Directed by: Nina Paley, Sita Sings the Blues. 2009. 82 min

I’m not usually a fan of animation. If Pixar is not involved, I generally don’t give it another glance because I tend to automatically associate animation with the child-orientated cartoons that my 22-year old brain has deceivingly convinced itself of not enjoying anymore. However, I came across Sita Sings the Blues in a film class of mine about a year ago. This feature length animation depicts the ancient Hindu epic, Ramayan, and being the horrible barely-practicing Hindu that I am, I felt the slightest bit guilty for not being entirely familiar with the source material. But this article really isn’t about my insecurities – it’s about the incredibly creative and humorous interpretation of Nina Paley’s version of Ramayan.

The film employs several different animation styles (including rotoscope and silhouette) to weave the tale of Sita and Ram while also incorporating Paley’s own personal narrative – the motivation for the film. Paley is neither Hindu nor of Indian descent (more on that later), yet she spent some time in India following her husband who took a job there. In the process of visiting New York, she discovered him to have sneakily and abruptly divorced her. As a consequence and a coping method, as much art comes to be, she used Ramayan as a way to create a film that expressed her own interpretation as it related to her life. And so much of the film, despite expectations of accuracy to the sources material, presents a personal and highly original piece of work.

The story of Ram and Sita — a long and complicated tale, boiled down to love, kidnapping, loyalty, and particularly in this version, womanhood –  is presented through the narration of three silhouetted figures. Much of their commentary has a contemporary sass and humor – largely credited to the voice actors who participated in a mostly unscripted and opinionated discussion. Some of the best laugh out loud (not to be mistaken for the average fake, text filler, lols, but the real thing) moments are due to the organic and relatable  conversation that the narrators provide for the film. These shadow puppets are not only aligned with traditional Indian shadow puppetry, but their discussion is a reflection of the strong history of oral culture in India – that is the tradition of passing down stories from generation to generation.

Another creative feature of this animation ties directly into the title – Sita Sings the Blues. Literally, a story of Sita ‘singing’ the blues (which is really the voice of late 30s jazz singer, Annette Hanshaw) is interwoven into the rest of the tale. It’s particularly interesting to see the singing and dancing, which directly aligns with Bollywood style (and is a common feature of animations as well), and yet Paley utilizes the voice and music of an old-fashioned American female blues singer. (The rest of the music in the film is used in the background throughout and is in Indian style.)

As I mentioned earlier, there were critiques about this film. Among the complaints, conservative Hindus and left-wing academics both, questioned Paley’s ability to portray such a sacred text and conservative Hindu groups in particular, were offended by the Sita slanted interpretation in which Paley chose to tell the story. And academics were more concerned with the fact that Paley as a white woman was attempting to represent a subject, which in their opinion, she had no authority to represent. Ultimately, in a case like this, where there is a person who creates art from a source material outside of their own culture, and furthermore when said source material holds a great amount of cultural weight and notoriety, opposition seems inevitable. Personally, I think Nina Paley has done a terrific job of writing, directing, and animating this film. Maybe my love would slightly be diminished if I was more familiar with the Ramayana and felt that this work was somehow blasphemous to the original, however I have to argue against this idea of cultural possessiveness. That is, we are obviously living in a globalized world where art, along with everything else, is becoming easily accessible to everyone with free time and an internet connection. Immigration, outsourcing, travel, tourism – all of these trends have become reality of our world, and are complicit, contributing factors in the creation of this film. I’d say it’s definitely a good thing – just don’t use pop culture or one person’s perspective as a cheat sheet guide to literature, religion, history, etc.

It’s a niche film, but visually stimulating, quirky, and thoroughly entertaining. And a bonus – it’s free! The whole movie is available on YouTube, and according to Paley’s website for the film, she has released all copyright claims to advocate a “shared culture,” where art is distributed to the community and made accessible to all.

Only a fellow brown girl knows how hard it is to make it. And by make it, I mean, strip ourselves away from the tensions and insecurities that arise from being immigrants, and turn it one of our biggest strengths.

An emerging and supremely talented young artist, Anjulie Persaud (This isn’t official, but it sounds like a variation of “Anjali Prasad”) is slowly making her way onto the music scene. The Canadian singer’s parents who are of Indian descent were originally from Guyana, who then moved to Canada. Talking about turning her weakness into strength – our spotlight brown girl who is slowly “making it” got her first break in the music industry right after being fired from her job at a record studio. Uh.. what?!

She’s got a unique voice for sure – frank lyrics, and deep, catchy melodies that makes you pay attention. If listened to carefully, the lyrics can unravel a very introspective, smart woman. “I think I have something to say lyrically” she writes on her website (www.anjuliemusic.com) “My background is in songwriting, so I’m really invested in melodies, song structure and payoff choruses, but on this record, I tried to loosen up and just express myself how I wanted to. I really write for myself.” And her self-titled debut album suggests, she really does.

