Why ‘Main Hoon Na’ is More Relevant Than Ever
Farah Khan’s 2004 blockbuster wasn’t just a college comedy. It reflected a fragile moment of optimism between India and Pakistan.
Snigdha Sur
‘Superboys of Malegaon’ Spotlights the Joy — and Pain — of Cinema
What do you do when Bollywood is out of reach? If you're from one small town, you make your own damn movie.
Forget American Tariffs — Is this India’s Free Trade Moment?
For many, India is the “poster child” for the perils of high duties. Now, it has a rare chance to cut deals and reshape the global world order.
‘The White Lotus’ and the Illusion of Enlightenment
Season 3 uses Buddhism to dissect greed, anger, and delusion. Does it succeed or is it more Western spiritual tourism?
‘A Nice Indian Boy’ is Lovely — and a Little Too Nice
What happens when two ‘DDLJ’-loving men fall in love and want a big Indian wedding?
Devika Rani, More than the Longest Kiss
Hindi cinema’s matriarch founded a film studio, launched stars, and left a legacy far beyond one moment.
A Founder, a Divorce, and the Trial by X
Rippling co-founder Prasanna Sankar is in a viral fight with his ex-wife over money, custody, and reputation — and the internet is choosing sides.
In ‘Baksho Bondi,’ One Woman Holds it All Together
The Bengali film by Tanushree Das and Saumya Sahi spotlights the realities of female labor — in a society that often fails to value it.
Divya Bharti, Bollywood’s Lost Superstar
The once-in-a-generation talent delivered 19 movies in two years. Her untimely death left a void — and questions that remain unsolved.
Why is ‘The White Lotus’ So White?
Season 3 takes place in Thailand. The guests of the eponymous luxury resort don’t reflect that reality.
‘Deli Boys’ Serves Up Some Spicy, Tasty Achaar
Two incompetent brothers. One badass aunty. A family cocaine business. What could possibly go wrong?
When Meghan Met Mindy
The Duchess of Sussex’s Netflix show has sparked debate over everything from her last name to her lewks. One episode, however, takes the cake.
‘Anuja’: Two Ambitious Sisters, One Choice
The Oscar-nominated short upends gender dynamics to show us a world of possibility — and the impossibility of hard choices.
An Inauguration, A Hat, and Many Executive Orders
On day one, the Trump administration celebrated some immigrant success stories — and made others virtually impossible.
The South Asians Rebuilding After the L.A. Fires
From cooking 5,000 meals a week to organizing donation drives, many are turning to community service to heal.
The Female Gaze of ‘Kaho Naa…Pyaar Hai’
How screenwriter Honey Irani flipped the script on gender dynamics and created a superhit.
How ‘3 Idiots’ Redefined Success
The beloved film poignantly critiqued academic pressure. But are we any closer to a world where learning thrives over fear?
‘PK’: The Alien Who Took on Godmen and Won
Rajkumar Hirani’s 2014 blockbuster film asks us to think critically about faith — and everything else.
How Dylan Bachelet Became the Flavor King
The Gujarati, Japanese, and Belgian ‘Great British Bake Off’ finalist won over legions of fans, one emotional bake at a time.
‘Bread & Roses’: The Afghan Women Who Refuse to Disappear
The powerful documentary captures their defiance against the Taliban’s oppression — and dares us to do more than watch.
Tabu, Mother of Versatility
The actor can play anyone from a murderous wife to an all-seeing truthsayer. Her secret? Plan less.
‘Veer-Zaara’: An Ode to Undivided India
Yash Chopra’s cross-border love story transports us to the country he longs for — and still believes is possible.
Sid Sriram Has Only Scratched the Surface
The Carnatic singer pulls off unexpected collaborations — from soul to jazz — with aplomb.
‘Jigra’: Raja Beta Syndrome on Steroids
The Alia Bhatt-Vedang Raina film follows a sister who’ll do whatever it takes to save her jailed brother. The result is, unexpectedly, magic.
Naveen Andrews Doesn’t Believe He’s Sexy
The actor discusses his latest show, how he nailed that ‘Bride and Prejudice’ dance, and why he wants to change the world.
