Remember the last time you tried to explain a desi cultural nuance to your non-desi friends and they stared at you like you’d grown a second head? If you’re nodding, you’re in the right place.
Staying connected to our roots, cultural values, and beliefs isn’t just important; it’s essential. It’s the secret ingredient that makes our lives flavourful, like a perfectly spiced plate of gol gappe.
1. The Flavour of Tradition
Imagine life without the excitement of festivals, the warmth of family gatherings, or the endless array of delicious homemade food. Bland, right? Our cultural values and traditions bring that much-needed spice to our lives. When I think about Diwali, I remember the time my cousin and I decided to make sweets from scratch. It ended with a kitchen that looked like a powdered sugar explosion. But the laughter and bonding were priceless.
2. The Comfort of Familiarity
In today’s fast-paced world, where everything seems to be changing at the speed of light, our cultural roots provide a comforting constant. They remind us of where we come from and keep us grounded. I remember so many people relocating to New Delhi for work, feeling lost amidst the hustle and bustle.
They seek a touch of familiarity to get a sense of belonging. For instance, a room-mate from the same city or the same that has the lingering taste of home. All these things can feel like a warm hug from home, instantly making the unfamiliar city feel a bit more like home.
3. Wisdom Passed Down
Staying connected to our cultural values means we get to tap into the wisdom of our ancestors. Think of it as life hacks passed down through generations. My dadi always had a saying for every situation. “Don’t forget your roots, or you’ll become like a tree without fruit,” she would say. At the time, I rolled my eyes, but now I see the truth in her words. Our cultural teachings often offer the best advice, whether it’s about respect, resilience, or relationships.
4. The Joy of Shared Beliefs
There’s something magical about sharing the same cultural beliefs with others. It’s an instant connection, a mutual understanding that goes beyond words. I met a fellow desi at a work conference, and within minutes, we were bonding over our love for Bollywood movies and disdain for the eternal question, “But where are you really from?” Those shared beliefs and experiences created a friendship that’s lasted years. Also, there is a reason why female friendships are essential for our mental well-being.
5. Embracing Our Identity
In a world that often encourages conformity, holding onto our cultural identity is a powerful act of self-love. It’s about embracing who we are, quirks and all. So, next time you hesitate to bring a box of homemade ladoos to the office, just do it. Share your culture with pride and watch as it becomes the highlight of the day.
In essence, staying connected to our roots, cultural values, and beliefs is like keeping the secret recipe for that perfect gol gappe. It adds flavor, comfort, wisdom, and joy to our lives. So, keep those traditions alive, share your stories, and never forget where you come from. After all, it’s the spice that makes life truly delicious.
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