On my first look, she reminded me of Amy WInehouse, on my second, Nelly Furtado, on my third a little bit of Lauryn Hill. That makes sense because she has been influenced by an  array of different artists – from Alanis Morisette to Annie Lennox to Kanye West, and it shows in how different and eclectic her music really is. People across the world, are starting to really dig her music, and so we might just be looking at the Next Music Sensation. Her debut album reached Number 2 on Billboard’s Heatseeker Albums and number 108 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart. The single ‘Boom’ reached Number one  the US Dance Charts.

Here’s a brown girl to watch out for and take inspiration from, and hopefully, one day she will be big enough for us to tell everyone that we knew about her first!

Check her music at www.myspace.com/anjulie

In January 2008, Dr. Renu Khator became the thirteenth president of the University of Houston and the eighth chancellor of the University of Houston System. She joined a handful of female presidents of major universities and is the first South Asian president of a major university in the country.

Dr. Khator is certainly an inspiring woman for the South Asian community to be proud of. I had the privilege to interview her recently on behalf of BG. She took the time to answer my questions about her current position, the criticism and obstacles she faces, and the role of her Indian heritage in her life.

What exactly does the position of President of University of Houston and Chancellor of the University of Houston System entail? Can you describe a typical day at work?

As chancellor, I oversee the University of Houston System, which includes four separate universities – the University of Houston (UH), the University of Houston-Clear Lake, the University of Houston-Downtown and the University of Houston-Victoria.  Each of these is a distinct institution, not just branch campuses, with its own president.  In addition to being chancellor, I also serve as president of UH, the largest university in our UH System with 37,000 students.

Describing a “typical” day is hard because this job is so multi-faceted.  You are the CEO of a large business – the UH System has a $3 billion impact on the area’s economy each year – and the chief educational administrator and a student advocate and a major fundraiser and a cheerleader and a community leader.  I wear many hats – and that’s what makes this position so demanding and so satisfying.  So … a “typical” day might start with early morning meetings with some of my vice presidents and other administration leaders, followed by my observing a class, followed by giving a luncheon speech to a civic organization then visiting with an international dignitary visiting our campus followed by an hour or two returning phone calls and e-mails and performing other office work then attending some sort of social or athletic event – sometimes both – during the evening. Back home, I will probably spend some time catching up on university-related reading.

How do you develop a relationship with the student body to ensure that you are addressing their concerns and remaining aware of the issues that they are being faced with at the University?

From my very first day at the university, I have made it clear that Student Success is my top priority and everything my administration does must support that commitment.  I think my official policies reflect that. But it’s also important to establish a personal connection, which is a challenge with a student body as large as ours.  I make it a point to maintain a relationship with our leaders in the student government association and other prominent student organizations as well as make myself available to the student newspaper. Beyond that, I visit a number of classes each semester – and drop in at places like the coffee shops and restaurants, the bookstore and the residence halls.

I am sure that a position of such magnitude and influence also comes with a lot of critics. How do you go about handling the criticism that you must deal with on a regular basis.

Criticism is unavoidable.  If you are not getting any, you are not doing anything.  If it is constructive criticism, I try to make good use of it.  If it is destructive, I try to ignore it.  The challenge, of course, is recognizing the difference.

What are some of the most unexpected obstacles you have been faced with and the greatest challenges you have had to overcome in order to reach the position you are in today?

One unexpected obstacle, if you can call it that, was my own reluctance to recognize my early aspirations to become a leader.  Giving myself permission to follow my ambition was not easy.  As for the greatest challenges I had to overcome… well, as an immigrant woman, I always have known that I had to work harder to climb the ladder.

In your article, Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling, you write about self-imposed barriers and the limits and misconceptions that sometimes come with Asian cultural heritage. Has your Indian upbringing ever given you an advantage at any point? Have you ever felt that you needed to resort to the values, traditions, and lessons from your youth to get you through a certain situation?

Always!  I have always viewed my Indian heritage as an advantage and have always used my values and lessons to form my leadership and management style.  The biggest mistake people make is to either hide or deny their own heritage.  People often label my leadership style as inclusive, people-oriented and consensus-building.  I believe it is the result of watching my mother navigate through multiple players in a joint family and eventually accomplish her agenda. As examples of my pride in my heritage:  I frequently use stories from Indian history and quotes and poems from Indian authors.  My fashion style is also a fusion of Indian and American styles.

Dr. Khator with her husband, Suresh Khator.

South Asian culture obviously places a large emphasis on family values, and many times an individual’s identity is greatly distinguished by their relationships and who they are to other people. As a mother, do you feel as though your children have contributed to your success? Are there certain lessons that they have taught you that have helped you along your journey?

