A Telugu Maharashtrian
Growing up in Pune, my childhood was a beautiful amalgamation of Telugu and Marathi customs. At home, my family celebrated Telugu festivals with fervor, savoring traditional dishes like pulihora, pappu, and gongura pachadi. My evenings were often spent perfecting Bharatnatyam steps, reciting Telugu poems, and watching larger-than-life Tollywood movies.
However, once I stepped out of home, I was immersed in the Marathi way of life. My school had a strong Marathi language influence, and I found myself celebrating Ganesh Chaturthi, Makar Sankranti, and Gudi Padwa with the same enthusiasm as the Telugu festivals at home.
Despite the richness of my dual heritage, I often felt a sense of displacement. I grappled with questions about my identity, feeling as though I had to choose between being Maharashtrian or South Indian. This internal conflict lingered through my adolescence and early adulthood, casting a shadow over my sense of self.
Finding My Place: The Move to Ireland
At the age of 26, my life took a significant turn when I moved to Ireland for study and work. This move not only broadened my horizons but also introduced me to the Marathi Mandal Ireland community—a vibrant group dedicated to preserving and celebrating Marathi culture abroad.
Surrounded by people who shared my Maharashtrian roots, I began to embrace the Marathi aspects of my identity more openly. I participated in community events, performed Bharatanatyam at various cultural festivals, and enjoyed the camaraderie of those who understood my unique background.
Embracing a Dual Identity
Through my involvement with the Marathi Mandal Ireland, I came to a profound realization: my identity was not something to be compartmentalized or simplified. I was both Telugu and Maharashtrian, and the richness of my dual heritage was something to be celebrated, not shied away from.
The community’s acceptance and appreciation of my diverse background helped me see my cultural blend as a unique strength. My dual heritage became a bridge rather than a barrier, connecting me with others and enriching my life in ways I had never anticipated.
Today, I stand as a confident and proud representative of my dual heritage. My journey from Pune to Ireland has taught me the value of embracing all facets of my identity. I now see myself not as torn between two cultures, but as a living testament to the beauty of cultural diversity.
