Global IndianstoryMeet Prachi Yadav, India’s first para canoe gold medallist in the Asian para games

Meet Prachi Yadav, India’s first para canoe gold medallist in the Asian para games

Written by: Vikram Sharma

(January 6, 2024) Being born with a disability can shatter anyone. But not Prachi Yadav. Paralysed below the waist, she did not let her disability come in the way of realising her dreams. She took the challenges head-on and canoed her way to success, scripting one of India’s most inspirational stories. “I stay focused, work hard and leave the rest to destiny,” smiles Prachi Yadav, the first Indian para canoe gold medallist in the Asian para games, speaking exclusively to Global Indian hours after being listed for the prestigious Arjuna Award.

The announcement didn’t fully take her by surprise. “Based on my achievements, I was hopeful that I would be nominated for Arjuna award,” says Prachi, who is clearly elated. With five gold medals, two silver and one bronze in international events and her splendid performance in the recent Asian Games, it was only a matter of time before her name was shortlisted for the prestigious award.

The Asian Games victory

The para canoeist clocked 54.962 to cover the 500 metre distance and win gold in the KL2 event at the Asian Para Games. The KL2 event is meant for athletes who propel themselves with their arms and partial trunk and leg functions. “I trained for three years for the Asian Games,” says the 28-year-old.

The moment she was declared the gold medallist, Prachi was seen in tears. “I was so happy that tears started flowing down atomatically. I cannot express in words how I felt after winning gold,” recalls Prachi. Para canoeing was introduced for the first time in the Hangzhou edition.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the country in congratulating Prachi Yadav. “This was an exceptional performance whichmade India proud,” the Prime Minister said, soon after her victory.

Born and brought up in Gwalior in Madhya Pradesh, Prachi’s mother Chandra Kumari Yadav died of cancer in 2003. It was her father Jagadish Singh Yadav, a retired Deputy Director in Agriculture department, who raised Prachi. “My father encouraged me and pushed me to pursue my dreams. Without him and his support, I would not be where I am today,” says Prachi.

She studied at a school run by Amar Jyoti Charitable trust till class 8 and then went to Saraswati Vidya Mandir from where she completed her class 12. Growing up, she loved to sketch and paint and was always athletic – “Before canoeing, I was a national level swimmer,” says Prachi. In 2007, she began to train as a swimmer at the Lakshmi Bai National Institute of Physical Education.

Taking to the canoe

Prchi loved to swim but wasn’t able to perform as well as she hoped internationally. So, when her coach, VK Dabas, suggested to switch to canoeing in 2015, she followed his advice. Dabas told her that with her height (5 feet 6 inches) and her long arms which would come handy for paddling, she would do well in para canoeing. “I travelled to Bhopal to watch canoeing. Since it was a water sport and an adventurous one, I took it up,” says Prachi, who was honoured with Vikram award by the Government of Madhya Pradesh on National Sports Day in 2020.

Through 2018, she learned the nuances of the sport, putting in several hours of practice everyday under the eye of her coach, Mayank Thakur. Since she couldn’t use the modern boats used by able-bodied athletes, Thakur made her a makeshift variety by attaching an oil drum to the normal canoe boat using a pair of bamboo poles so as to balance it well, on water.

The competition circuit

One year later, she was participating in para canoeing events across the country. In 2020, Prachi became the first ever Indian para canoeist to qualify for para canoe at the Summer Paralympics Games at Tokyo, Japan. Thereafter, with help from sponsors, modern para canoe boats made abroad were made available to her.

Two years later, Prachi won gold at Asian canoe para qualifiers for Asian Para games in Thailand and a bronze at ICF Canoe sprint and Paracanoe World Cup in Poland.

Practice and training

Prachi currently practices in Lower Lake in Bhopal, with Captain PK Baroi of the MP Water Sports Academy. Training begins at 6.30 am and goes on until 9.30 am, followed by an evening session that lasts between 3.30 pm and 7.30 pm. Prachi also found love along the way and married canoeist Manish Kaurav more than three years ago.

Prachi and her husband, Manish Kaurav

The boats used by her are different from those used by able bodied athletes, says Prachi, who participates in VL2 (Va) and KL2 (Kayak) categories. While the Kayak boat is slightly wider than the usual one, Va boat comes with a supporter which ensures good balance. Canoeing requires strong arms, so Prachi also takes protein supplements and energy drinks besides the regular food served at the water sports academy, and goes to the gym as part of her rigorous training. “I do CrossFit and circuit training to keep fit and use ergometers for technical training as well.”

So what’s next ?

“I am preparing for Asian Championship in Tokyo, Japan followed by the World Championship in Hungary and Paralympics in 2024,” informs the para canoeist, who won gold medals in VL2 and KL2 events at Asian Canoe championships in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

Ever since she made it big in para canoeing, Prachi has been flooded with calls from people who not only see her as an inspiration but also want to follow on her footsteps. “It’s nice that people, especially those with disabilities, are showing interest in learning para canoeing. I advise them to start with swimming first,” says Prachi, who is completely focussed on winning gold at Paralympics next year.

Prachi is also toying with the idea of opening an institute where she can coach para canoeists. “I haven’t thought about it much but might do that at a later stage. I would like to train para canoeists who can win medals for our country.”

