Growing up as a first-generation Indian-American has been a beautiful yet complex journey. Raised in Alabama by Indian parents, I was steeped in both Indian and American traditions—a rare blend that created a unique tapestry of experiences, challenges, and life lessons. Being deeply rooted in two cultures brought countless assumptions, both from Indian and American communities. Through my personal journey and the practice of yoga, I’ve learned to move beyond others’ expectations and embrace my true self.
Straddling Two Worlds
My parents came to America to build a life that combined the best of both worlds, teaching my siblings and me not only the language, food, and festivals of our heritage but also how to thrive in American society. Growing up in the 70s in Alabama, I was one of only two Indian kids in school, which made me “different” in many ways. But my parents took this difference as an opportunity, teaching us the value of family, friendship, and self-respect, and nurturing our deep connection to Indian culture. My mother tongue, Telugu, was spoken at home, and we learned to understand, speak, and even read and write it—skills that many assumed I wouldn’t have because of my American accent.
However, being fluent in English often led to its own set of assumptions. I’ve had people comment, "Wow, your American accent is so good for an Indian!" This often comes with the assumption that, since my family is Indian, English couldn’t be my first language, even though I was born and raised here. It’s moments like these, on both sides, that highlight how easily people rely on surface-level judgments.
Assumptions from Both Sides
Interestingly, the Indian community can sometimes be the quickest to assume my knowledge of our culture is lacking. Many Indians who didn’t grow up here automatically think I might not know how to speak my native language, follow our religious customs, or understand the subtleties of our culture. They’re sometimes surprised to learn I know more than they anticipated. Since I don’t speak Hindi, which isn’t my mother tongue, people often assume I don’t know any Indian languages or question my fluency. I’ve even had people quiz me on the meaning of specific cultural terms, expecting me to fail. Despite these assumptions, my parents ensured that our connection to Indian culture was deeply ingrained and intact.
Similarly, from the American perspective, I’ve occasionally been seen as “different,” with some assuming I wouldn’t fully understand American customs. The reality, however, is that I am equally connected to American values and traditions. Being part of both cultures, I embody a blend that, to me, is seamless but to others can seem like an enigma.
Finding My Voice Through Yoga
As I became a yoga teacher, I brought with me the spiritual and cultural depth of my Indian roots. Surprisingly, many non-Indians were drawn to my classes, wanting to learn more about the spiritual and historical aspects of yoga because of my heritage. This deepened my connection to the practice, as I was able to authentically teach from a place of true understanding. However, I found it more challenging to gain the trust of some within the Indian community. As an American-born Indian, there seemed to be doubts about whether I was “Indian enough” to teach yoga—despite the fact that my family’s teachings and my heritage are what led me to yoga in the first place.
Over the last ten years of practicing and teaching yoga, I’ve learned to let go of these built-up identities that were created by others’ assumptions. Yoga has taught me to accept who I am without the need for validation from either side. I no longer feel the need to prove my knowledge of Indian culture or my American upbringing; I know my roots, and I am confident in the unique blend of cultures that makes me who I am.
A Lesson in Judgment
This journey has taught me that judgment and assumptions are often a reflection of our limited understanding. My experiences as a first-generation Indian-American have given me resilience and perspective and have strengthened my respect for both heritages. Each of us has a unique story, one that goes far deeper than what’s visible on the surface. It’s a reminder for us all: don’t judge a book by its cover. Every person’s life is a blend of experiences, challenges, and lessons that make them who they are.
Embracing the True Self
At the heart of this story is a simple yet powerful realization: I am more than the assumptions others make. I am more than my accent, my language, my appearance, or my background. I am a blend of both Indian and American cultures, shaped by my parents’ teachings, my community, and my own journey. Through yoga and the practice of self-awareness, I’ve learned to let go of labels and live authentically. I am an individual, and I am me.
For anyone who’s navigating multiple identities or feeling misunderstood, know this: you don’t need to fit into anyone’s idea of who you should be. Embrace who you truly are, because there is incredible beauty in authenticity.
Thank you for joining me in this journey, and if you’d like to hear more, tune into my podcast *Living Healthy Living Well Podcast.* Each episode dives into aspects of health, wellness, and the journey toward becoming our truest selves. And remember, don’t judge a book by its cover—you never know the full story until you listen.
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