Stamped within the melanin that flows within our skin
Are age-old stories on survival, resilience, adaptability & community.
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The Sunday cha that brews with its bite of spice
Unlocks a history that surpasses a lifetime
A history passed down from Dadi & Nani to Mum then Me
The ancient blending of spices our very own mystery
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It’s a ritualistic dance of secrets unlocking our roots
Providing that comforting hug today
Its spiral a grounding reminder of the many routes taken to here
Years of history paving the opportunities of now.
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Nutmeg-cloves-cardamom burst with joy
They crisscross and swirl
Mirroring the myriad of ebony lifelines
Sitting proud on our palms
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Our identity
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The aromatic smoke rises
A whisper of a voice reaches out
From time past;
My 2 grandmas
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They say:
“Pinch some masala
Brew that cha
Don’t forget your cinnamon
Brown as the earth,
As you ground yourself
to hush your cry.”
By: @RadsWrites – Radhika Manek
The exhibition ‘Unsung Heroes of World War I’ featured historical artifacts, photos and news clippings on the Asian (Indian, Nepalese Bangladeshi – the Indian subcontinent, along with Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesian soldiers in WW1, as well as other moments in South Asian history.
As the saying goes, “Like mother, like daughter.” In the case of creative talents, this couldn’t be more true. The influence of a mother’s creativity can leave a lasting impact on her children, shaping their own artistic endeavours and passions. In this journal I explore the profound impact my mother’s creative legacy has influenced me and how Sohavi was truly born. Roots to routes explores my late mothers life journey from birth in Kenya to India as a teenager and eventually returning to Kenya in her 20’s , to marry my father Sardar Tirlochan Singh Dhamu, to emigrate to London from Nairobi in October 1973 and live out the rest of her life. Despite experiencing loss and trauma, she endured difficulties n her younger years and made the best of her life in my fathers trusting hand, he led her to a new life in London.
As an update from my last article, I can say that the past year has been both adventurous and fulfilling. I’ve faced a mix of opportunities
South Asian Heritage Month dates changed to "July" from 2026 — Learn more here →