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Published on 06, Jan 2024

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Celebrating 50 years: Madhur Jaffrey’s culinary legacy

(January 16, 2024) Renowned for securing the best actress award at the 1965 Berlin Film Festival for her portrayal of a pompous Bollywood star in Merchant Ivory's film 'Shakespeare Wallah', Madhur Jaffrey is a trailblazer in the culinary world. She has brought the delights of Indian cuisine, along with its diverse regional nuances, to successive generations of Western cooks. Recently, the 50th anniversary edition of her debut cookbook 'An Invitation to Indian Cooking' got released by the publishing group, Knopf. With its original edition 50 years back, the book had announced the arrival of a culinary star. 2023 also saw the release of the 40th anniversary edition of Madhur's another popular cookbook, 'Indian Cookery', updated with 11 new recipes. The first edition of the book was groundbreaking, coinciding with a BBC series of the same name featuring Madhur, and it went on to sell lakhs of copies. Madhur has authored more than 30 cookbooks in her illustrious career. At 90, the workaholic is far from slowing down. One of the biggest living authorities on Indian cuisine, Madhur keeps herself busy by educating Gen Z and Gen Alpha through her Masterclass on digital media. “Nobody knows spices like we do, we

ducating Gen Z and Gen Alpha through her Masterclass on digital media. “Nobody knows spices like we do, we are masters,” she announced proudly in its trailer.

[caption id="attachment_32665" align="aligncenter" width="525"] Indian Cuisine | Madhur Jaffrey | Global Indian Madhur's debut cookbook is celebrating its 50th anniversary edition[/caption]

“When my programme came on air, there weren’t any Indian cookery shows, it was an immediate hit,” Madhur Jaffrey told the BBC, talking about her ground breaking cookery programme that premiered in the United Kingdom 40 years ago.

The Padma Bhushan 2022 awardee grew up in Delhi and left for London in her 20s to study at The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art. She became an actress and later, turned to writing cookery books and presenting cookery shows. Little did she know that this career transition would turn out to be a significant step towards introducing India’s soft power to the western world.

[caption id="attachment_32663" align="aligncenter" width="544"] Indian Cuisine Madhur Jaffrey Madhur Jaffrey[/caption]

Indian food is a magical world where the art of using spices is so advanced that we’ve created a cuisine that exists nowhere else in the world!

Her debut cookbook, an Invitation to Indian Cooking (1973) introduced Indian food to western hemisphere for the first time. It was later inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s Cookbook Hall of Fame in 2006.

When she was hired by BBC to present her cookery show - Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery, it was meant to be an educational programme. The aim was to make people learn about Indian culture by introducing them to authentic food cooked in different regions of India. The show mesmerised people so much that Madhur soon became known as ‘spice girl’, thanks to the plethora of South Asian spices she introduced to the western homes. She was popularly called ‘the actress who can cook.’

Building respectful image of South Asians

“Until then, the South Asians were not represented the way they would have loved to see themselves on the television and cinema,” she said, in the interview with BBC.

[caption id="attachment_32664" align="aligncenter" width="574"] Madhur Jaffrey[/caption]

Madhur’s career transition had filled in the much-desired space with elan. Her show was the first mainstream series about Indian food to be broadcast in the UK and also the first one to be presented by an Indian.

Characteristically dressed in a crisp cotton saree, Madhur Jaffrey became the face of the South Asian diaspora in the UK. She knew this, tailoring her image to that of an attractive Indian who is modern, yes, but remains tied to her roots. That was the pre-internet era, so Madhur used to get flooded with letters of appreciation from her fans.

Ruling the supermarkets

If Madhur was exotic, the food she cooked seemed even more so to the uninitiated Western audiences. In fact, her recipes became so popular that Indian food was "tried by everybody all over England and beyond’. “The day I cooked chicken with green coriander, they ran out of green coriander in Manchester,” laughs the food expert.

The demand for Indian spices and ingredients grew so much that supermarkets started overstocking the ingredients that the Global Indian used in her cookery show.

[caption id="attachment_32666" align="aligncenter" width="598"] Indian Cuisine Madhur Jaffrey Madhur Jaffrey presenting her cookery show on BBC in 1980s[/caption]

The spice girl from India

In the introduction to her cookbook, At Home with Madhur Jaffrey, she writes, “The techniques used in Indian cooking are not any different from those used the world over: roasting, grilling, steaming, frying, stewing, braising and so on.” Yet it is distinct she emphasises.

What gives Indian cuisine its uniqueness, its tingling excitement, and its health-giving properties is the knowledgeable use of spices and seasonings, ancient in its provenance.

The food expert has authored close to thirty bestselling cookbooks on Indian, Asian and world vegetarian cuisine, and has appeared in several related television programmes. Apart from Madhur Jaffrey’s Indian Cookery that premiered in 1982, she presented Madhur Jaffrey's Far Eastern Cookery (1989) and Madhur Jaffrey's Flavours of India (1995).

