Diwali Mubarak! Happy Diwali! Though this post is a bit belated, “crackers” (fireworks) still continue occasionally during the days, making me think that this post is not so late after all. Diwali is a celebration of light (not unlike other autumn/winter holidays), a homecoming for Lakshmi, and a week (or two) of fireworks. Diwali is […]
Guest is God
As my time in India is nearing the end, I’ve been reflecting on what I want to bring back with me (besides colorful scarves and small trinkets). What lessons have I learned? What stories do I share? What customs do I continue to practice? How do I respectfully and openly share this culture with my […]
Ashes Sprinkling From the Sky
Ashes were sprinkling from the sky and the smoke in the air was billowing around me. I covered my face with my scarf and squinted at the small frail man that was speaking without pausing for a breath. I quickly shuffled my feet to let yet another bamboo stretcher with a dead body covered in […]
Postcard to my August 2015 Self from Banaras
Hey you. It’s been awhile. I know you’re feeling like you might have made a huge mistake. It’s okay – studying abroad on the other side of the world for a semester is a big deal. It’s okay though. I know so many anxieties are running through your mind – what if you don’t bond […]
Blending in by Standing Out: Chennai’s Colors
There is so much to be learned from the world that surrounds us; during my time in India I have constantly been learning new things about this new world, but also about myself. I find myself constantly inspired by all that surrounds me, and lately, I have been really inspired by the colors of Chennai. […]