My daughters are a big part of my life, both personally and professionally.  It always felt like we were all part of a team with each of us pushing others to achieve their maximum potential.  Today, they are my soul mates and brainstorming buddies when it comes to difficult situations.  They have certainly helped me grow socially and culturally.  They truly are my eyes when it comes to seeing the world of today’s youth. Their pride in me is an inspiration in itself.

If you could give one piece of advice to young South Asian-American women about anything, what would it be?

If you are going to dream – and everybody should dream – dream big.   If a teenage immigrant girl in an arranged marriage with no knowledge of English can become president of a major American university, who is to say you can’t achieve what you set out to do as well?

What is your favorite or most memorable experience you have had while being University President and University Chancellor?

I’m pleased to say there are so many to choose from, it’s a difficult question.  Certainly the investiture ceremony, which celebrated my appointment as president, is one of them.   Another was the voters of Texas approving an amendment that will make funding available for UH to become a Tier One, nationally competitive research university.  Watching the proud faces of 7,000 students being awarded their degrees at our latest commencement exercise was thrilling.  And, I must confess, UH being ranked in the country’s Top 25 football teams last season was very special, too.

You are a role model for scores of people of all different backgrounds. In your article, An Ode to my Mother, you graciously credit your mother for your success. Apart from your mother, do you have any other role models that have taught you valuable lessons to help you become the person you are today?

Without a doubt, my husband, Suresh, has been a beacon of wisdom and the architect of my career.  Beyond that, I have also received important guidance and support from my mentors in the academic arena.  I don’t think you can underestimate the benefits of having a mentor.

The magnitude of your position and the rigorous schedule it involves probably do not allow for much free time, but when you do have the occasional moment to yourself, what do you enjoy doing?

Practicing yoga.  Keeping up with my family and friends. Just taking a walk around the neighborhood. Cooking, when that’s possible.  As you say, there’s not much free time –fortunately, I find that most of what I do professionally is also very satisfying personally.

If you would like to read the full articles referred to in the interview, follow the links below:

Breaking the Bamboo Ceiling: http://www.uh.edu/president/about/articles/pdf-files/Khator_ACE_bambooceiling.pdf.

Mother’s Day Special: An Ode to my Mother: http://getahead.rediff.com/report/2010/may/08/renu-khator-an-ode-to-my-mother.htm.
**correction to last post. Dr. Khator is not the first female president of a university in Texas. There have been a few before her. However, she joins a handful of amazing women who run universities across the US.

BG is asking for your support for one of our fellow staffers. Foram Mehta (University of Texas) is auditioning to win her very own show on Oprah’s new network. Amongst thousands of submissions, Foram stands out as a bubbly personality and a fellow brown girl that’s definitely smart, hip, and beautiful!

Check out Foram’s audition and vote her now!

Recently, I was able to interview Anand Wilder, a member of the increasingly popular indie band Yeasayer. Wilder plays guitar, keyboards, and contributes to vocals as well. Yeasayer has a greatly unique sound and their recently released second album, Odd Blood, has been generally well received and praised throughout the music community. Spin Magazine, in a review for the album, described the music as a “masterful mash-up of ’80s synth pop and tribal-beat tickles,” among other things (like I said, pretty damn unique).

In a about a week, Yeasayer will begin an international tour after finishing up playing all over the US (and selling out many of the venues). Personally, I’m a huge fan of the band, and being able to ask Wilder a few questions about his life and his music was a great treat. Although, I had to remind myself to not get carried away with the whole fan-girl thing and ask dumb questions like “zomg, like, do you have a girlfriend???”

Check out the interview (he gives some really interesting answers), as well as the video and their website, www.yeasayer.net. At the website, you can download their single “O.N.E.” (for free!), as well as get updates and touring info.

PP: How did you get your start in music? Early influences?

AW: I have always been interested in music as long as I can remember. I started playing cello when I was 4 1/2, so I had all that classical music as an influence, but I always had a love affair with pop music. From an early age, I was obsessed with all of my mom’s classic rock, The Beatles, Dylan, Bowie, The Rolling Stones, Simon and Garfunkel. The first contemporary music I discovered on my own was stuff like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, Beck, all that 90′s alt rock. My sister was really into TLC, Kriss Kross, Boyz II Men, so that was a big influence on me too. But it was really those rock bands that made me want to learn guitar, and in a totally different way than I had learned cello, all by ear, learning from friends in the hallways at school, or at summer camp around a campfire.

PP: Tell me a little bit about your background (you know — childhood, hopes, dreams, fears — typical life story stuff).

AW: I had a really happy childhood. I always loved performing, whether it was cello performances or school plays. I think I was just a big show off, still am. I always wanted to act or be a rock star.

PP: I know you have been touring regularly with the band these past few years — what has been your favorite city?