[caption id="attachment_48280" align="aligncenter" width="456"] Indian Cuisine | Madhur Jaffrey | Global Indian Madhur Jaffrey[/caption]

What made her shows and books relevant for decades was the fact that she adapted to the time constraints of her fans. In one of her book introductions, Madhur shared, “My own cooking has changed over the years. I am often as rushed for time as perhaps you are. I am often asking myself is there an easier way to do this?”

Madhur made sure, therefore, to simplify her cooking to match with the times.

I now try to reach real Indian tastes by using simpler methods and fewer steps

The seven times winner of James Beard award wrote in one of her books.

As she made a huge name for herself in the traditional yet novel segment, Madhur went on to associate herself as food consultant of one of the most popular Indian restaurants in New York City - Dawat.

Madhur has also written three children’s books and two memoirs – Sweet Memories (2002) and Climbing the Mango Trees: A Memoir of a Childhood in India (2006).

Strengthening cultural relations between continents

Before becoming a television personality and delving into the domains of food and travel writing, Madhur had made a mark for herself as an Indian-British-American actress, starting with minor acting roles on BBC television and radio. One of her notable works is the film, Shakespeare Wallah (1965) for which she won the Silver Bear for Best Actress award at the 15th Berlin International Film Festival.

[caption id="attachment_32667" align="aligncenter" width="714"] Madhur Jaffrey Global Indian Madhur Jaffrey in one of her television shows[/caption]

During the course of her acting career, she enthralled audiences with her performances in television, films, radio and theatre. Perhaps this background contributes to her eloquence as a food presenter.

Her cookery shows have always been lively with powerful punchlines like:

Each grain of rice should be like brothers, close to each other but not stuck together.

After a divorce from Sayeed Jaffery, the notable actor who is father to her three daughters, Madhur married an American violinist. The couple have now been together for 56 years.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B2GKfjaZQZE

In recognition of her contribution to cultural relations between the UK, India and the United States, through film, television and cookery, Madhur was named the honorary Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2004. Padma Bhushan 2022, the third highest civilian award from the Government of India, is a testament of her service to Indian culinary art.

Follow Madhur Jaffrey on Twitter

Reading Time: 5 mins

From foreign shores to Indian stories: Exploring the foreign authors enthralled by India

(June 27, 2023) India has been a magnet for scholars from around the world for centuries. From Fa Hien to Megasthenes and Ferešte, numerous travelers have explored and penned books about this ancient land. Its timeless charm has beckoned the adventurous souls of writers and scholars for centuries, each drawn to uncover the hidden gems within its storied landscapes. With its rich tapestry of history, mythology, geography, anthropology, religion, and tradition, India continues to captivate modern writers who venture here from all corners of the globe. Global Indian turns the spotlight on a handful of foreign authors who have beautifully portrayed India and its vibrant history through their words. Mark Tully Adorned with prestigious honors like Padma Shree, Padma Bhushan, and Officer of the Order of the British Empire, author Sir William Mark Tully stands tall among the literary giants of our time. From his earliest days, he was captivated by the bustling streets, a kaleidoscope of colours, and the vibrant tapestry of Indian culture. Remarkably, this celebrated author once harbored aspirations of becoming a priest and even pursued theological studies in his early twenties. However, destiny had different plans in store. Expelled from the country in 1975 alongside numerous

tudies in his early twenties. However, destiny had different plans in store. Expelled from the country in 1975 alongside numerous foreign correspondents, Tully's position as the Chief of the BBC Bureau, led him back to India two years later, where he has since chosen to make his abode.

[caption id="attachment_30929" align="aligncenter" width="690"] Author | Mark Tully | Global Indian Sir William Mark Tully, author[/caption]

Since his debut work, "Amritsar: Mrs. Gandhi's Last Battle", India has remained the focal point of this author's literary endeavours. Each of his books offers a treasure trove of captivating narratives that effortlessly combine profound insights with educational value, leaving readers enthralled and reluctant to part with the pages. Over the span of five decades, the author's writings have spanned the spectrum of Indian existence, exploring the realms of politics, caste conflicts, blood feuds, and the everyday experiences of the common man.

Author | Mark Tully | Global Indian

Now, in his seasoned years, the venerable author presents a trio of engrossing collections: "Upcountry Tales: Once Upon A Time In The Heart Of India", "No Full Stops In India", and "India In Slow Motion". These extraordinary compilations of short stories are marked by a delightful blend of warmth, wit, and a compassionate gaze, offering a vivid glimpse into the intricate human theater that unfolds amidst the rural landscapes of northern India. Calling himself a Dilliwala in one of his interviews, Tully had said, "I believe in karma. My karma was to be born British — and you can’t lose that. I would love to be an Indian citizen. But in this country, you cannot have dual nationality."

William Dalrymple

Picture this: a fresh-faced 18-year-old lad arrives in the bustling streets of New Delhi, sent on a mission all the way from London. Little did he know that this city, notorious for its resilience in the face of destruction and rebirth seven times over, would steal his heart in an instant. And so, dear friends commenced a whirlwind romance that has captivated the collective imagination for a whopping three decades and counting. This love story is the stuff legends are made of, whispered with fervor throughout the town's nooks and crannies.

