Modern Indian Americans are More Diverse Than You Think: A recent analysis of the U.S. Census Bureau’s data of the 2012 American Community Survey mapped a numerical canvas putting into perspective how the Indian population fares in different categories across the 50 states. So just what was the takeaway? Hit the books in Massachusetts, find a rishta in New Jersey, purchase a ghar in California and avoid New York at all costs! (Little India)
Top 50 Coolest Desis of 2013. 2014 may be in full swing but we can’t fully say our goodbyes to 2013 without acknowledging some revolutionary and successful Desi do-gooders in the country. Whether it’s in medicine, entertainment, finance or sports, the names selected have broken barriers proving that in the Land of Opportunity dreams are meant to be achieved. Can you guess who made the list? (Desi Club)
Air India’s Airhostesses to Adopt New Uniforms. The next time you travel to India you might notice the flight attendants dawning new attire, including kurtis, churidars and trousers. “The red-white-black colored sari has for years been the official uniform for air hostesses in AI. We have decided to retain the sari, which is widely regarded as a symbol of Indian culture. But to offer a more contemporary look we plan to give our cabin crew a choice of uniform on both domestic and international sector.” (Hindustan Times)
LGBTQ Indians Unable To Find Solace in Section 377 Ruling. The recent Section 377 ruling puts a stigma on one girl’s inner conflicting feelings to not only reveal to her parents that she’s bisexual, but her deepest desire for the Indian community.“I dream of the day when Shaadi.com offers same-sex partner-seeking options and where people don’t have to jump through so many rings of fire — societal, political, legal — to just be themselves.” (FirstPost)
The State of Poetry in India. Sanjay Dutt’s character, Aman/Sagar, in Saajan would be heartbroken if he knew that the lack of visibility in bookstores were to blame for poetry clutching for its dear life in his hometown. Though the genre might be floundering, many poets are turning to writing in English as they’re urged to “re-orient” themselves and utilize the internet to harbor an audience.” (The Hindu)
Ashley Kooblall is a NYC-based online writer/editor whose work has been featured in YourTango, Women’s Health, and DISFunkshion Magazine. In her spare time she can be found in the nearest Barnes & Noble scoping out the latest books, preferably South Asian historical fiction. Follow her on Twitter @akooblall.
