For centuries, India has fascinated the world. Explorers headed to the subcontinent to bring back Indian spices and silks. Today, the Indian Diaspora is bringing South Asian culture around the globe.

This intersectionality between the American and Indian cultures is how I live life.

When my husband, John, and I met, his first words to me were,
“Is that an Indian necklace?” I was very surprised at his question and inquired how he would know that. John shared that as a teenager, he had lived in Kabul, Afghanistan, and traveled around India and had seen similar gold jewelry.

Conversations like the one John and I had are common in my life. People constantly ask about my outfits, jewelry, saris, Indian ensembles, pashmina shawls, home décor and other Indian-themed items. More than ever, with our world today connected through technology and transport, diverse societies are coming together. 

Individuals integrate diverse aspects of cultures: uniting in interracial relationships, celebrating with blended weddings, creating fusion cuisines, music, dance, clothing, embracing spiritual practices, yoga and the growing acceptance of ayurveda and spices for healthy living.

India’s ancient wisdom is flourishing in the West.

I am an American with Indian heritage, celebrating the richness of both cultures.