3.
  • 25- Adele
  • Blurryface- twenty one pilots
  • If You're Reading This It's Too Late- Drake
  • Purpose- Justin Bieber
  • American Beauty/American Psycho- Fall Out Boy
4.
  • Parks and Recreation
  • Brooklyn Nine-Nine
  • Master of None
  • Bob's Burgers
  • Sense8
5.
  • Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip
  • Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip
  • Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip
  • Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip
  • Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip
6. Tumblr
7. Solitaire
8. Left Shark
9. Developing insomnia
10. Donald Trump running for President
11. Supreme Court declaring same-sex marriage legal
12. Tried going to Maple cafeteria one time and it was closed
13. Finishing my finals for this semester
14. dank

15. moredank
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1.
  • Panic! At The Disco
  • Epik High
  • BIGBANG
  • twenty one pilots
  • Aquilo
2.
  • Death of a Bachelor- Panic! At The Disco
  • Same Old Love- Selena Gomez
  • I NEED U- BTS
  • Wrong- Max Schneider
  • BANG BANG BANG- BIGBANG
3.
  • ​Blurryface- twenty one pilots
  • Purpose- Justin Bieber
  • Deadroses- Blackbear
  • EXODUS- EXO
  • Beauty Behind the Madness- The Weeknd
4.
  • Master of None
  • Sense8
  • Jane The Virgin
  • Parks and Recreation
  • Brooklyn Nine-Nine
5.
  • Avengers: Age of Ultron
  • Jurassic World
  • Enakkul Oruvan
  • Ant-Man
  • Indru Netru Naalai
6. Instagram
7. Spider Solitaire
8. Matt McGorry
9. Getting braces (u g h)
​10. Donald Trump running for President
11. twenty one pilots performing at a venue in my city
12. Getting anxiety attacks
13. Watching the second Avengers movie with my best friends on my birthday
14. ew
​15. redemption
Picture
 1.
  • Nicki Minaj
  • Justin Bieber
  • Lin-Manuel Miranda
  • Panic! At The Disco
  • Fall Out Boy
2.
  • Sorry- Justin Bieber
  • Hello- Adele
  • Don't Threaten Me With a Good Time- Panic! At The Disco
  • Hotline Bling- Drake
  • Meltdown- N.A.S.A feat. DMX and Priyanka Chopra
3.
  • Hamilton OST
  • Purpose- Justin Bieber
  • Blurryface- twenty one pilots
  • American Beauty/American Psycho- Fall Out Boy
  • In The Card- Robert DeLong
4.
  • Brooklyn Nine-Nine
  • It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia
  • Jane The Virgin
  • Quantico
  • Fresh Off The Boat
5.
  • Bajrangi Bhaijaan
  • Dil Dhanake Do
  • Ant-Man
  • Jurassic World
  • Inside Out
6. Snapchat
7. Neko Atsume
8. Nicki Minaj
9. Following DJ Khaled's keys to more success (🔑🔑)
​10. Donald Trump running for President
​11. Bernie Sanders running for President

12. Zayn leaving One Direction
13. Hitting 1000 notes on Tumblr portraits
14. yikes
​15. change
0 Comments

unfair & lovely.

12/11/2015

4 Comments

 
PRANEEKA- 

"Hey, look at that girl. Isn't she pretty?"
"Oh yeah, but too bad she's dark."

These are words that two boys whispered about me when I passed by them. Too bad she's dark. Wow. What started out as an uplifting comment crashed down in an instant because I possessed what they believed to be an unappealing skin tone. Imagine being constantly belittled because of a characteristic you cannot change. I am a victim of a type of discrimination that many people are not aware of. I am a victim of a sort of prejudice that the media advocates by barraging our society with notions of what it believes is desirable and undesirable. I am a victim of what is known as colorism.

Colorism is the practice of discrimination based on skin color. It provides disadvantages to dark-skinned individuals and advantages to light-skinned ones. Recently, this form of oppression has been getting more and more prevalent in economic, social, and cultural institutions. Dark-skinned people are commonly viewed as less capable and beautiful. In South Asia specifically, lighter-skinned men and women are more favorable in many aspects. 

The discrimination began due to the implementation of the Caste system and Aryan traditions practiced by the British during its imperialism in India. Now, colorism is regularly seen in Indian pop culture, such as Bollywood films; the relation between dark skin color and ugliness or evil are evident in many South Asian movies and cultural commodities. Advertisers regard it as an effective marketing strategy for selling skin bleaching creams. Men take it into account when choosing their brides for arranged marriages. It is even seen in Indian school textbooks and other sources of curriculum. It is time for this persecution to come to an end.

