Latest stories

The Disappearing Dak Nam

For many Bengalis, the naming tradition is a way to express cultural pride and intimacy. But for others, it might be on the way out.

The Cobra Effect and the Colonial Gaze

How the world’s foremost experts popularized the made-up story of a British incentive to curb Delhi’s snake population.

‘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.

Why South Asians Love Muhammad Ali

The boxing legend symbolizes more than just athletic prowess for those from the subcontinent.

South Asian Love Stories: 2024

From whether romantic kissing originated in India to the queer legacy of ‘Bend It Like Beckham,’ dive into our favorite stories on love in all its forms.

How Parkchester Became “Little Bangladesh”

The once exclusively white neighborhood is a haven for immigrants. But does its success threaten its future?

“Mundian To Bach Ke,” The Bhangra Anthem That Lives On

The 2003 Panjabi MC and Jay-Z track became a global sensation. More than 20 years later, we’ve yet to experience anything like it. Why?

Celebrating Lunar New Year: 2024

Fifteen stories on the interconnected histories of China, South Korea, Malaysia, and South Asia — from the creation of Indo-Chinese food to anti-Asian U.S. immigration policy.

Pakistan’s Generals Have Lost Its People

The country’s military has engineered election results and controlled the economy for over 70 years. Its civilians have yet to benefit.

How Indian South Africans Fought Apartheid

Many history books have forgotten the activists who joined forces with the Black community in dismantling state-sponsored racism.

Pomegranates, the Ruby Jewels of the East

A viral article claimed the fruit is tasteless and making a “comeback.” But for South Asians and Iranians, it transcends any fad.

Why Are We Still Talking About ‘Animal’?

Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s paean to violence, misogyny, and daddy issues is a laughably poor film, one that benefits from endless discourse.

Celebrating Black History Month: 2024

Revisit the often-overlooked, intertwined histories of Black and South Asian communities.

No Doubt’s Tony Kanal, Man of Mystery

The Indian American bassist had an outsized role in the band’s breakout success. Why don’t we know more about him?

Coupon Clipping to Clicking: The Brown Love of a Deal

Indian American immigrants in the 1980s and 1990s embraced discounts as a means of survival, raising a generation of bargain hunters.

‘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.

Howard Hodgkin, the Unlikely Collector of Indian Art

The late British artist amassed one of the most notable subcontinental troves. To this day, we know little about their rightful owners.

Kajal: Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder

In the West, black eyeliner can mean sultriness, “exotic”-ness, or danger. But for South Asians, the millennia-old ritual imbues confidence and power.

India’s Ram Mandir Inauguration Pulls in its Global Diaspora

For some, it’s a historic event. For others, it’s a symbol of growing Hindutva and a reminder of sectarian violence.