AW: I really loved touring in New Zealand and Australia. There are a few places that I never thought I’d enjoy, but have been pleasant surprises, and have become some of my favorite places to visit, like Austin, and Texas in general, and Minneapolis- the Walker Arts Center is a great modern art museum there. Of course LA and San Francisco area always fun to visit. Paris is great because I get to practice my french a little. Norway and Sweden are beautiful, and Italy and Spain are great fun too.

PP: And speaking of touring, how was Coachella? Did you have any favorite acts?

AW: I thought Fever Ray was amazing at Coachella. Great costumes, lighting, the sound was great, and I love her music.

PP: What do you think of South Asian artists who have also broken into indie/mainstream music success, like Natasha Khan (Bat for Lashes), M.I.A., and yourself? Is there a different responsibility or consciousness involved with being South Asian and a musician in an industry environment where there are so few?

www.pinkushion.com - Photograph by Pascal Amoyel

AW: I love M.I.A. and Natasha Khan’s music. I would add that Das Racist engage South Asian and “brown identity issues” in the most sophisticated and hilarious manner of any contemporary artists. Truthfully, I don’t feel a burden of responsibility as a South Asian musician in an industry where there are so few. I am half Indian, so if I want, I can identify with the multitude of ridiculously talented mixed breeds out there: James Brown is part Apache, Bob Marley’s dad was white, Prince is definitely something weird. And Freddie Mercury is the greatest singer of all time, and he’s a Parsi, born in India. But, I guess you could say that those first guys I mentioned identified themselves as Black, and Freddie Mercury did everything he could to play down the whole Asian thing and is remembered as a British pop star.  But then there’s still trailblazers like Tony Kanal from No Doubt and Kim Thayil from Soundgarden. One could argue that those were sidemen though, and that’s what so great about Natasha Khan and M.I.A.- their brown faces are front and center.

I’m sort of halfway there. I’m not the frontman, but I’m not exactly a sideman because I do sing lead on a bunch of our songs, and I really try to put myself out there. If I wasn’t singing lead on at least a few songs I’d be really disappointed in myself. But I really think that’s enough, as far as my burden of responsibility. Indians who live in America are not a downtrodden minority. I could write a song about being brown but I would feel like I’m bitching about something that doesn’t really upset me. It’s fine as a subject for stand up comedy, and I think there are a lot of great movies about Indians growing up in America that haven’t been written yet, but it just doesn’t appeal to me as a subject for a song.

The problems facing Indians in America are what? Parents pressuring their kids to become professionals, parents valuing academics over social lives, parents pressuring their kids to marry. When you think about it in the grand scheme of things, these problems are really not that bad! I’m pretty sure Indians are America’s wealthiest ethnic group – I think if I was fully Indian, statistically I’d be a richer man! At least more educated. So the only thing holding us back from being in the spotlight is ourselves. Sure there’s probably some institutional racism out there, but I’ve been around the world, and there’s no place as open as America. Europe is an ass-backward, old school place. Everyone who wanted to do something new and interesting with their lives left Europe for America at one time or another. Don’t let all that supposed progressiveness fool you, they’re xenophobic as hell. And I love to visit India, but come on – it is a dusty, corrupt, and chaotic country, with an even more despicable gap between the rich and poor than America’s. Did I mention the dust?!

I embrace being different from your average white musician. That’s part of what I love about my band; we all have different personalities or backgrounds and we try to throw them all into the mix to create something new and interesting sounding. If I can be onstage and inspire some brown kid out there to pursue something artistic, something other than being a doctor or engineer, then I’m doing a good job. And if they want be a doctor or an engineer, good for them! Less competition for me.

PP: What is the one instrument you would love to learn but don’t know how to play?

AW: I would love to actually know how to play the piano.

PP: Do you get groupies? What is the fan-base like? Any crazies?

AW: We have some crazy fans that we sometimes have to kick out of the backstage when they come creeping in. But so far nobody’s been that crazy. We don’t have bodyguards yet…

PP: What is the most embarrassing thing in your iPod right now? Quick! No time for thinking — only first reactions count.

AW: Coldplay

PP: What is your opinion on the state of the music industry today? Has the internet hindered or helped Yeasayer and other indie bands?

AW: I don’t think we would exist without the internet.  I don’t think Yeasayer would have had the same rise without the exposure and support of bloggers, or webzines, or youtube. The internet was our first press, our first video, our first live recordings. The record industry is a sinking ship, especially the major labels, because of illegal file sharing and their unwillingness to cater to the shifting paradigm of how people access music. There’s this democratization in the music industry, where Independent labels can have as much sway as the Majors, and a small unsigned band can have nearly as much cultural significance as a huge pop act, if their music video or song becomes a meme.

So this shift is a good thing, but it also hurts record sales, which means in order to make a living, I have to tour my ass off. Now touring can be fun, and of course I’m grateful that people want to see my band play, but it’s difficult to make long term life and family plans when the only way you can make a living is if you’re away from home for half your life. So it’s a double edged sword I guess. I wouldn’t exist without the internet, but the internet will eventually destroy me.

