By Desis, for Desis and Everyone Else!!
What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
Did you ever wonder:
What is Indian culture like? Learn more!
Interesting facts about India you didn’t know about!
Explore Indian customs.
Traveling to India? You are in for a treat – Explore here!
Here are a few articles from this site – use the menu at the very top of this page to discover many more…
Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Mangos or Mangoes!
Mangos or Mangoes?
Both “mangos” and “mangoes” are correct spellings.
The plural of mango can be spelled either way. The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) lists both spellings as acceptable. The OED also notes that the spelling “mangoes” is more common in British English, while the spelling “mangos” is more common in American English.
Ultimately, the choice of spelling is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer.
Now that we got the semantics out of the way, let’s learn more about these fruit!
What are mangos (or mangoes)?
Yes, let’s get that out of the way too. Just in case! Hey, you never know.
A mango is a tropical fruit known for its sweet and juicy flavor. It is considered the “king of fruits” due to its delicious taste and rich nutritional profile. Mangoes have a distinctive oval or elongated shape and are typically yellow, orange, or red in color when ripe. The fruit has a smooth, thin skin and a large, flat seed in the center.
How do you eat it? Raw or Cooked?
Mangoes can be eaten both raw and ripe, depending on what you like and in some cases cook it – add it to dishes. Here are some common ways to enjoy mangoes:
- Eating it raw:
- Ripe mangoes can be eaten raw by simply peeling off the skin and slicing the fruit. The flesh is juicy and sweet, and you can eat it directly or cut it into cubes.
- It’s common to enjoy ripe mangoes as a refreshing snack or dessert during the summer season.
- Or in a variety of dishes, drinks or whatever:
- Mangoes are widely used in various culinary creations. They can be added to fruit salads, smoothies, and juices for a burst of flavor.
- Mangoes are also used in ice creams, sorbets, and milkshakes to add a creamy and fruity element.
- In savory dishes, green or unripe mangoes are used to make tangy and spicy chutneys, pickles, or as a souring agent in curries, salads, and salsas.
- Cooking or processing:
- While ripe mangoes are typically eaten fresh, some recipes may involve cooking or processing the fruit. For example, mangoes can be used to make mango puree, which can be used as a base for sauces, desserts, or baked goods.
- In some cuisines, mangoes are used in cooked dishes like curries or stews, where the fruit adds a touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
The taste and texture of mangoes vary depending on the variety and ripeness. Ripe mangoes are soft, fragrant, and sweet, while green or unripe mangoes are firm, tangy, and slightly sour. Both ripe and unripe mangoes have their own uses and can be enjoyed in different ways.
Where did Mangoes come from?
The mango, scientifically known as Mangifera indica, is a tropical fruit that originates from the Indian subcontinent. It is believed to have been cultivated in South Asia for over 4,000 years.
The fruit’s popularity and cultivation spread throughout the centuries, facilitated by trade routes and human migration.
Where do mangoes grow?
The mango tree is well-adapted to warm, tropical climates and is now grown in many parts of the world, including Southeast Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
Mango trees require a warm climate with temperatures between 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit) to thrive.
They prefer well-drained soil and are often found in regions with distinct wet and dry seasons, as this helps promote flowering and fruiting.
The fruit itself is known for its sweet, juicy flesh and a wide range of vibrant colors, including shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Today, mangoes are widely cultivated in countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Mexico, Brazil, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Each region has its own varieties, flavors, and characteristics, making mangoes a beloved fruit worldwide.
How did mangoes spread all over?
The spread of mangoes to South America, Mexico, and other parts of the world can be attributed to various factors, including historical trade routes, human migration, and intentional cultivation.
While specific routes or data might be challenging to pinpoint, here are some general accounts of how mangoes made their way to different regions:
- Colonial Exploration and Trade: During the era of European colonial exploration, sailors and traders traveled across the globe, establishing trade routes between continents. It is believed that Portuguese explorers played a significant role in introducing mangoes to Brazil in the 16th century. Similarly, Spanish colonizers may have introduced mango cultivation to Mexico and other parts of Latin America.
- Cultural Exchange and Migration: Human migration has played a crucial role in spreading agricultural products across different regions. It is likely that mangoes were carried by migrants, either intentionally or unintentionally, as they traveled to new lands. For example, Indian indentured laborers brought mangoes to the Caribbean, including countries like Jamaica and Trinidad, during the 19th century.
