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Yale Was Built on Stolen Riches from India. Why Don’t We Talk About It More?

Elihu Yale became the reluctant namesake of the prestigious university by exploiting Indian diamonds, textiles, and even mango chutney.

The Mangalsutra, a Mark of Marital Bliss?

How a necklace that emerged around a century ago became a big business and the epitome of marital sanctity — and how its meaning is now changing.

‘Life of Pi’ Roars on Broadway (Review)

The stage adaptation of Yann Martel’s 2001 novel has impeccable acting and magical puppetry, but will leave some craving more.

The Death of Paan

How the tricornered treat, once a cornerstone of South Asian life and art, has slipped to the periphery.

‘Who is Amritpal Singh?’ is the Wrong Question

This is not a story about the separatist leader, whom few support, but about the decades-long oppression of the people of Punjab.

How Bollywood Failed Parveen Babi

One of the highest-paid actors of her time is largely remembered through her lovers and by her illness. While others profited from her tale, she died alone at 51.

Dior and India: Couture Diplomacy or Culture Vulturism?

Dior’s Fall 2023 show in Mumbai seems like a win, but raises questions about the brand’s decades-long, extractive relationship with Indian artisans.

How Cha Became Chai

British trade manipulation, espionage, and aggressive marketing changed the trajectory of the once-unpopular beverage in the Indian subcontinent.

Raquel Evita Saraswati, the Race-Baiting, Hijabi Hoaxer

How a “white as snow” activist spread Islamophobia while pretending to be South Asian, Muslim, Hispanic, and Arab.

Humza Yousaf, the Next Leader of Scotland, Makes History

The first Muslim, Pakistani-origin, and youngest Scottish first minister assumed his new role today. Less is known about whether he can deliver on his promises.

How Amrita Sher-Gil Found Home, One Painting at a Time

The queer, Indian Hungarian painter revolutionized art by blending the East and the West, championing the female gaze, and celebrating herself.

Kali, the Avenging Goddess Within Every Woman

The Hindu god known for her fury and vengeance is a man’s worst nightmare — a testament to female power in all its forms.

Why India is Half an Hour Off Global Time Zones

Colonial control, nation-building, and political rivalry dictated elements of subcontinental life — including time itself.

Catherine Duleep Singh, the Queer, Sikh, Nazi-Defiant Princess

The lesser-known story of a Punjabi heiress who fought for women’s rights and was an extraordinary Jewish ally.

How Kailasa, a Fake Hindu Nation, Conned Millions

Indian cult leader Nithyananda’s brainchild has scammed U.S. cities, several countries, and even the United Nations. But what of his countless abuse victims, who still await justice?

Zeenat Aman Was Never Just a Glamour Girl

The Bollywood actor, with her radical honesty and insight, is the zenith of celebrity Instagram. Those who are surprised are simply late to the party.

“Naatu Naatu” at the Oscars: A Cultural Triumph Gone Wrong

South Asians asked why there were no Indian lead dancers on stage. The Academy and the dance troupe responded with excuses.

The Kaurs of 1984: The Unsung Heroes of India’s Anti-Sikh Genocide

When the government and police watched Delhi burn, Sikh women stepped in and saved hundreds of lives.

Oscars 2023: All the South Asian Moments

This was a historic year with several wins, iconic presenters, and a musical performance many can’t forget.

‘The Namesake’: What’s in a Name? Everything.

The Mira Nair film based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s novel, a rare love letter to Bengali Americans, explores how our most important parts are parts we didn’t choose.