PP: Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians/artists?

AW: Work hard, play live as much as possible, try to sound as unique as you can, wear something interesting onstage.

PP: If you weren’t part of a pretty kick-ass band right now, you’d be…?

AW: Working some crappy job and struggling to make people notice how amazing my unsuccessful band is.

PP: What’s the last song that was playing in your head/iPod/general vicinity?

AW: Ken Seeno’s unreleased album

PP: Favorite genre of movies? And do you have a Bollywood fave?

AW: I don’t have a favorite genre, different genre for different moods. Bollywood fave is Sholay for sure. (PP: Mine too! zomg)

PP: And finally, what is the one thing you miss from being a teenager?
AW: My mom’s cooking!

*band photography – Alexander Wagner

Building a winter wardrobe takes hours of relentless searching and pairing until you find pieces that are functional while classy. The worst thing is when you have to pack away your peacoats and gloves until the next winter. Well fear not! Here are some fabulous pieces that you can take from your winter wardrobe and reinvent them into fab summer outfits!

Boots

You spent a good deal of money on your chic boots to help you survive through the winter and now they’re rotting away in the back of your closet. Well pull them back out and pair them with a cute summer dress! Boots are perfect for events like concerts, festivals, and fairs where you want to be comfy but keep it cute. Add some chunky bangles or some Hollywood sunnies to protect your eyes and finish off the look.

Pieces from the ‘Boots Look’ can be found on www.oldnavy.com, www.zappos.com, www.forever21.com, and www.etsy.com.

Blazer

This winter I loved dressing up a casual outfit by throwing a blazer on top of it. Luckily, you can keeping rocking your blazers through the summer by pairing it with a feminine detailed top or a plain tank. Make sure you wear it with shorts so that you don’t die of a heat stroke and add a pair of strappy heels to add a girly edge.

Pieces from the ‘Blazer look’ can be found on www.urbanoutfitters.com, www.modcloth.com, and www.forever21.com.

Flannel

All winter long girls were diving into their boyfriends (or buying the boyfriend looking) flannel shirts. The grunge effect is a perfect summer look that won’t make you break the bank. Find a vintage or message tee and throw it under your favorite flannel shirt. Pair it with a pair of distressed shorts (essential summer piece!) and add a cute hairpin or a hat and you’re ready to go!

Pieces from the ‘Flannel look’ can be found on www.delias.com, www.walmart.com, www.ae.com, www.forever21.com, and www.piperline.com.

Scarf

I think I own too many scarves. That being said, I justify them by using the ever so versatile pieces throughout the year. Scarves are a perfect way to mix patterns and color blocks in the winter. Wear your favorite tank and wrap the scarf around your neck like a cowl and pair them with some great jeggings! (Side note: This is a great outfit to throw on when you’re running late but still need to look great!)

Pieces from the the ‘Scarf look’ can be found at www.asos.com , www.oldnavy.com, www.payless.com, and www.forever21.com.

• Go to the movies! If you really want to avoid the couples (although you’re too cool to care), go during the afternoon. Avoid ‘Valentine’s Day’ (here’s why).
• Dance Party with the girls! Jam out in the living room or go out! Either way, shake that groove thing.
• Get a manicure just for fun. Pretty nails, happy you.
• Relax! Take a bubble bath. Or, spring the dough for a massage.
• Volunteer one morning. This not only helps the community, it helps to take the focus off of you, you, you!
• Make a fancy dinner for you and the girls. Cook something you never have before.
• Go to a local museum – see, learn, and have fun. Many of us are regulars to the museum, but a few hours at the science or art museum can be relaxing and new.
• Clean. Yeah, we said it. Organize, clean, rearrange your room or apartment. You’ll feel oh so much better without the clutter.
• Shop! Well, don’t spend the big bucks to help you climb out of your “depression of being single”. That’s not what a V-Day Fun Chick is about. Shop to a limit and pick out one or two things to add to your wardrobe.

Most of all, have fun, its just another weekend. No big deal!

happy valentines day from the BG Staff!

In the 1980s, The Cosby Show was the most diverse show on television.  In the 90′s, two of NBC’s hit Thursday night comedies, Friends and Seinfeld, were criticized for their whitewashed view of New York.  But it definitely is not the 90s anymore and Zee TV isn’t the only channel to feature Indian actors.   NBC now has Indian characters on all four of its Thursday night comedies.  And Indian actors have popped up on new shows on all major networks this year. 

Maulik Pancholy plays the beleaguered assistant Johnathan on 30 Rock.  Ever protective of his boss Jack (played by Alec Baldwin), Pancholy’s character always offers a bit of comic relief with his frenzied personality.  Pancholy has also starred as the gay drug dealer Sanjay on Weeds.  He is a professionally trained actor as a graduate of Yale Drama School.