​Because of our peers, magazines, billboards, and advertisements, we are ingrained with the notion that having light skin would be an ideal advantage in every situation. But why are fairer desis praised for their appearance when darker desis who bear the same features are considered ugly? In a social experiment I came across, five men were shown two pictures: one of a light-skinned Indian woman with a rather plain appearance and one of a dark-skinned woman with a stunning visage. They had to choose which one they considered more beautiful. ALL five men selected the light-skinned woman. This absolutely disgusts me. This bigotry has been cycled down for so many generations, and I am amazed that it is not tiring for us to idolize the same type of people.

An opposer of colorism in another blog beautifully asks, "You all claim to be so progressive, to consider every skin tone beautiful. But where is that mindset when you benefit so much from being fair while your darker sisters get torn apart every day?" You see, our worth is degraded. We are at a social, or even an economical, disadvantage. Society will give us a certain level of privilege based on skin tone, which is, once again, an inalterable trait! If you believe that a dark person cannot be successful, go educate yourself right now. Look up Mindy Kaling. Aziz Ansari. Suraj Sharma. Archana Kumar. All of these notable people have stated in interviews that they hard to work twice as hard as their light-skinned competitors to earn their positions as actors, singers, and other careers they pursue in. But they do not regret having dark skin; it helped them move forward with more confidence and determination in achieving their aspirations. So for my fellow chocolate-skinned friends out there, don't take Priyanka Chopra's or Shah Rukh Khan's tempting advice on using fairness creams and skin bleaching products. Don't fall into the hands of societal pressure. Most importantly, don't apologize for your skin tone. God would not have created different skin tones without a reason at hand. Think of your gift of melanin as a blessing, because it truly is. 
4 Comments

thumka thursday // desi party playlist.

12/5/2015

1 Comment

 
This began as a post-finals playlist but it's actually perfect for any gathering, car ride, or solo dance party. Whether you're celebrating or looking for a way to ease your worries, do it the Indian way: by blasting some mast or kuthu songs and dancing your heart out. Remember, abhi to party shuru hui hai (the party's just begun); it's kondatta neram (time to party)!
RAGINI // hindi -
​
​
1. Rum & Whiskey (Vicky Donor)

2. Dhan Te Nan (Kaminey)

3. Bol Beliya (Kill Dil)

4. Punjabiyaan Di Battery (Mere Dad Ki Maruti)

5. Pappu Can't Dance (Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na)

6. Gallan Goodiyaan (Dil Dhadakne Do)

7. G Phaad Ke (Happy Ending) 

8. Desi Girl (Dostana)

9. Ainvayi Ainvayi (Band Baaja Baaraat)

10. Kajra Re (Bunty Aur Babli)

11. Hip Hip Hurrah (Mere Dad Ki Maruti)

12. Aaja Nachle (Aaja Nachle)

13. Dhoom Again (Dhoom 2)

BONUS: Meltdown by N.A.S.A feat. DMX & Priyanka Chopra

abhi to party shuru hui hai from raginikhanduri on 8tracks Radio.

PRANEEKA // tamil -

1. Local Boys (Ethir Neechal)

2. Mambazham Mambazham (Pokkiri)

3. Dandanakka (Romeo Juliet)

4. Thappa Dhaan Theriyum (Maari)

5. Pakkam Vanthu (Kaththi)

6. Appadi Podu (Ghilli)

7. Saroja Saman Nikalo (Chennai 600028)

8. Break The Rules (Boys)

9. Pandi Nattu Kodi (Jigarthanda)

10. Thaamthaka Theemthaka (Thirumalai)

11. Madras to Madurai (Aambala)

12. Andangkaka (Anniyan)

13. Hey Rama Rama Rama (Villu)

14. All Thotta Boopathi (Youth)

15. Muthada Chammak Challo (Ra One - Tamil)

16. Why This Kolaveri Di (3)

Kondatta Neram from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

1 Comment

ethnic fe(a)stivities // spice up your holiday dinner!

11/29/2015

2 Comments

 
Picture
PC: Dylan Haria
PRANEEKA- And so the celebrations begin! The period between thanksgiving and new year's eve is my absolute favorite time of the year due to a number of reasons: the time I get to share with my family, the cold weather, the multicultural holidays, and most importantly, the food. Ever since I was young, my family enjoyed adding an Indian flair to typical American dishes. I grew to appreciate our quirky tradition since it serves as a remembrance of my roots and they should stay imperative even when we are assimilating into the American culture. Because of my experiences, I wanted to do the same for you guys! Do you want to put something better than those ordinary dinner rolls on the table? Do you wish to surprise your guests with a flavorful meal that they will never forget? If you are the least bit interested, look no further! Here below are some recipes of dishes the Garamasalas staff believed would be great alternatives to traditional holiday meal foods. I hope every one of you has a warm and happy thanksgiving, and wonderful rest of the holiday season!

recipes.