- Botanical Exchanges: The exchange of plant specimens and seeds between botanists, horticulturists, and plant enthusiasts has also contributed to the spread of mangoes. As scientific exploration and botanical gardens grew in popularity, mango trees were transported and cultivated in new locations. The Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew, England, played a significant role in this exchange, introducing mangoes to various parts of the world.
The above information is based on historical records and plausible theories.
Earliest known usage of mangoes
The earliest known mention of mangoes in literature dates back to ancient India.
The Sanskrit text called the “Rigveda,” composed between 1500 and 1200 BCE, contains references to mangoes.
The Rigveda describes mangoes as one of the most delightful fruits, highlighting their juicy pulp and sweet flavor.
The Sanskrit text called the “Rigveda,” composed between 1500 and 1200 BCE, contains references to mangoes.
In different areas of the world, mangoes have been mentioned in various ancient texts:
- India:
- Rigveda (1500-1200 BCE): The Rigveda, one of the oldest religious texts in ancient Indian literature, contains references to mangoes. It describes mangoes as delightful fruits with juicy pulp and a sweet taste.
- Ramayana (composed around 500 BCE): The Ramayana, an ancient Indian epic, mentions mangoes in several instances. It describes mango orchards, the allure of their fragrance, and depicts mangoes as a symbol of abundance and prosperity.
- Southeast Asia:
- The ancient civilizations of Southeast Asia, such as the Khmer and Thai kingdoms, also revered mangoes. Ramakien (Thai adaptation of Ramayana): The Ramakien, the Thai version of the Ramayana, incorporates mangoes into its narrative. Mangoes are depicted as part of the cultural context, scenery, and symbolism within the epic.
- Persia (ancient Iran):
- Persian Poetry: Persian poets have often referenced mangoes in their works. Notable among them is Omar Khayyam (1048-1131 CE), a renowned Persian poet, who mentions mangoes in his poetry. He describes the beauty of mangoes and their desirability.
- Arab World:
- Arabic Poetry: Mangoes are mentioned in Arabic poetry, reflecting their popularity and appeal. Al-Mutanabbi (915-965 CE), a famous Arab poet, praised mangoes in his poetry for their lusciousness and fragrance.
- Europe:
- The Crusaders returning from the Middle East brought back tales of exotic fruits, including mangoes, to Europe. Marco Polo’s Travels (13th century): The Italian explorer Marco Polo, in his travel accounts, mentioned mangoes during his journeys to India and Southeast Asia. He described mangoes as delicious fruits with a unique taste and vibrant colors, introducing Europeans to this exotic fruit.
These are some of the earliest known mentions of mangoes in different regions of the world. The fruit’s popularity and spread throughout history can be attributed to its delicious taste, rich cultural significance, and the efforts of traders, explorers, and cultivators who helped introduce mangoes to various parts of the globe.
The journey of mangoes from the Indian subcontinent to the Caribbean before the arrival of European explorers
How did mangoes go to The Caribbean islands?
The journey of mangoes from the Indian subcontinent to the Caribbean before the arrival of European explorers is a fascinating example of how plants and their cultivation spread through human migration and trade networks.
It is believed that mangoes were introduced to the Caribbean by early Austronesian seafarers who were skilled navigators and traders. These seafaring communities, originating from Southeast Asia, had established extensive trade routes across the Indian Ocean, connecting various regions including the Indian subcontinent.
As these Austronesian sailors ventured farther, they reached the Indian subcontinent and encountered the mango tree, recognizing its delectable fruit and its potential value for trade and cultivation. The sailors likely carried mango seeds or seedlings on their voyages, deliberately or unintentionally, as provisions or as gifts exchanged during their trade activities.
Over time, these seafarers navigated their way to the islands of the Caribbean, including present-day Jamaica, Cuba, and Hispaniola (Haiti and the Dominican Republic). It is believed that they brought mango seeds or seedlings with them and planted them in the fertile soils of the Caribbean islands.
Once established, the mango trees thrived in the favorable tropical climate of the Caribbean. They adapted to the local environment and gradually spread throughout the region, establishing themselves as a valuable fruit crop. The fruit’s delicious taste, vibrant colors, and versatility in culinary applications made it popular among the local communities.
How do we know this?
There is evidence to suggest that mangoes were present in the Caribbean prior to European contact.