Author | William Dalrymple | Global Indian

"I never intended to come to India. I originally set out to be an archaeologist in the Middle East, but the dig I was assigned to in Iraq closed down — purportedly due to a nest of British spies. So, I joined a friend who was heading to India. I had no particular connection to the country, but when I arrived, it was one of those moments in life when everything changes. Thirty years later, I’m still here," author William Dalrymple had once written in one of his National Geographic articles.

The author's debut book on India, "City of Djinns: A Year in Delhi", weaves a tapestry of enchantment. A delightful blend of meticulous research and personal encounters, this marvelous creation captures the essence of the vibrant city in all its kaleidoscopic glory. Part memoir, part travelogue, it introduces us to a cast of characters that breathe life into the age-old streets. Surprisingly, our dear author was a tad unsure about the book's success. But the book skyrocketed to become a bestseller, propelling Dalrymple into a world of literary triumph. And that was just the beginning of his remarkable journey! His repertoire includes such gems as "White Mughals", "Nine Lives: In Search of the Sacred in Modern India", and "The Anarchy: The Relentless Rise of the East India Company".

Author | William Dalrymple | Global Indian

Even after 30 years, 11 books, and innumerable articles on Indian history, Dalrymple is still fascinated by this land. "I’ve been travelling around India for 30 years and there’s still a good quarter of the country I’ve yet to see. There are major monuments and mountain ranges, extraordinary places in the Himalayas I’m dying to visit. India is a continent rather than a country — you could never run out of things to explore here. I feel like a child in a sweet shop or a miser in a bank vault sometimes. There’s an almost infinite amount to take in, see and understand," he had written in his article.

Katherine Boo

In the realm of journalism, acclaim often eludes those who merely report on the ordinary. However, when Katherine Boo ventured into the heart of Mumbai's Annawadi, she discovered an irresistible calling to amplify the voices of the downtrodden and marginalised. Undeterred by the daunting task ahead, she fearlessly delved into the depths of this community. For a remarkable span of two years, spanning from 2008 to 2010, Katherine immersed herself in the very fabric of the slums, immersing her senses in their stories. This immersive experience would ultimately culminate in her compact yet profound masterpiece, "Behind the Beautiful Forevers," a 250-page chronicle that encapsulates the resilience and struggles of those living amidst the shadows of prosperity.

[caption id="attachment_30933" align="aligncenter" width="616"] Author | Katherine Boo | Global Indian Katherine Boo, author[/caption]

Vividly illustrated, the book conduits tales of developing-world poverty. Dealing with rats and sick people daily in her two years of research, the Pulitzer-winning author said in an interview that once she stepped into their world, it was hard to step back. "I'm not squeamish. Tuberculosis was a concern: there were many people I spent time with whose stories were that they got sicker and sicker and then they died. But if you're curious, you don't dwell on it that much. It was not pleasant to fall into the sewage lake. But at the same time, I didn't know it was a petrochemical type of stuff until I fell in, so that was something I learned."

Author | Katherine Boo | Global Indian

Still in India, searching for her next subject, Katherine feels that there is so much left to be explored in this ancient land. "When in Mumbai these days I find myself still making tapes, documenting corruption and social problems — I can’t help myself."

Alex Ruttherford

Unleashing the mighty Mughals from their crypts onto the bookshelves of countless Indian readers, and now even onto their television screens, are none other than the enigmatic duo - Diana and Michael Preston. Better known to the world by their pseudonym "Alex Rutherford", the couple have been utterly bewitched by the allure of the subcontinent's rich past since their days as students at Oxford University. It all began with a serendipitous jaunt to India, where the majestic Taj Mahal beckoned their inquisitive souls. Inspired by this architectural masterpiece, the intrepid couple embarked on a remarkable journey of research, initially immersing themselves in the tale of the monument's creation, before delving deep into the remarkable dynasty responsible for numerous awe-inspiring structures across India.

Their quest for knowledge even led them to traverse the mesmerizing Ferghana Valley in Kyrgyzstan, retracing the footsteps of the illustrious first Mughal emperor, Babur. And lo and behold, from this captivating odyssey emerged the illustrious six-book series, aptly titled "Empire of the Moghul," a spellbinding work of historical fiction that has enraptured readers far and wide.

[caption id="attachment_30931" align="aligncenter" width="641"] Author | Alex Rutherford | Global Indian Diana and Michael Preston, authors[/caption]

"Ever since our university days, we wanted to be writers. What inspired us to write about India was the travelling that we did here. We came to India very soon after we got married and we kept coming back, because we were so fascinated by the society here, the complex, multi-layered history and that's what eventually many years after our first visit, we wrote our book, a non-fiction about the creation of the Taj Mahal. Since we had read all the chronicles of the Moghuls, to understand the genesis of that building, it led us to write a series of novels, The Empire of the Moghul," Diana had said during a recent interview.

Author | Alex Rutherford | Global Indian

Among their literary offspring are "A Teardrop on the Cheek of Time: The Story of the Taj Mahal," a poignant tale entwined with the fabric of Mughal Indian society, and "Fortune's Soldier," a mesmerizing narrative that dances through the very heart of this captivating era. And if that wasn't enough, brace yourselves for the latest twist in the saga! The renowned director, Nikhil, has worked his magic, transforming the epic "Empire of the Moghul" series into a captivating web extravaganza, now streaming exclusively on Disney+ Hotstar.