‘CTRL’ Foretells Our AI Future
Vikramaditya Motwane and Ananya Panday chat about their new no-holds-barred thriller.
‘Khoobsurat’ Isn’t Your Typical Comfort Watch
The 2014 film pays homage to a time when everyday families — and unapologetic women — were front and center.
In ‘Girls Will Be Girls,’ Women Find Refuge in One Another
In a world that polices its women more than its men, the debut feature film from Shuchi Talati offers up a salve.
‘Trap’: M. Night Shyamalan’s Anxieties in Concert Form
The horror director’s latest film is his most personal yet. We chatted with him and Saleka Shyamalan to find out why.
‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ Recast Masculinity
And we’re here for it.
‘Bridgerton’ Season 3, Part 2: Women Finally Get to Have it All
Must it always be about the marriage mart? The Regency Era drama concludes this season: definitely not.
‘The Watchers’: Horror, with a Shyamalan Twist
No, not that one. Director Ishana Shyamalan, 24, chats about her first feature film in a very familiar genre.
‘Bridgerton’ Season 3: Little Spice, But Still Very Nice
The delicious Regency era drama and Kanthony are back. But don’t expect the unexpected.
‘Laapataa Ladies’: A Master Class in Loss, Love, and Laughs
What happens when a man takes home the wrong bride? Hijinks galore and a searing treatise on how society treats women.
‘Monkey Man’ Review: Visually Stunning, But Hollow
Dev Patel’s directorial debut wastes the richness of the Indian mythology it draws from. But we can’t stop watching.
Vikas Khanna Isn’t Done Flying
The Michelin-star chef’s latest — and likely last — restaurant, Bungalow, is a manifestation of his mantra: “I’m as good as my last dish.”
When ‘Queen’ Taught Us to Think for Ourselves
The 2014 film about a jilted fiancée’s solo honeymoon reminds us that change can begin with one simple decision.
‘To Kill A Tiger’ is Powerful, Yet Overlooks Its Women
The Oscar-nominated documentary follows a father seeking justice for his daughter, a survivor of a brutal rape. But its women rarely get the spotlight.
‘One Day’: Hollywood Romance with a South Asian Twist
The Netflix adaptation of the 2009 novel isn’t groundbreaking. But Ambika Mod as romantic lead Emma is.
‘Monkey Man’ Trailer Out: Dev Patel Directs, Writes, and Acts
The film — about a man out for revenge in Mumbai, India — counts Jordan Peele as co-producer and is set to release on April 5 in theaters.
‘Fighter’ Review: All Flair, Few Feels
The Deepika Padukone and Hrithik Roshan film has plenty of action, but a tired storyline wastes its immense star power.
‘Public Obscenities’ is the Most Bengali Play
Choton and his partner Raheem visit Kolkata to document the lives of LGBTQ Indians. They discover far more.
Avantika on ‘Mean Girls’: “Brown Girls Can Be Dumb, Too”
The hit 2004 film is back as an on-screen musical, giving us Hollywood’s first South Asian ditz: Karen Shetty.
‘Dunki’ Has a Powerful Message, But Loses the Plot
The first ever Rajkumar Hirani-Shah Rukh Khan film will give you all the feels. Try not to think about the details.
2023’s Biggest Moments for South Asians Globally
The year, wrapped.
How Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti Create Magic
The filmmakers chatted about what makes their partnership work, creating ‘The Archies,’ that alternate ending to ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,’ and what’s next.
How ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ Gave Us Perspective
Was Shah Rukh Khan’s Aman just a manic pixie dream girl? Or something more?
‘The Marvels’ Squanders Iman Vellani’s Kamala Khan
The latest Marvel film doesn’t take advantage of uniting three powerful storylines, including that of its first Pakistani American superhero.
‘Baazigar,’ the Killer Thriller Gamble that Struck Gold
The 1993 film with a murderous villain as a hero sent shockwaves through Bollywood and turned its actors and directors into veritable stars.
John Kapoor, the Billionaire Pain Hustler
The Indian American’s drug company pushed its fentanyl spray at any cost. But did jailing him change anything?