Historical records and accounts from early explorers and travelers, such as Christopher Columbus and Gonzalo Fernández de Oviedo, mention the existence of mangoes in the Caribbean during their expeditions in the late 15th and early 16th centuries. These accounts indicate that mangoes were already being cultivated and consumed by the indigenous populations of the Caribbean islands.
Additionally, linguistic connections between languages spoken in the Indian subcontinent and certain Caribbean islands further support the hypothesis of pre-Columbian mango presence. The similarity in the names of mangoes across different languages, such as “manga” in Arawak (an indigenous language of the Caribbean) and “mangai” in an Indian languages, suggests an ancient association between the fruit and the region.
The word “mango” comes from the Tamil word “mangai”. In other south Indian languages, mango is called:
- Malayalam: മാമ്പഴം (maṃpazham)
- Tamil: மாங்காய் (maṅkkāy or mangai)
- Telugu: మామిడి (māmidi)
The English word “mango” is thought to have originated from the Portuguese word “manga”, which in turn is derived from the Malay word “mangga”. The Malay word is thought to have originated from the Tamil word “mangai”.
Archaeological evidence, though limited, has also uncovered mango seeds and pollen in pre-Columbian archaeological sites in the Caribbean, indicating the presence of mangoes before European arrival.
Fascinating, is it not?
Top dozen types of Mangoes in India
This is going to be a very controversial list, but blame google’s searches for this below list. If you don’t see your favorite mango variety on this list, let us know what it’s called and maybe send us a basket of those mangoes so we can do our own research :).
India is known for its diverse varieties of mangoes, each with its unique characteristics and flavors. Here are a dozen popular mango varieties from different parts of the country:
Alphonso (Hapus)
Originating from Maharashtra and Gujarat, Alphonso is often considered the king of mangoes. It has a rich, creamy texture, and a sweet, aromatic flavor.
Kesar
Also known as Gir Kesar, this variety is primarily grown in Gujarat. Kesar mangoes are small to medium-sized with a golden-yellow color, a distinct aroma, and a sweet-tangy taste.
Langra
Hailing from Uttar Pradesh, Langra mangoes are medium-sized with a greenish-yellow skin. They are known for their fiberless flesh, juicy texture, and sweet taste.
Dasheri
Native to Uttar Pradesh, Dasheri mangoes are medium-sized with a greenish-yellow skin and a sweet, aromatic flavor. They have a fiberless and juicy pulp.
TotapurI
Widely cultivated in the southern states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, Totapuri mangoes are large-sized with a distinctive beak-like shape. They have a tangy flavor and are often used for making pickles and chutneys. It is a popular choice for eating fresh or making juice.
Badami
Grown in Karnataka, Badami mangoes are similar to Alphonso mangoes in terms of appearance and taste. They have a sweet flavor and a smooth, buttery texture. (see here)
Neelam
Popular in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, Neelam mangoes are medium to large-sized with a yellow skin and a sweet, juicy pulp and long shelf life. They are often used for making mango desserts and beverages. (see here)
Himsagar
Primarily grown in West Bengal, Himsagar mangoes are known for their pleasant aroma, fiberless pulp, and sweet taste. They have a yellow skin with green patches (see here)
Banganapalli (Benishan)
Cultivated in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, Banganapalli mangoes are large-sized with a golden-yellow skin. They are sweet, fiberless, and have a unique flavor. (see here)
Malda
Hailing from the Malda district in West Bengal, these mangoes are small to medium-sized with a greenish-yellow skin and a sweet, juicy pulp. They are often used for making mango-based desserts.
Mulgoba
Native to Tamil Nadu, Mulgoba mangoes are medium-sized with a greenish-yellow skin and a rich, sweet flavor. They are known for their excellent taste and aroma.
Sindhu
Grown in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, Sindhu mangoes are medium-sized with a yellowish-green skin. They have a tangy-sweet taste and are commonly used for making mango-based dishes and beverages.
It’s important to note that mango varieties can vary within regions due to factors like climate, soil conditions, and local cultivation practices. Each region may have its own local favorites and specialty mango varieties.
How do you eat a Mango?
Again this is a controversial topic! Everyone has an opinion on this. So instead of going into all of those here is a video and you can see for yourself.
A Spicy Business!