Reading Time: 6 mins

The Indian students who won Belgium university’s KICK Challenge Award with their edible cutlery innovation

(October 11, 2021) What does a brewer’s spent grain have to do with cutlery? Absolutely nothing, yet in this latest innovation, everything. The next time you order food, gobble away, and chomp on the cutlery instead. There will be much less plastic in the world. Three Indian students from Ku Leuven University in Belgium created a biodegradable, edible cutlery brand called Eco Ware from a beer by-product, and it won the 2021 KICK Challenge Student Award. Anusuya Samantaray, Apoorva Vardhan and Varun Singh won this university business competition which focuses on social entrepreneurship. Their end goal is now to create a sustainable world, and reduce the human carbon footprint at a time when the latest Climate Change report warns us of the consequences of living on the edge. [caption id="attachment_12770" align="aligncenter" width="1600"] Apoorva Vardhan | KICK Challenge Student Award Winner[/caption] What got them started Anusuya was pained at the sight of the trashed beaches in Odisha, and even helped clear plastic waste as a child while Varun and Apoorva also wanted to help Belgium (and the world) answer the single use plastic menace. Apoorva (Faculty of Science), Varun (Faculty of Bioscience Engineering), Anusuya (Master of science in sustainable development) found that spent

1600" height="1589" /> Apoorva Vardhan | KICK Challenge Student Award Winner[/caption]

What got them started

Anusuya was pained at the sight of the trashed beaches in Odisha, and even helped clear plastic waste as a child while Varun and Apoorva also wanted to help Belgium (and the world) answer the single use plastic menace.

Apoorva (Faculty of Science), Varun (Faculty of Bioscience Engineering), Anusuya (Master of science in sustainable development) found that spent was perfect to make edible cutlery.

“Apoorva, Varun and I did a lot of research and found that spent grain, a byproduct of the beer manufacturing industry is edible and a rich source of fiber. Restaurants in Belgium also use spent grain in pizzas. The country has over 1,000 beer brands and generates 60,000 MT of spent grain annually. We decided to use this to come up with an edible cutlery range including spoons and dip cups,” Anusuya told Global Indian.

“We were aware of edible cutlery and its presence in minimum capacities in India. There was also this concern that it’s being made out of agriculturally stressed products (wheat for example). We wanted to find possibilities to make it as eco-friendly as possible. Thanks to Varun, we discovered how brewers spent grain (BSG) could be of use. Apoorva and I, as students of sustainability, further incorporated ideas to reduce the carbon footprint by going local with our project.”

[caption id="attachment_12771" align="aligncenter" width="754"] Indian Youth - Eco Ware Edible Cutlery | Indian Students Belgium The edible cutlery developed by the Anusuya, Apoorva and Varun[/caption]

Work in progress

The team came up with Eco Ware cups and trays that was awarded the Gemma Frisius KICK Student Award for a business idea with impact. The trio researched extensively, and conducted a small pilot survey to understand consumer behavior with a focus on edible cutlery — 91% were open to the use edible cutlery, 3% showed partial interest.

Given that KU Leuven is the European capital of innovation, they were confident that the idea will kindle eco-consciousness among all. In agreement about the lack of sustainable policies in India, poverty, policy making and execution hurdles, they hope to ignite the same fervor back home. Even as Leuven sets the pace for such interventions, Anusuya feels there is a lot to learn from the indigenous communities in India, “Their knowledge of organic material such as using sal leaves to stitch plates, natural non-toxic dyes, farming methods, there is much tacit knowledge of the environment that could be used to build on innovating sustainable ways of living.”

Indian Youth - Eco Ware Edible Cutlery | Indian Students Belgium

For any foodie, taste is tantamount to consumption, so how does spent grain translate on the taste meter? Spent grain is used by farmers as fodder, and there has been a growing interest in alternative uses of spent grain in the food industry. “Brewer’s spent grain is a perfectly edible by-product of the beer industry, and is being significantly incorporated into breads, cookies and even pizza doughs because of its rich fiber content," says Anusuya.

“As a matter of justification, according to a paper presented at the 18th European Roundtable on Sustainable Consumption and Production Conference (ERSCP 2017), spent grain is proven to be rich in fiber and protein content. The only reason breweries simply give away the grains as fodder or discard them is because there is no current large-scale industry set up to add value to the processed spent grain/flour. Processing of spent grains into flour is an energy demanding task, so they find it feasible to sell it as fodder. We want to bridge the gap."

Being eco conscious

Anusuya’s upbringing had much to do with her chosen course. Her father’s naturalist leanings helped her gain knowledge about coastal bio-diversity. In fact, Sanjay Samantaray is the chief organizer of the India Surf Festival and founder of Surfing Yogis. A childhood amidst the tranquil seaside forests of Puri, influenced by her father who is action oriented and hosts events like beach clean-up drives, and promotes eco-tourism, she adds, "Sustainable development addresses the intricacies of the complexities; a process that is holistic and takes into account all three dimensions — societies, ecology and the economy to pursue sustainable growth,” says the girl, who did her BSc in sustainable development at Xavier University, Bhubaneswar.

