Growing up I took an interest in many cultures aside from my own. Mexico, Egypt, Native American tribes, Japan and much more but strangely, never India. The closest I had ever come to the Indian culture were my 2 Indian math/science teachers in high school and even then, I was not interested. It was in Hilo, Hawaii for the Merrie Monarch Festival that I was shown the Bollywood movie "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" by my Aunty and cousin. It was very similar to the musicals I grew up watching so I immediately took a liking. The movie was funny, cheeky, emotional and filled with music. I cried like a baby at the end. Since then, I wanted more. I wanted to know everything about Bollywood and India. So I went out there and searched for everything I could find, bought books, tried the food, rented the movies, googled for pictures, I even went to "Bollywood Nights" to try and make friends.
Through my efforts, I have learned so much and it is something that I treasure. I went to a few more Bollywood nights, a Diwali festival and even a Krishna Temple. I found my favorite Indian food dishes, ordered my own sari, salwar kameez & lehenga choli from India. I started a substancial collection of Bollywood movies and I've made some good friends as well. One of those friends is getting married in October! My first Indian wedding that I am invited to...and I won't be able to make it. I am still recovering from this.
I am fortunate that my youngest sister shares the same love and enthusiasm as I do. She has been by my side the entire time, sharing the experiences and memories with me. I miss that.
My sister & I at Diwali |
I hope to one day visit this beautiful country and experience it first hand for myself. In fact, before even considering moving to Arizona, I was planning a trip to India. It didn't quite work out the way I planned but that has not deterred me. I will make it there one day.
So, don't be surprised with all the Indian/Bollywood love I show here. There will be lots of it and hopefully there are other's out there who share the same love and zest for India as I do.
Namaste!
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