Spices were big business back in the day! And business was booming. We are talking about ancient times here, not like a few years ago. Read below to learn all about the ancient spice trade and how far and wide the Indian spices were in demand. Once you read this – it should become clear why everyone wanted to get a clear trade route to get the spices and control the routes and the trade of spices! You could say things got spicy as more people wanted a lion’s share of the spice business.
Trade with Ancient Rome
There is evidence that the Romans had trade relations with India as early as the 1st century BCE, as documented in the writings of the Roman historian Pliny the Elder.
Pepper and ginger grow wild in their country, yet here we buy them by weight, using so much gold and silver!
Pliny the Elder
Pliny the Elder was a Roman author and naturalist who lived during the 1st century AD. In his work “Naturalis Historia,” he wrote extensively about the trade between Rome and India. He described the Indian Ocean as “the most peaceful of all seas” and wrote about the trade winds that facilitated travel between India and the Red Sea.
Pliny also wrote about the high value of Indian spices and the Roman empire’s demand for them. He noted that the Romans had to pay in gold and silver to acquire Indian spices, which were highly prized for their taste and medicinal properties.
He also wrote about Indian textiles, pearls, and precious stones that were highly prized by the Romans.
The Roman trade with India was primarily conducted by Indian merchants who traveled by sea along the Red Sea and Indian Ocean trade routes
Historical accounts of 2000+ years ago
Pliny’s accounts provide valuable insight into the economic and cultural exchange between Rome and India during the ancient period.
According to historical accounts, the Roman trade with India was primarily conducted by Indian merchants who traveled by sea along the Red Sea and Indian Ocean trade routes. The trade was driven by a demand for spices and other luxury goods that were not available in the Mediterranean region.
Some notable examples of Roman figures who were known to have been interested in spices and Indian goods include Julius Caesar, who is said to have been a fan of Indian pepper, and Cleopatra, who was known to have imported large quantities of spices into Egypt.
The Roman trade with India is believed to have continued for several centuries, although the exact duration of the trading partnership is not known. Indian spices and other goods were highly sought after in Rome, and the trade was likely a major source of income for Indian merchants.
In terms of the goods that were imported from India to Italy and Greece, spices were certainly among the most highly valued items. Other Indian goods that were popular in Rome included textiles, ivory, and precious stones.
It is not clear what the Indians were taking back from Italy and Greece, as there are few records of the goods that were exported from Rome to India during this period. However, it is likely that the Romans would have exported a range of goods to India, including metals, wine, and olive oil, which were highly prized in the Mediterranean region.
Trade with Ancient Greeks
There is evidence of trade between ancient Greeks and Indians, particularly in the Hellenistic period (323 BCE-31 BCE) when Alexander the Great’s conquests brought the Greeks in contact with various Indian kingdoms.
The Greeks were interested in Indian goods such as textiles, precious stones, ivory, and spices, and Indian exports to Greece included goods such as indigo, pepper, ginger, and cinnamon. The Greek historian Megasthenes, who lived in India during the 4th century BCE, wrote about the Indian exports in his book “Indika.” Greek historian Strabo also mentioned Indian spices in his work “Geographica,” describing their uses in cooking and medicine.
The Greeks also exported their own goods to India, such as wine, olive oil, and textiles. Some Greek colonies were established in northwest India, and archaeological evidence suggests that there was trade between the two regions, with Greek coins and pottery found in India and Indian goods found in Greek settlements.
The Greek-Indian trade relationship was not as significant as the Roman-Indian trade, but there is evidence of cultural and economic exchange between the two regions.
Trade with Ancient Egypt
There is evidence of trade between India and Egypt dating back to ancient times. The Egyptians were known to trade with India for spices, aromatic woods, textiles, and other luxury goods. The ancient Egyptians were also known to have used Indian spices in their embalming practices.
Archaeological excavations at several sites in Egypt have revealed the presence of Indian spices, including black pepper, ginger, and cardamom, which were imported from India. These spices were highly prized by the Egyptians, who used them not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal and religious purposes.
One of the most significant pieces of evidence for Indian-Egyptian trade is the Periplus of the Erythraean Sea, a Greek manuscript that dates back to the 1st century CE. The Periplus describes the trade routes between India and the Red Sea, and provides a detailed account of the commodities traded between India and Egypt, including spices, precious stones, ivory, and textiles.