[caption id="attachment_12773" align="aligncenter" width="631"] KICK Challenge Student Award - Eco Ware Edible Cutlery | Indian Students Belgium Varun Singh | KICK Challenge Student Award Winner[/caption]

Kanpur boy Varun Singh, 25, is doing his Masters in Food Technology (IUPFOOD), offered by KU Leuven and Ghent University. It is his experience that cemented this innovation. A B.Tech in food technology from Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Varun also worked as a manufacturing executive in Too Yumm and a research associate at Mordor Intelligence.

“The knowledge and exposure at the Faculty of Bioscience Engineering is life-changing. I get to work on critical industrial problems related to food processing, packaging, and preservation. Added is the access to labs equipped with the latest equipment, valuing millions of Euros, used for the sole purpose of increasing food safety, food innovation, and promoting healthy eating,” says Varun. His research interest is working on chocolates as Belgium is world-famous for its expertise, and loves composing music, playing the guitar, and sketching.

For Apoorva, who is originally from Delhi, but has lived in Pune, her bachelors in Plant Sciences from University of Delhi paved the way for a degree in sustainable development with a specialization in ecology. She too is passionate and is inspired most by, “How you can come up with solutions that have the power to change the world and bring systemic change in society,” says the student, who will be traveling to Rwanda shortly for field work and master thesis, and is interested in agroforestry and food systems, for her PhD or career.

[caption id="attachment_12826" align="aligncenter" width="800"] KICK Challenge Student Award - Eco Ware Edible Cutlery | Indian Students Belgium Anusuya Samantaray | KICK Challenge Student Award Winner[/caption]

Road ahead

They now want to develop a finished product with the help of Leuven Research and Development department of KU Leuven, collaborating with researchers and research labs at KU Leuven’s beer institute. Working on developing partnerships with breweries in Leuven, they will go local before expansion. Product development, manufacturing and building partnerships is their focus, and they are on the lookout for funds and partnerships for distribution. They believe in ideating and challenging frontiers. In unison they say, “Keep hustling,” adding that research was their foundation.

As they work towards a tangible product, there is a second year to complete, projects, and master thesis to finish too. Anasuya adds, “While most other companies are exploring the market using rice and wheat, which are agriculturally stressed commodities, the spent grain initiative is most eco-friendly. Upon discovering sustainability, it made me believe that the problems we face today are not isolated affairs. Sustainable development addresses the intricacies of the complexities; a process that is holistic and takes into account all three dimensions — societies, ecology and the economy to pursue sustainable growth.”

Reading Time: 10 mins

Japanese twins, Indian dream: Mai and Asuka Hatta’s Hasora venture

(December 1, 2023) In an unexpected tale of cultural fusion and entrepreneurial spirit, Mai and Asuka Hatta, Japanese twins hailing from Chiba Prefecture near Tokyo in Japan, have orchestrated a unique narrative in India. Their journey commenced with a passion for discovering India, organic farming and a dedication to empowering local farmers. The twins ventured into India leaving behind the lucrative prospect of working in the United States where they studied, and their homeland, Japan, to set up base in a country they only knew through studies and a close Indian friend. Mai, who studied Political Science and Economics in the US, felt a deep connection to India through academic explorations and friendships. Her determination to understand the nation first-hand led her to find a job in an organisation in Jaipur that was seeking a Japanese employee. Later, she moved to an NGO in Dehradun which was working to economically empower the marginalised communities. [caption id="attachment_47144" align="aligncenter" width="924"] Mai and Asuka Hatta[/caption] Asuka, also educated in the US, had initially planned a brief visit to the country to meet her sister but found herself captivated by the uniqueness India offered and decided to stay on, finding a job in the

eight="483" /> Mai and Asuka Hatta[/caption]

Asuka, also educated in the US, had initially planned a brief visit to the country to meet her sister but found herself captivated by the uniqueness India offered and decided to stay on, finding a job in the country. "It was my destiny; I followed my passion, my heart," said Mai in a conversation with Global Indian. She wanted to explore the India that lay beyond the confines of her textbooks and lectures. Mai has been living in India for the last 13 years, while Asuka is in the eleventh year of her stay in the country.

Turning to entrepreneurship

In 2016, they founded Hasora, after seeing fellow expats struggle to find fresh and safe vegetables that are native to Japanese cuisine. They also recognised the plight of local farmers at the hands of intermediaries. It motivated the twins to partner with local organic vegetable farmers around where they lived, in an attempt to reshape the traditional supply chain by offering farm-to-table produce within days of harvest.

However, Mai and Asuka’s journey wasn't without hurdles. Overcoming the challenges of establishing trust with local farmers was a significant learning curve. Some farmers initially exploited their trust, by taking money but never fulfilling the orders. However, this lead Mai and Asuka to devise new strategies in engaging and collaborating with reliable partners. “Now we do not pay until we get the produce,” laughs Mai.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYJ-ZnIDbvg

By bridging the gap between farmers and consumers, the twins aim to diminish the role of intermediaries and ensuring fairer returns for farmers who are marginalised in the current system. The sisters' dedication extends beyond commerce. They are actively involved in an initiative called the "Oishii Nippon Project," encouraging the cultivation of Japanese vegetables in India by providing seeds and technical know-how of growing such vegetables to their suppliers - the local farmers of NCR and Uttarakhand. Their venture seeks to create sustainable agricultural practices that uplift both the farming community and the environment.