‘Jawan’: What’s Old is New Again — And More Relevant Than Ever
The latest action blockbuster from Shah Rukh Khan showcases the actor’s many avatars, with epic storytelling that has long been missing in Hindi cinema.
‘Made in Heaven’ Season 2 Was Well Worth the Wait
Back after four years, the cult hit that uses weddings to examine India’s societal baggage is still preachy. But we can’t stop watching.
‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ Review: Big Bollywood Romance is Back
But it’s not about the Punjabi-Bengali love story you think it’s about.
‘Never Have I Ever’ Stars Reflect on What’s Next: “There’s More to Come”
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Poorna Jagannathan, and Richa Moorjani sat down to chat about the last season of the beloved teen comedy.
Dev Shah is the 2023 National Spelling Bee Champion
The 14-year-old won $50,000 and the coveted trophy. His winning word was “psammophile.”
How Diipa Büller-Khosla Got to Cannes — And Brought Her Brand
She was the first Indian-born influencer invited to the exclusive event. The indē wild founder is now bringing more Indian women with her.
Zarna Garg, the Indian Mom Making the World Laugh
The comedian known for her viral mom jokes is now out with her first hour-long special — and she isn’t afraid to offend you.
‘Piku’ Reminds Us Not To Take Sh*t from the Patriarchy
The 2015 film about a widower obsessed with his bowel movements and his headstrong daughter shows us why we shouldn’t care about what society demands of us.
Sima Aunty from ‘Indian Matchmaking’ Has Had Enough
For the Mumbai matchmaker and reality television star, today’s youth are too picky, too impatient, and too confused.
‘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.
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.
‘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.
Tan France on What’s ‘Next in Fashion’
The ‘Queer Eye’ veteran chats about season two of the Netflix design competition show, the future of South Asian fashion, and more.
‘The Romantics’ Evokes Nostalgia, But Lacks Nuance
The documentary celebrating 50 years of Bollywood studio Yash Raj Films has touching moments, but avoids deeper conversations.
‘Pathaan’ Marks Shah Rukh Khan’s Glorious Return
The star-driven action flick is well worth the wait. Deepika Padukone and John Abraham take it to the next level.
Camelback Ventures is Bringing South Asian Films to Arizona
State tax credits have spurred a $10 million evergreen fund to invest in South Asian projects in Hollywood, and bring them to the Grand Canyon State.
‘In Search of Bengali Harlem’ is a Pursuit of Belonging
The documentary follows Alauddin Ullah as he traces his family’s past to 1930s New York, where Black, Puerto Rican, and Bengali marriages created a culture of their own.
‘Moshari’: Why Bangladeshi Horror Always Made Sense
Director Nuhash Humayun chats about how he added Jordan Peele and Riz Ahmed as exec producers, turning the short film into a feature, and what’s next.
How ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’ Became a Meme
The beloved 2001 Bollywood film somehow has the right scene for all of life’s moments.
Naeem Khan is Never Satisfied
The famed fashion designer opens up about his roots, his rise, the buzzy A-lister who could take his brand to the next level, and what an Indian-wear line could look like.
Deepika Padukone is Building an Empire
The launch of 82°E, her self-described “self-care” brand, is only the start for the Bollywood superstar.
How Sabyasachi Found Himself
As a young designer at New York Fashion Week, Sabyasachi Mukherjee was told to go back to India. He returned to one of his favorite cities on his own terms.
How ‘Jab We Met’ Changed Bollywood Romance Forever
The 2007 film broke the rules with its strong female lead and a romance rooted in friendship. Today, it’s still the perfect rewatch.
Rishi Sunak is the Next U.K. Prime Minister, Making History
The former chancellor of the exchequer, 42, is the first person of color, first person of Indian origin, and first Hindu to take on the top role in the country.
‘Vikram Vedha’ Marks the Return of Bollywood Nuance
The remake of the hit 2017 Tamil film gives us delightfully meaty characters who go beyond good vs. evil.