Picture
roast turkey → tandoori whole chicken.
(this recipe is provided by ZamZam.)

ingredients:
  • ​1 whole chicken​
  • 15 garlic cloves
  • 4 inch piece of ginger
  • 3/4 cup lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup plain low fat yogurt
  • 1 tbsp each of the following: garam masala, coriander, cumin, fennel seeds, dried fenugreek leaves
  • 3/4 tsp red chilli powder
  • 1/8 tsp tandoori/red food coloring
  • salt to taste

instructions:
  • place chicken in large mixing bowl. make a few gashes in it for the marinade to seep in.
  • combine the rest of the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
  • pour and coat marinade over the chicken. cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
  • when ready to roast, preheat the oven to 425° F. lift chicken out of marinade and place it on a parchment lined baking tray. spread any leftover marinade on top. cover the chicken with foil and cook it about 1 hour.
  • take the cover off of the chicken and let the it cook uncovered for about 25-30 more minutes so it is thoroughly cooked.
  • (optional): serve with onion rings and lemon wedges.

Picture
dinner rolls/croissants → naan.

naan is difficult to make on your own if you do not have past experience. however, it can be found in many supermarkets, such as whole foods. ​

Picture
​casserole → bhindi masala.
(this recipe is provided by sanjeev kapoor.)

ingredients:
  • 500 g ladyfingers (bhindi)
  • 4 tbsp oil
  • 1/2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 sliced large onions
  • 3-4 slit green chilis
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 2 tsp dry mango powder (amchur)
  • salt to taste

instructions:
  • slit the bhindi horizontally without cutting them into two.
  • heat oil in a pan and add cumin seeds. then, add and sauté onions until they turn golden brown. add the green chilis and stir for a minute.
  • add the bhindi and red chili, coriander, and turmeric powders. mix well and cook covered over low heat.
  • add salt and amchur. when bhindi is almost cooked, increase the heat and cook for two minutes.
​
Picture
mashed potatoes → aloo mattar.
(this recipe is provided by niru gupta.)

ingredients:
  • 2 cups potatoes, boiled and cubed
  • 2 cups green peas
  • 3-4 slit green chilis
  • 250 g onion paste (ground onions with garlic and ginger)
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp peeled garlic cloves
  • 1/4 cup tomato puree
  • 1/4 cup oil
  • 2 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1/2 garam masala
  • 1/2 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tbsp coriander powder
  • 1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves

instructions:
  • heat oil and add cumin and bay leaves.
  • when the seeds begin to splutter, add the onion paste and stir until the fat separates.
  • add the tomato puree, turmeric, salt, garam masala, chili powder, and coriander powder and stir-fry.
  • add the peas, potatoes, and green chilis and sauté until the mixture looks glossy.
  • add two cups of water and bring the potatoes to a boil and simmer for about 10 minutes.
  • serve with the coriander leaves as a garnish.

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cranberry sauce → raita.
(this recipe is provided by Epicurious.)

ingredients:
  • 1 medium-sized cucumber
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 2 cups plain whole fat yogurt
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tbsp chopped coriander or mint leaves
  • paprika for garnish

instructions:
  • peel the cucumber and cut into thin slices.
  • toast cumin seeds in a pan. 
  • stir yogurt until smooth in a bowl.
  • mix in toasted cumin seeds, cucumber, garlic, and coriander/mint leaves with the yogurt.
  • sprinkle paprika over the mixture. chill before serving.

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pumpkin pie/any other dessert dish → kheer.
(this recipe is provided by allrecipes.)

ingredients:
  • 2 cups coconut milk
  • 2 cups milk
  • 3 tbsps sugar
  • 1/2 cup basmati rice
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon rose water
  • 1/4 cup chopped toasted almonds
  • 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
​
instructions:
  • bring the coconut milk, milk, and sugar to a boil in a large pan. then, add basmati rice and simmer over low heat until the mixture thickens and the rice thickens, which will be for about 20 minutes.
  • stir in the raisins, cardamom, rose water, and cook for slightly longer. ladle into serving bowls and garnish with the chopped almonds and pistachios.
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sari not sari // north vs. south indian clothing pt. 2

10/28/2015

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PC: Vaibhav Bommareddy
RAGINI, PRANEEKA, & ARTHI- Finally! After so long, we finally had the time to do part 2 of our indian clothing series! (Pssst, if you haven't checked out part 1, no worries. Just click here!)

Let's start with Arthi's clothing first. Arthi is wearing the orange-accented turquoise dress known as a langa voni, daavani, or half sari. The langa voni is worn by teenage girls between puberty and marriage. It consists of a skirt worn during childhood called a paavadai, and a sari blouse and drape, which is worn during womanhood. As you can see, the half sari symbolizes the transition into adulthood.

