Sharing Indian culture
The Holi tradition dates back nearly 1,000 years in India. Carried abroad by Indian emigrants and students, it has recently become a global celebration as well.
Indians in Taiwan also celebrate Diwali, the Indian New Year, dressing up and gathering with their compatriots in November to light fireworks, dance, and eat seasonal dishes. Out of respect for the dietary restrictions of Jains, organizers of these gatherings make sure to include dishes that contain no root vegetables (such as potatoes, onions, or garlic).
“In India, we pass the New Year with our own ethnic and religious groups, but in Taiwan we celebrate together without regard for religious background. We’re like one big family,” says Shan Manish, head of the Taiwan Indian Club, who explains that these events help expatriate children become familiar with their own traditional culture and customs, enabling them to better hold on to their roots.
Originally from Delhi, Srivastava has spent 12 years in Taiwan. His wife, children, and seven restaurants now make it feel like home. While Srivastava is well acquainted with Taiwan’s culture, he recognizes that many Taiwanese are not equally familiar with India’s. He began organizing Holi celebrations for the public here in 2013 to try to rectify that by increasing the general public’s awareness of Indian culture and stories. For this year’s celebrations, he’s arranged simultaneous events in Taipei, Taoyuan and Hsinchu that will feature performances by Indian dance companies.
“Sweets are an important part of Indian celebrations,” adds Srivastava.
Those who buy tickets to his Holi events will therefore be provided with treats such as laddu (chickpea flour and ghee shaped into balls with nuts and syrup), gujiya (fried dumplings filled with dried fruits, nuts, and brown sugar), and vegetarian curry puffs, to introduce them to Indian food culture.
Everyone dresses up for Diwali, the Indian New Year festival.