How Love is Blind’s Deepti is Learning to Choose Herself
The reality television star went viral for walking out of her wedding. What came next redefined her approach to life, love, and happiness.
Is Adnan Syed Innocent or Guilty?
No matter the truth, there is little justice in the case that enraptured the world.
‘Brahmāstra’ Review: Powerful, Yet Fatally Flawed
The epic fantasy film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt is the first of its kind, but disappointingly leans into tired Bollywood tropes.
The Fierceness of Poorna Jagannathan
We talked to the star about starting her acting career in her 30s, playing fearless women, and why she almost said no to ‘Never Have I Ever.’
Alia Bhatt Refuses to Be Predictable
Critics dismissed her after her debut. Peers now call her the best actor in Bollywood. We chatted with the ‘Darlings’ star on how she pulls off powerful character-driven roles.
The Opulence and Arrogance of ‘Devdas’
Why did we love the Sanjay Leela Bhansali magnum opus with massive sets, expensive costumes, and overacting galore? We revisit the film on its 20th anniversary.
Why ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ Gets Better With Age
The 2013 movie remains a friendly note to self that people, and friendships, change — and that isn’t always a bad thing.
The “Tacky NRI Fashion” Debate is About More Than Style
Allegations that diaspora Indians wear “tacky” Indian fashion sparked internet fury on Instagram account Diet Sabya. But the root of the debate isn’t about fashion at all.
Parminder Nagra Should Have Been a Superstar
'Bend It Like Beckham' turned Keira Knightley and Jonathan Rhys Meyers into overnight celebrities. Why didn’t it do the same for its British Indian stars?
How Aditi Shah Built a Following By Teaching People to Be Still
Peloton’s only South Asian instructor is bringing yoga and meditation to the digital space while honoring their roots. And now, she’s Puma’s latest ambassador.
‘Flee’ Humanizes the Trauma of Escape and Survival Like We’ve Never Seen Before
The Oscar-nominated animated documentary tells the harrowing real-life story of Amin Nawabi, forced to escape from Kabul, Afghanistan in the 1980s.
Indra Nooyi is an Optimist
We chatted with the former PepsiCo CEO about crypto, support structures for thriving families, how she came to love pizza, and much more.
‘The Fame Game’ Gives Us Madhuri Dixit in All Her Glory
As Bollywood superstar Anamika Anand, the talented actor pushes back against the industry’s obsession with young actresses, setting our screens on fire.
‘Gangubai Kathiawadi’: Come, and Stay, for Alia Bhatt
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s latest movie, about the true story of a brothel matron in Bombay’s Kamathipura, is the first time he centers one star’s acting prowess. And we’re here for it.
Rowdy Rooster Wants You to Fall in Love with Indian Fried Chicken
Roni Mazumdar and Chintan Pandya — behind New York City restaurants Adda, Dhamaka, and Semma — just launched their first quick-serve concept.
‘Gehraiyaan’ Isn’t What You Think It’s About
The latest Deepika Padukone starrer from director Shakun Batra asks us what we carry with us, and what we’re willing to let go.
Aasif Mandvi Wants You to See Him as an Actor, Not a Comedian
The actor, writer, and future director chats about playing Ben Shakir in “Evil,” becoming a father, and why you can’t put him in a box.
Who is Sunny Balwani?
Former Theranos CEO Elizabeth Holmes has accused her number-two of psychological and sexual abuse, yet little is known about him and his motives.
‘Eternals’ Review: Come for the Action, Stay for the Humor
Kumail Nanjiani's Kingo is easily one of the highlights of the latest entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
How Diwali Marketing Went Mainstream in the U.S.
More brands than ever before are promoting their products to Hindu Americans with targeted Diwali ads.
One Year On, Justice Eludes Fahim Saleh
On July 13, 2020, the Bangladeshi American tech entrepreneur was murdered in his NYC apartment. Over a year later, his family is still seeking justice.
“Femininity with a Bite”: Why Prabal Gurung Gets Political
The Nepali American fashion designer sat down to chat about dressing everyone from Kamala Harris to Deepika Padukone, why strong women inspire him, and the enduring fashion of 'Rangeela.'