As Tom Haverford on Parks and Recreation, 2009 has been South Carolina native Aziz Ansari’s breakout year.  He starred in new king of comedy Judd Apatow’s Funny People, playing Randy. The character is otherwise known as “RAAAANDY,” an energetic stand-up comedian known for his offbeat jokes and outsized personality. The character is so memorable, Ansari is developing a movie starring the character.

Kelly Kapoor, played by Mindy Kaling is one of the most recognizable characters in a large cast of quirky characters on The Office.  Since the show started six years ago, the boy-crazy, gossipy, and celebrity-obsessed customer representative has been making The Office a lot more fun.  Kaling is also a writer for the show and is in talks to develop and star in her own NBC sitcom. 

Community, which premiered this year, features Danny Pudi as Abed, an eccentric film nerd who reveals a new talent each week.  Pudi is half-Indian, half-Polish and has displayed his Polish dancing skills on the talk-show circuit this fall. 

Other new shows which feature Indian characters this year are Glee with Iqbal Theba as Principal Higgins, The Big Bang Theory with Kunal Nayyar as Raj, The Good Wife with Archie Panjabi as Kalinda Sharma, and Royal Pains with Reshma Shetty as Divya Katdare.

Even more projects are in the works — a pilot called Nirvana starring Kal Penn, Outsourced, a comedy about an American sent to work in India, and a US version of the British Comedy The Kumars at No. 42.

These characters are important milestones for Indian Americans in the media.  None of them fit a Western stereotype of Indians — no computer engineers, nerdy doctors, or conservative women.  Thanks to these television shows, the American public is being exposed to a large and influential immigrant group. 

Majical Anjali (a.k.a Anjali Bhatia)

by Pooja Patel

Hi BG Readers! Summer is here and it is beautiful outside! It’s time to update your music playlist and jam out on all your summer excursions.

Looking for a great find? We at BG had the opportunity to chat with none other than UK’s Magical Anjali. You may have heard some of her tunes on the Mean Girls soundtrack or the track Stinging Sitars on a few Samsung Blackjack commercials. We’re sure you’re gonna love her psychedelic melodies and stellar sitar tracks!

BrownGirl: I’ve been a fan of yours for years now. I’m so excited to finally have the opportunity to talk to you! I love your sense of style, both in the music you produce and they way you project yourself. What do you consider your top influences? What inspires you as an artist?

Anjali: Thanks for your compliments! My influences come in all shapes and forms, I love tinkering with vintage keyboards and creating new sounds I also listen to a vast amount of music from all kinds of genres, I love collecting vinyl and sourcing obscure sitar tracks that I can throw into my dj set. I’m influenced by all things esoteric from the pantheon of Hindu Goddesses to weird and wonderful film soundtracks like Kosmos and 2001 Space Odyssey to retro Bollywood. Everytime I travel to a new destination I seem to collect an introspective experience that inspires my music in some way…especially with travels to India.

BG: How would you describe your music? Where did you get your start?

Anjali: Describing ones own music is always a trying task! But I guess it’s quite a varied amalgamation of sounds and flavours with exotic beats and retro flourishes!

I was always in bands and writing songs, I was in an all girl band called Voodoo Queens and we played our first ever gig with only three songs supporting the band Cornershop in London. The legendary late great BBC Radio One DJ John Peel was at the gig and loved our raucous three song set and offered us a Peel session on his radio show on the spot! We had to write a fourth song pretty quick because we were invited into the BBC studios to record four songs for broadcast on his influencial radio show. We were offered a record deal soon after that and I guess that I have been doing music semi-professionally ever since! So I’m always really thankful to John Peel.

BG: Did you always know you wanted to be a musician? As a woman of South Asian descent, how did your parents react when they found out that you didn’t want to pursue a career considered mainly ‘typical’ ? How did you overcome the obstacles you faced with your parents?

Anjali: My father bought me a guitar when I was eleven so I always blame him for getting me into music! However I think he was hoping that I would play cute little classical songs but I got into punk and alternative music! Luckily for me my parents have always been really open minded and encouraged me to follow my creative instincts even though they had to put up with a lot of rebellion in the process.

BG: Have you noticed any adversities in your career because of your background? Or do your Indian roots give you the extra edge that sets you apart from your peers?

Anjali: Luckily I havn’t experienced adversities because of my background if anything it can be an advantage. Having such a rich culture and heritage to dip into is a positive thing and it is great being able to fuse influences from both eastern and western cultures into a sonic tapestry. Having access to my parents Bollywood film soundtracks and indeed being taken to watch the Indian film classics while growing up has been a fabulous influence!

BG: What type of music do you like to listen to? Who are some of your favorite artists?