Cultivating culture and commerce

‘Hasora’ in Japanese means green leaves growing under the expansive blue sky," Mai explains adding, “The name symbolises growth, serenity and happiness.” Hasora is also a term derived from the Hindi word 'Hasna,' meaning 'to laugh.” Thus their venture’s brand name encompasses the essence of growth and happiness resonating deeply with both Japanese and Indian cultures.

Mai and Asuka have learned to communicate in Hindi which is an essential requirement while engaging with local farmers of NCR and Uttarakhand. Mai, with a modest grin, admits, "I'm slightly more proficient in Hindi than my sister."

Beyond their thriving online ecommerce platform, the twins have established a physical outlet in Gurgaon. This space serves as a hub for an eclectic fusion of offerings, ranging from fresh Japanese vegetables and grocery items to some Korean specialities and a variety of Indian everyday essentials such as tea and coffee.

Mai and Asuka Hatta | Startups | Global Indian

In their quest to fuse cultures, Hasora's outlet in Gurgaon also serves as a haven for authentic Japanese food like Teriyaki chicken, fresh vegetables roll sushi, tofu rice bowl matcha and more. Mai, showcasing her culinary prowess, personally prepares meals along with a chef specialising in Japanese cuisine. “95 percent of both our online as well as offline clientele comprise of Japanese and Korean expats while the rest of the five percent are Indian customers,” Mai says.

India through Japanese eyes

While embracing India's rich culture and landscapes, the twins, now seasoned explorers of the subcontinent, express a sense of wonderment at the country's diversity. Apart from NCR, Uttarakhand and Rajasthan, they have also visited Maharashtra, West Bengal, Karnataka and Kerala.

Although their Japanese upbringing has instilled a penchant for discipline, contrasting starkly with the disorderliness they occasionally observe in public spaces of North India, they love the country too much to let it be a spoke in the wheel.

Their parents live in Japan, where their father manages a consultancy business, while their mother is a danseuse and dance instructor.

In a family cantered around their two daughters, their parents were on top of the world when Mai and Asuka secured admission in San Francisco State University and California State University respectively. “My mother was in tears when I had informed her that I am moving to India after completing my studies,” smiles Mai, recalling how the safety of women, especially in the northern India 13 years ago was a matter of big concern. Added to that, neither the daughters nor the family had previously set foot in India.

[caption id="attachment_47146" align="aligncenter" width="1024"] Mai and Asuka Hatta | Startups | Global Indian Japanese expats in India during an event organised by Hasora[/caption]

In the first five years, Mai and Asuka’s parents did not visit India as every time the girls went back to Japan on a vacation, they thought it would be their final trip back home. However, contrary to their beliefs, when the girls transitioned into successful entrepreneurs, their parents understood that their passion for India runs deep. “They are our biggest supporters now,” smiles Mai.

Having visited India three to four times since, the twins’ parents have cultivated a genuine love for exploring its rich cultural diversity. Yet, amid their admiration for the country, one aspect remains perplexing - the lack of discipline, contrasting Japan's ingrained culture of everyday discipline.

But Mai and Asuka hardly complain. They are part of the milieu and love everything about the country of their choice. “While I’m in love with Palak Paneer, I can even make chapattis now,” Mai smiles.

As they continue their Indian journey, Mai and Asuka envision a future where organic farming and fair trade practices flourish. Happy that their enterprise not only ensures fresh, pesticide-free vegetables but also champions economic empowerment, Mai says, “Our goal is to make Hasora bigger in its operations so that along with us the farmers associated with us also witness financial growth.”

Follow Hasora on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and its website

Reading Time: 5 mins

How Actor Kal Penn shattered Hollywood stereotypes and became the political voice for South Asian immigrants in the US

(November 4, 2024) Kal Penn remembers the day he changed his name. He was just starting out as an actor, a college student sending headshots to casting agents and getting silence in return. A friend suggested a simple switch: go by “Kal Penn” instead of Kalpen Modi, and he might get a response. He laughed it off, but curiosity got the better of him. Within a week of mailing out headshots with his new name, he had auditions lined up. “It was surreal,” he recalls. “Just changing my name made me visible to them.” Known for his role as Kumar in the Harold & Kumar series, he brought one of the first complex South Asian American characters to mainstream comedy, changing the way audiences saw Asian American leads on screen. Penn’s impact didn’t stop at comedy; over two decades, he took on roles in films like The Namesake and Designated Survivor, broadening the representation of South Asians in American film and television. The Global Indian left Hollywood in 2009 to join the Obama administration, surprising many who couldn’t understand why he’d trade acting for politics. For him, it was about public service—a value he grew up with. In his new

couldn’t understand why he’d trade acting for politics. For him, it was about public service—a value he grew up with. In his new role, Penn worked on outreach to Asian American, Pacific Islander, and arts communities. Though seen as “the actor” in D.C., adviser Valerie Jarrett reminded him he was there for his unique perspective, not his fame.

