South Asian Holidays – Chai Cafe Magazine

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Psych Central describes triggers as: “A trigger is something that sets off a memory tape or flashback transporting the person back to the event of her/his original trauma.” Wikipedia defines a trauma trigger as: “A trauma trigger is an experience that causes someone to recall a previous traumatic memory, although the trigger itself need not […]
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Share your story
Share your story of reconciling your bi-cultural heritage and seeking authenticity, anonymously. Email it to priamba6@gmail.com. You may find that sharing is cathartic and healing. You may also find support and connection. I will make certain that there is nothing to identify you (unless you state otherwise).
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Summer Vacation to India?
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Being “ABCD” and Authenticity
When we are “American Born Confused Desis” or even become “American Born Confident Desis,” how do we reconcile past cultural expectations of us with our quest to be our own empowered authentic women? Do expectations of our upbringing fit with our quest to be true to ourselves or do we have to make adjustments? If so, what are they?
Individualism
One of the key differences I’ve observed and experienced as differences between the culture of my heritage and that which I’ve grown up in is the level of focus on individualism. Much in the Western and particularly American culture is based on the value and importance of the individual.

The festival of Holi is approaching

Holiday Rituals, South Asian culture, South Asian Holidays 2 Responses »

Feb 282011

The Hindu festival of Holi is probably considered the most fun holiday by kids and even adults in India. The actual day of celebration this year is March 19. The colorful, festive occasion celebrates the triumph of good over bad and the virtue of honesty is highlighted.

Holi occurs during a colorful time of the year when Spring is in bloom and a good harvest is expected. Color seems to be everywhere as different-colored powders are smeared on anyone by anyone. Even the animals are not spared as they take on different colors for the day in celebration.

Playfulness is brought out as all ages chase one another with color in powder or liquid form. It is made clear that if anyone tries to avoid getting color on themselves or their clothes by hiding, they will get even more color on them. Most give in to this reality and start the day wearing old white clothes that they expect to turn numerous colors by the end of the day.

In the evening, gifts and sweets are exchanged among friends and relatives.

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Pria Ingrum is of South Asian descent and blogs about her heritage and culture. She also owns a South Asian boutique. She welcomes any comments, suggestions, ideas, South Asian recipes and South Asian event news at priamba6@gmail.com.

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Source: Holi Organization, My South Asian Column