Anjali: I hate music snobbery and I listen to most things with an open mind and independent ears! Some of my favourite artists are Siouxie and the Banshees, Kate Bush, Bollywood film composer R.D Burman, Alice Coltrane, Kraftwerk and Sonic Youth amongst a multitude of others…

BG: What’s currently playing on your iPod?

Anjali: I havn’t got an iPod, I tend to work with headphones mostly when I’m writing my music and I try and limit my headphone usage for the sake of my bleeding ears! However I’m currently listening to an album by UK artist Nikesh Shukla (aka Yamboy) called “Kidologies And Amazing Fantasies” and I’m also listening to the Grizzly Bear album.

BG: Anything quirky or interesting you’d like to share with our readers?

Anjali: I almost lost my whole album in a computer crash and I hadn’t backed up!! Which is shameful. Data Recovery phoned me to tell me that they had managed to retrieve nothing from my hard drive…I was so distraught and in shock and couldn’t believe it. I had planned a trip to India and was due to leave the next day, I was going on a pilgrimage to the holy mountain Vaishno Devi In Jammu and Kashmir, there is a saying that those who do the tough climb up to the top of the mountain have a wish fulfilled… I got back to London four weeks later and got a call from my friend who had tried to help me retrieve my album, data recovery had called him the day before I arrived home and they had somehow managed to find my album data in the depths of my damaged hard drive!

BG: As a publication geared towards inspiring strong, independent, young woman, do you have anything that you can share with us that would help connect with our readers? How have you risen against the problems you’ve encountered?  Any advice you’d like to offer?

Anjali: I think that if you have a desire to do something that is not necessarily seen as an expected career route it’s important to take a chance and follow your heart. Taking risks is important and being obsessed with just making money is not the be all and end all in life. I think that following a creative path is not easy and you have to be made of stern stuff to follow it through…and be able to live very frugally at times. But there is no point of just dipping a toe in the water, it’s best to just dive right in and with a strong belief and dedication anything is possible! I invest everything in my music. Everything goes straight back into music related subjects from buying vinyl to studio time to purchasing equipment! Ok, I throw in the odd handbag or three but they are most useful for carrying hard drives around too!

BG: I read on your blog that your latest CD is ready. Can you give us an exclusive as to what we can expect in your latest work? How has this latest project differed from your work in the past?

Anjali: It really is a mixed bag of goodies, from midnight down tempo moods to psychedelic guitars and sitars swerving through exotic percussion and electronic beats. There are all kinds of interesting sounds flying around and sweet melodies too! The way this album differs from my past albums is that all the songs were mixed in the same analogue studio whereas in the past tracks were mixed and recorded in a few different places, so I feel as though the album has a more unified sound. I also used a lot more live musicians from live brass, sitars and tablas to lowry organs. I co-produced tracks with Count Dubulah who is a renown World music producer and songwriter. I enjoyed the collaborations and working with talented musicians such as John Eacott who has also played trumpet and flugelhorn on Damon Albarns Monkey Opera and organist Rory More who has just recently worked on a Kanye West production.

Abercrombie & Fitch winter soundtrack photo session

BG: Can you describe what the past few years have been like, with getting exposure on the Mean Girls soundtrack, being featured in the Samsung blackjack commercial awhile back, etc?

Anjali: They have been great opportunities for me and my music, especially coming from an independent background where I never had a huge major record label trying to actively sell my music for me, so for my tracks to have picked up like that is a testament to the fact that I always tried to stay true to what sounds I love creating rather than following trends. It goes to show that opportunities are there for even the most unknown, leftfield artists! In fact being in the niche “market” can sometimes be advantageous because there are not necessarily thousands of other acts that sound like you and you may have more of a chance of your music standing out.

BG: Any plans on performing in the States anytime soon?

Anjali: I’m organizing a set of dj gigs at the moment mostly in Europe but I hope to come over towards the end of the year, Will keep you posted!

BG: What else can we look forward from you in the future?

Anjali: My new album for starters and them some! I’m also working on a few projects at the moment, including composing some instrumental pieces for a short film. So there will be lots of new music to tuck into in the near future!

Check out Anjali’s website to catch glimpse of her fun, exoctic sense of style at: http://www.anjali.org.uk/

You can also sample a few of her amazing tracks on her myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/magicalanjali

]]> http://browngirlmagazine.com/2009/06/sonic-summer-sounds/feed/ 3 http://browngirlmagazine.com/2009/05/summer-make-over-inside-out/ http://browngirlmagazine.com/2009/05/summer-make-over-inside-out/#comments Tue, 26 May 2009 02:09:40 +0000 browngirlmag http://browngirlmagazine.com/?p=988 by Sharmeen Hirani

So, the New Year’s Resolutions didn’t work out so well, did they? Well, now that school’s out for the summer, it’s the perfect time to get back to basics, and make the most of your off-time.