[caption id="attachment_59226" align="aligncenter" width="933"] actor Kal Penn | Global Indian Kal Penn with former US President Barack Obama[/caption]

Early Life

Penn grew up in Montclair, New Jersey, the son of Indian immigrants who had high hopes for his future. His father arrived in the United States with a handful of dollars, working to provide stability for his family. For them, a career in medicine or engineering would mean Penn had “made it.” “Acting was something they just couldn’t see as stable,” he says. But Penn was drawn to theater early on, performing in school plays, knowing that his family’s support came with concerns. He took this passion to UCLA, majoring in sociology and theater, where he faced the realities of trying to break into Hollywood as a South Asian actor.

“Every role I’d see was a stereotype,” he recalls, thinking back to his first auditions. He’d show up, only to find that the roles he was reading for were cab drivers, tech support guys, or nameless “foreigners” who barely had lines. “There was this expectation that I’d put on an accent, act like a caricature,” he says. The industry wasn’t interested in casting him as a leading man, but Penn kept pushing, convinced he could prove them wrong.

Hollywood calling

In 2004, Penn got his breakthrough with *Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle*, a comedy about two stoner friends on a surreal quest for fast food. The character of Kumar was unlike anything he’d seen—a South Asian lead who was funny, flawed, and just a regular guy. “I read the script and thought, ‘This is different,’” he says. “Kumar wasn’t a punchline, he was the guy with a story.” The film became an unexpected hit, and audiences connected with Kumar, especially young people who rarely saw someone who looked like them in a role like this. For Penn, the role was a revelation, proof that there was space for South Asians as more than just stereotypes.

But Harold & Kumar didn’t transform Hollywood overnight. “People assumed that movie would open all the doors,” he says, “but I kept getting offers for the same kind of parts.” Instead of settling, Penn sought roles that challenged the industry’s narrow view of him. One of these was The Namesake, based on Jhumpa Lahiri’s novel. Directed by Mira Nair, the film follows Gogol, a young man straddling his Indian heritage and his American identity. “It was the most rewarding role I’d ever had,” Penn says, noting that it gave him the chance to tell a story that felt real. “I could relate to Gogol on so many levels—it was more than just acting.”

[caption id="attachment_59227" align="aligncenter" width="1400"] actor Kal Penn | Global Indian Actor Kal Penn in a still from Harold and Kumar[/caption]

Politics

In 2007, while filming the TV drama House, Penn’s life took an unexpected turn. A friend and co-star, Olivia Wilde, invited him to a campaign event for Barack Obama. Penn went, curious but not expecting much. Listening to Obama, though, something shifted. “He was talking about change in a way that felt real,” Penn recalls. Inspired, he joined the campaign as a volunteer, traveling to Iowa to knock on doors and connect with voters, many of whom were surprised to see a familiar face at their doorstep.

In 2009, after Obama’s victory, Kal Penn made a surprising choice: he stepped away from acting to join the administration as an associate director in the White House Office of Public Engagement. “People thought I was nuts,” he says. “They couldn’t understand why I’d leave Hollywood for Washington.” For Penn, though, it wasn’t about abandoning one career for another; it was about public service, something he’d grown up hearing about in his family. “My family didn’t fight for opportunities just so I could settle for something easy,” he says.

In Washington, Penn focused on outreach to Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and the arts community. But he also faced a new kind of challenge. “In Hollywood, I was typecast as the ‘Indian guy,’” he says. “In D.C., I was ‘the actor.’” He remembers confiding in senior adviser Valerie Jarrett about his concerns. She reassured him, telling him, “You’re here because of what you bring, not because of what you’ve done on screen.” Jarrett’s support helped him lean into his role, connecting with communities across the country. “This wasn’t about being recognized—it was about doing the work,” he says.

His two-year tenure in the White House ended in 2011, but the experience left a lasting impact on him. “Being part of something meaningful was a new feeling for me,” he says. After returning to Hollywood, Penn found that his time in Washington had broadened his sense of purpose. “It gave me a different perspective on what mattered,” he reflects.

Personal Life

[caption id="attachment_59228" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] actor Kal Penn | Global Indian Kal with his partner, Josh[/caption]

In 2021, Penn published You Can’t Be Serious=, a memoir that opened a new window into his life, particularly his long-term relationship with his partner, Josh. For over a decade, he’d kept their relationship private. “Josh isn’t into the spotlight, and I respected that,” he explains. But writing the memoir felt like a moment to be candid. “I wanted to show up fully as myself,” he says, adding that the response from readers was overwhelmingly supportive.

For Kal Penn, opening up about his personal life wasn’t about making a statement; it was about authenticity. “I knew that sharing my story could make others feel seen,” he says. For years, Penn had been a visible figure in Hollywood, but now he was bringing every part of his identity into the conversation.

Legacy

Today, Kal Penn stands as a figure who has pushed past the limits of Hollywood and Washington, showing that it’s possible to create space for more diverse voices. “I’ve learned you don’t have to be just one thing,” he says. For him, that truth has shaped a career that defies easy categorization. As he continues to work in Hollywood and beyond, he’s focused on telling stories that matter, creating room for others to tell theirs.

Follow actor Kal Penn on Instagram.