Meanwhile, Praneeka is wearing a deep violet, silk dress known as a sari. There are three parts of a sari: a petticoat, blouse, and a six to nine feet-long drape. The blouse is usually short-sleeved and cropped just above the stomach (like a tight crop top). The drape is tucked into the petticoat and worn over the blouse. Each region in India has its own types of saris based on its climate and fabric weaving styles; for instance, Praneeka is wearing a Kanchipuram sari, which is primarily worn in the region of Tamil Nadu. The distinct patterns and designs on the garment represent different virtues and the region the person came from. The sari is a prominent symbol of India and its vibrant culture.

Both Arthi and Praneeka are wearing sets of bangles, called gajulu in Telugu and valaiyal in Tamil, and traditional bindis called pottus. 

We've been getting a lot of positive feedback on this photo series. Thank you so much. We really hope you're looking forward to our futures posts!
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masala music monday. // a playlist for all your indian needs.

10/12/2015

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PRANEEKA & RAGINI- 

​Rag:

If there's anything I've learned from years of watching Bollywood movies it's that desis love love. This playlist will take you through some of my favourite Hindi love songs from the 1960s until now. 
Edit: one of these isn't even a love song but it's one of the most iconic and beautiful songs in Bollywood history so I'm leaving it on there. Enjoy! 

1. O Haseena Zulfonwali (1966)

2. Ye Shaam Mastani (1970)

3. Aanewala Pal (1979)

4. Aye Mere Humsafar (1988)

5. Tujhe Dekha To Ye Jaana Sanam (1995)

6. Suraj Hua Madham (2001)

7. Aao Naa (2004)

8. Dekho Naa (2006)

9. Ajab Si (2007)

10. Jaane Kyun (2008)

11. Khuda Jaane (2008)

12. Tum Hi Ho (2013)


Pran:

I don't know much of the new stuff that's been released lately in the Tamil movie and music industries, but I do know that the older stuff is still fantastic and never tiring to listen to. All the songs I've included in this post are ones I have religiously listened to since childhood. This playlist's called Kaayam Aanal Madhippulla, which is fancy for saying "hurt but worth". It starts out with really sad songs, but it eventually ends with happy, cheerful ones. One of the main morals in Tamil movies is this: love can be a painful and heartbreaking experience, but it is all worthwhile in the end. So why not have a playlist that condenses almost every Tamil movie in an hour worth of music?

1. Un Perai Sollumpothe from Angadi Theru

2. Aaruyire Aaruyire from Madrasapattinam

3. Ava Enna from Vaaranam Aayiram

4. Kannazhaga from 3

5. New York Nagaram from Sillendru Oru Kadhal

6. Aaromale from Vinnaithaandi Varuvaya

7. Yaar from Enakkul Oruvan

8. Vinnathandi Varuvaya from Vinnathandi Varuvaya

9. Pookal Pookum from Madrasapattinam

10. Poo Avizhum Pozhudhil from Enakkul Oruvan

11. Idayam Oru Koyil from Idaya Koyil

12. Kadhalil Deepam Ondru from Thambikku Entha Ooru

13. Ale Ale from Boys

14. Azhaipaya Azhaipaya from Kadhalil Sodhapuvadhu Yeppadi

15. Munbe Vaa from Sillendru Oru Kaadhal

16. Thuli Thuli from Paiya

17. Azhagooril from Thirumalai

18. Dhavani Potta Deepavali from Sandakozhi

19. Adada Mazhaida from Paiya


20. Mundhinam from Vaaranam Aayiram


pyaar · ishq · mohabbat from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

Kaayam Aanal Madhippulla from praneekam on 8tracks Radio.

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her eyes say it all. [a look into a woman's life]

10/10/2015

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her eyes say it all.


she shrouds herself

with a mere blanket of disguise,

concealing her true self

while no one knows her real identity.

she shows the world a beautiful smile


but her eyes say it all.
​while darkness engulfs the sky

she huddles in a corner of a room.

the only light to be shown

is the faint glow of the pale moon.


she takes a shaky breath

wrapping her arms around herself.

her eyes water,

tears threatening to fall.

her hands tremble 

and her arms crawl with goosebumps 

as she shrugs off the blanket she had worn for too long, 

the one that transformed her into a whole new being.


she lets out her fears, shames, mistakes, 

and dreams she deems as impossible engulf her.

she feels as if love is never by her side,

as if no one will support her.

her anxiety, apprehension, and afflictions surround and encase her 

like a wall.

it diminishes her liveliness

slowly rotting and falling away

as she cries herself to sleep.
​as the sun climbs through the clouds of the sky,

she slowly pulls her blanket of disguise over her head once more

and leads yet another day with a fake identity.

her happiness.

her joyfulness.

her courage.

her smile.

all fabricated in her daily life

like a woven cloth,

where the hidden stitches mark her true story.


but her eyes say it all. 


—p.m.r.
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