This Week In Culture: The Loka Chai Maker, A 90s-Drenched Love Song, & Much More

Is it just me or are we everywhere right now? From Diljit’s appearance on Jimmy Fallon to Glastonbury hosting its first dedicated South Asian Space and artists like Kiss Nuka debuting at the festival, I'm afraid South Asians are taking jobs faster than white people can fathom. 

As someone who's never left the country, the idea of moving abroad to study overwhelmed me. But lately, it feels like no matter where I go, I'll find one of my people and that makes it sound less daunting. It's definitely a moment of pride every time a homegrown artist occupies a space historically meant for our caucasian contemporaries. But when you look at the big picture it's no surprise. We all still remember being colonized right? They took our spices, our musical heritage, our embroidery and print patterns; our whole culture basically.  Clearly, the West has been obsessed with us for a while 💅🏻.

And why wouldn't they be? South Asians have been killing it across the creative economy across film, music, fashion, literature, culinary art, and technology. We have pioneers all over the creative spectrum and new ones bloom constantly. Where to find them? We got you. The Homegrown Culture Bulletin has been putting you on to the latest and most exciting artists, spaces and events across the country for some time now. Here's what we have for you this week:

‘Ullozhukku’ By Christo Tomy

Ullozhukk is a powerful story about women and resilience. Set against the backdrop of devastating floods, the film explores themes of family, loss, and the struggles women face in a patriarchal society. Actresses Urvashi and Parvathy Thiruvothu deliver powerful performances as a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law grappling with their complicated relationship. As their carefully constructed lives begin to unravel, the film takes you on an evocative journey that's both realistic and relatable.

Check it out here.

‘Kabhi Mein Kabhi Tum’ By AUR 

Karachi-based hip-hop trio AUR's latest release Kabhi Mein Kabhi Tum takes listeners on a nostalgic trip with its 90s aesthetic and heartfelt lyrics.The music video captures the era's vibe and the track itself blends old-school charm with contemporary sensibilities. The lyrics explore love, longing, and the timeless dance between connection and separation. It's a beautiful song that will surely resonate with fans of both classic and modern music.

Check it out here.

Three Centuries Of Travel Writing By Muslim Women

Three Centuries of Travel Writing by Muslim Women challenges stereotypes with firsthand accounts by Muslim women travellers from the 17th-20th centuries. Edited by Siobhan Lambert-Hurley, Daniel Majchrowicz, and Sunil Sharma, it's a captivating blend of a travelogue and a piece of historical reclamation. Delve into the journeys of queens, pilgrims, and even captives, all offering unique perspectives on Islamic culture and women's agency.

Check it out here.

Hand-Painted & Hand-Embroidered Textiles By Morii

Morii is a homegrown brand that bridges the gap between traditional Indian crafts and contemporary design. Founded by Brinda Dudhat, a textile design graduate, Morii collaborates with over 80 women artisans to create hand-embroidered textiles that are as much art as they are home decor. Their commitment to ethical practices and a community-driven approach ensures the survival of these age-old crafts while giving them a fresh, modern twist.

Check it out here.

Ground Up By Chef Gayatri Desai

Pune-based Ground Up is a restaurant unlike any other. Upstairs, an intimate space awaits, where a five-course tasting menu showcases fresh, seasonal produce alongside Ground Up's unique fermented creations. But the magic truly happens downstairs in the ‘Fermentation Station’, Chef Desai's playground for culinary alchemy. Here, house-made miso, beet kvass, and other innovative delights are born, adding depth and complexity to every dish.

Check it out here.

Paradiso Bar Takeover At Slink & Bardot

Slink & Bardot, Mumbai's hidden speakeasy, is hosting a bar takeover by Paradiso, currently ranked #1 on the World's 50 Best Bars list. This special two-day event (July 4th & 5th) will feature Paradiso's signature cocktails, including the Atlantide, Messenja, Kriptonite, and Revival Negroni, crafted by master mixologists Andrea Pagliarini and Matteo Ciarpa. Prepare to be enchanted by bespoke concoctions that tell captivating tales through unique flavours and textures - a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts in Mumbai.

Check it out here.

The Loka Chai Maker By Anish Shonpal and Nikhil Shah

The Loka Chai Maker is a new device designed to simplify the process of making chai at home. Created by two friends who bonded over their love for chai, the Loka Chai Maker eliminates the need for constant monitoring and prevents boil-overs. The unique design features a conical top that creates a "chai fountain" for brewing, enhancing both flavour and nutrients. With a built-in strainer and easy-to-clean parts, the Loka Chai Maker is a convenient way to enjoy chai every day.

Check it out here.

If you enjoyed reading this, here's more from Homegrown: 

'Glastonbury 2024's 'Arrivals' Was A Watershed Moment For South Asian Artistry & Heritage

sudan's Debut Album Is A Shapeshifting Gem That Has All The Makings Of A Modern Classic

'Open Theatre' Is A Community-Driven Platform Connecting Filmmakers To Film Enthusiasts