Choose 3-5 promises to make to yourself this summer, stick with your promises, and get ready to meet a sophisticated, fresh and fabulous new you by August!

I promise to:

1) Spend LESS time on Facebook /Twitter/MySpace and get myself out and about! ***

Do I even need to explain this? You know what I’m talking about! Stop unconsciously typing the above web-addresses as soon as you hit your home page (sometimes without thinking), and replace your internet time with the activities below.

2) Finish a book.

Not only does reading a book take your mind off of possible stresses of the day, but it also expands your thinking, improves your memory, and helps you focus better.  I’m not saying pick up Plato’s Republic and read it inside out to get these benefits. Pick a book that you know you’ll enjoy and reap the rewards. Start a book club with your friends and get together each, if that’s the motivation you need. Pick up some yummy treats and have discussions about the latest chapters you’ve read.

Brown Girl Reading List Suggestions:

• Twilight (perfect to read with your girl friends!)
• Angels and Demons (a mind-capturing read)
• He’s Just Not That Into You (also a super fun-read with your friends for those girls’ nights!)
• Pride and Prejudice (for you heartless romantics)

3) Buy a CD or download a song I normally would not buy/ download.

4) Spend some time on creating a unique-to-me playlist that I can jam out to anywhere. I can finally create playlist to work out to, study to, sleep to. Check out the Brown Girl Summer Playlist!

5) Get a haircut and/or try a completely new hair-style.  I won’t be scared. After all I have all summer to grow it out and change it up!

6) Find a style that I like .

Don’t go out and buy those clothes that you see on everyone else. Go out and find a style that you like, not that the world likes. Spend some time to build your own personalized wardrobe. Start with the basics and then get creative! Go to different stores. Try on different ensembles. Play with colors and styles until you find the one that makes you go “OH MY” (in a good way) when you look in that mirror.  Fashion trends will come and go, but personal style stays forever. Find out what your personal style is and strut it!

7) Express myself through art.

Bust out with a smock and that beret you immediately bought two years ago when they were in style for 30 seconds. Find an easel and some colors and paint away, Picasso. If painting’s not your thing, try sketching, photography, pottery, or even writing. Find a place where you can relax and have at it. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at what inspires you and what you end up with.

Have a girl’s night out.

Always the cure to every problem. If going out isn’t your thing, grab some dessert, your favorite magazines, and pop-in “Bride Wars” or any other uber-girly movie with cute clothes and beautiful men.

9) Learn how to play an instrument.

If I can’t find a nice and decent boy to serenade me with his guitar, I’ll do it myself! Excuse me, while I fetch my guitar… okay so I don’t have one yet. But I’ll make sure to find one and learn a few chords to my favorite song!

10) Learn a new dance.

No, not the “Soulja-boy” or the “Stanky-leg” (you may do that on your own time after summer).  Look into salsa, hip-hop, line-dancing, or even classical Indian dance. There’s often free promotional classes offered at gyms or rec centers, especially at the beginning of the summer when schools let out. You don’t have to be good enough to perform on “Dancing with the Stars”, but at least you’ll have the secret satisfaction of knowing that you learned how to shake it (and got a fab workout in!)

11) Watch the news.

It’s time to stop hiding in our own little worlds and look at what is really going on out there. This year is ESPECIALLY a year we’ll want to talk about later.  An African-American man became president. A low budget Bollywood film won the Oscars. An underdog football team made it to the Superbowl, (for you sporty girls).  An economic recession has furiously impacted the entire world.  The time to be up-to-date with the headlines is now. You’ll learn many interesting things and knowledge on current events is an impressive quality through anyone’s eyes!

12) Go to a musical, a play, or a concert.

Find out where your cultural passion lies. You’ll see that it’s so much more exhilarating and energetic to view a live performance than it is to go to a movie or watch a music video at home.  At the same time it’s a great bonding activity to share with your friends, family, and an absolutely great date idea!  Plus, the fancier performances give you an excuse to dress to the nines and look even more beautiful!

13) Engage in a community service project.

You’d be surprised how many non-profit organizations look for volunteers to help over the summer. Whether its for a couple of weeks or a day, any amount of work makes a difference in someone’s life.  Volunteer at a soup kitchen, visit a children’s shelter, help build a house or paint a fence. You may even do something simple like clean your closet and gather up items for donations. A little time goes a long way!

14) Drink more water , take vitamins, and don’t forget the sunscreen!

When you’re on your way to the new you, don’t forget that the scorching hot weather tends to make you dehydrated and fatigued. You need all the energy you can get if you want to accomplish these endeavors! Besides water plays a huge role in keeping you from getting sick, clearing up your skin, and detoxifiying your body. Even though you’re brown, sunscreen can go a long way…

*** The first promise is a prerequisite to your entire summer makeover, no exceptions granted!