Culture
South Asian Representation
South Asian Representation in the media has been increasing
sporadically, due to authors, film makers, and directors wanting to
increase diversity. While some of South Asian culture is represented in
a disrespectful and negative way, others represent it beautifully.
Today I’m here to discuss my two favorite South Asian representations in
the media, and what makes the representation really stand out.
Evania Bhattarai | January 15, 2022
When Dimple Met Rishi
By Sandhya Menon
When Dimple Met Rishi is a South Asian Romance novel written by Sandhya
Menon. In this book Sandhya beautifully creates a modern day love story,
while still bringing awareness to some traditional marriage culture…
arranged marriage. Even more so, Sandhya includes little cultural
details that bring the book to life, like replacing chocolate chip
cookies with Parle G. The little details in this novel make it so great,
since young South Asian girls and boys can picture some of the scenes
happening in their head, because the cultural traditions happen in their
home everyday. Ex: Having chai with guests.
Overall, I love the representation in this book, and I can’t wait to
read her other romance novels!
New Girl
New Girl is a comedic TV Show with one of their main characters being
Cece Parkih. I deeply resonate with Cece’s character, because for once
my race was represented as desirable and hot. Her character wasn’t
another token friend, or nerdy character, but she was someone with her
own storyline. Watching her onscreen brought back the same rush I felt
when I watched Aladdin for the first time and saw Jasmine. Not to
mention, the jokes involving her in the show never disrespected South
Asian culture and were always hilarious. I absolutely LOVE the
representation in this show, and would definitely recommend other teen
South Asians girls to watch it as well.
In short, South Asian representation is not always depicted in a good
light, but I strongly believe that these two media pieces do an accurate
and beautiful job in doing so. Which can help build the confidence of
other South Asian girls!