“Be Careful”: WhatsApp Forwards Spread Fear and Misinformation
Messages intended to increase awareness of potential COVID transmission among South Asian Americans, but the impact has been more alarming.
Why Bollywood Loved — and Lost — Fawad Khan
It’s been years since fans have seen the iconic Pakistani actor in Hindi cinema. But they can’t seem to forget him.
Talking Shop with Ankiti Bose
The co-founder and CEO of Zilingo talks about her startup, sustainable supply chains, and of course, Sabyasachi.
The Oscar-Shortlisted "Bittu" More Than Delivers
A series of interlinked unfortunate events, rather than any malintent, leads to the tightly-woven short film’s ultimate climax and tragedy.
How Riz Ahmed Stretches Culture
The multi-hyphenate actor and musician consistently produces the deep cuts when it comes to Brown culture and history — and, now, he’s creating for himself.
Hrishikesh Hirway, a Masterclass in the Interview
We interviewed the interviewer, asking the brains behind “Song Exploder,” “Home Cooking,” and “The West Wing Weekly” what makes him so good.
The Love and Irreverence of Mira Nair
The director — whose films have launched careers, won awards, and dazzled audiences with their earthy sensuality — reflects on decades of “riling people up.”
Why We Love Sarita Choudhury
Nearly 30 years after her sizzling debut in “Mississippi Masala,” Choudhury plays the role of a mother in the latest Blumhouse horror flick with sensuality and aplomb.
Ten Years of Dishoom
Co-founder Shamil Thakrar shares what it takes to build a food institution — deepen, don’t dilute.
The Evolution of Padma Lakshmi
Her latest show “Taste the Nation” is just the culmination of who she’s always been: an authentic food writer, history nerd, and steward of culture.
The Strong Women of Never Have I Ever
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan and Richa Moorjani break down what made the ladies in Mindy Kaling’s latest show such badasses.
The Rise of the Indian-Origin CEO
A wave of Indian CEOs has the world buzzing. Is there more to it than just a demographic shift? And have they made a difference?
Gran Dabbang Brings Indian Heat to Argentina
Chef Mariano Ramón combines Argentinian herbs with Indian recipes to set a new standard in Buenos Aires.
Shubham Goel, Reality TV’s Favorite Brown Guy
How did the 23-year-old self-described “Indian James Bond” go from ranking dead last to nearly winning the show and becoming a fan-favorite?
Who Cares About the Oscars Anyway?
In an #OscarsSoWhite kind of world, should we still care about the awards?
2019: South Asia in Review
We’re highlighting the 10 trends we saw in 2019 and the five trends brewing in 2020.
The Books of the Decade
The books that defined not only my 2010s, but also my 20s.
How Amol Sarva Built a Better WeWork
The Knotel co-founder and CEO shares how Knotel is better (and cheaper) than WeWork, and his plans to be in every part of the office — from the walls to the couch.
Rianjali, A.R. Rahman Protege, is a Musical Swiss Army Knife
Ria Bhowmick, a singer trained in Hindustani classical and Bengali songs, can do it all when it comes to producing music.
What It Takes to Be Madame Gandhi
In today’s hectic, social media-driven world, the percussionist asks us to look inward in her latest album Visions — and succeeds.
When Amitav Ghosh Predicted the L.A. Wildfires
His 2019 novel, ‘Gun Island,’ warned us of increasingly connected, global climate events — and their dire impact.
How Zareen’s Feeds Silicon Valley
The Pakistani American entrepreneur has built a beloved brand in the heart of Silicon Valley by testing and scaling different South Asian food concepts.
The Spelling Bee and the Power of a Network
Indian Americans dominate the bee. But what if you don't need to be Indian American to win?
From Beauty to Fashion: Nykaa Does it All
How much of its beauty playbook can Nykaa follow as it builds its fashion vertical? And what must it create anew?
Tea Can Be Cool: Re-envisioning Chai
Fine dining veteran Christopher Bunet brings fine dining principles (experimentation, precision, presentation) to chai at The Hideout Chai Bar in the Lower East Side.