In addition, several ancient Egyptian texts and inscriptions have been found that mention the importation of Indian spices. For example, the temple of Kom Ombo, which dates back to the Ptolemaic era, contains a relief that depicts the transport of Indian spices, including cinnamon and cassia, from the Red Sea to the temple.
Records or artifacts from those times
There have been several archaeological findings that indicate the trade relationship between India and the ancient Roman and Greek civilizations.
One example of such a finding is the discovery of Roman coins in India, particularly in the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. These coins, dating back to the 1st century BCE, suggest that Roman traders were present in India during that time.
Another important archaeological discovery is the ancient port of Muziris, located in present-day Kerala, which was a major trading center for the Romans and Greeks. Excavations at the site have uncovered several artifacts, including amphorae (a type of container used to transport goods), pottery, and coins, all of which point to a thriving trade relationship between India and the ancient world.
Additionally, the discovery of a Roman glass bowl in Pompeii, Italy, that was made in India is further evidence of the trade relationship between the two civilizations.
In terms of written records, the ancient Greek historian Herodotus mentions the trade relationship between India and the Greeks in his writings, specifically in his book “The Histories.” He writes about the various goods that were traded, including spices, textiles, and precious stones.
Coins from India, Egypt, Greece and Rome
Coins from ancient India, Egypt, Greece, and Rome provide evidence of trade between these regions. For example, Indian coins from the Kushan period (1st-3rd centuries CE) have been found in archaeological excavations in Egypt, suggesting that there was direct trade between the two regions during this time.
Similarly, Greek coins have been found in archaeological sites in India, particularly in the northwestern region, which was once part of the Hellenistic world. These coins indicate that there was some level of trade and exchange between the two regions during the Hellenistic period (4th-1st centuries BCE).
Coins from the Roman period also provide evidence of trade with India. Roman coins have been found in southern India, particularly in the region of Tamil Nadu. These coins suggest that there was direct trade between Rome and India during the early centuries CE, with Indian spices being one of the major commodities exchanged.
The symbols and inscriptions on these coins also provide insights into the political and economic conditions of these regions at the time. For example, some Indian coins from the Kushan period depict rulers such as Kanishka and Vasudeva, who were known for their patronage of Buddhism and the arts.
There is no direct evidence on the costs of spices in these regions at the time, as there are no surviving records or accounts of the prices.
However, we can infer from the fact that spices were traded over long distances that they were valuable commodities that commanded a high price in these regions. It is likely that spices were exchanged for other goods, such as precious metals, textiles, and other luxury items, or simply being directly purchased with gold or silver.
Diabetes & Desis
The Historical Link Between British Colonialism and Diabetes in Indians
Did you know that India’s diabetes problem has roots deeper than just diet or genetics? There’s an unexpected historical culprit lurking behind this health crisis: British colonialism. Yes, British rule over the Indian subcontinent didn’t just reshape its politics and economy—it also left a lasting impact on the health of generations of Indians. Let’s explore how the shadow of colonialism, through famines and epigenetic changes, continues to affect the health of Indians today.
A Shocking Surge in Major Famines under the British
During British colonial rule, India faced an unprecedented rise in famines. While droughts were always a risk, British policies turned them into disasters. Between 1858 and 1947, the period known as the British Raj, millions of lives were lost to starvation. The colonizers were more concerned with exporting resources than feeding the local population.
Conservatively, over 25+ million Indian lives were lost aided greatly by the policies of the British East India Company – which was licensed and supported by the British crown
SOURCE
British East India Company rule: 1757-1858
British Crown rule (British Raj): 1858-1947
Take the Great Famine of 1876-1878 as an example—it ravaged southern India, claiming an estimated 5 to 11 million lives. Another horrifying example is the Bengal Famine of 1943, during which over 3 million people perished due to severe malnutrition. And here’s the kicker: it wasn’t just natural droughts causing this. British policies played a huge role(The Daily Star)(YouTube).
British Policies and the Famine Tragedies
One of the most shocking aspects is that British policies during World War II made things worse. When India pleaded for emergency food supplies, Winston Churchill’s government diverted essential resources to fuel the war effort, leaving millions to starve. Imagine this: while India was facing famine, rice continued to be exported from the country!
Timeline of major famines in India during British rule – Wikipedia
In fact, a study published in Global and Planetary Change shows that before British rule, there were 0.84 famines per century, but during the British Raj, that number skyrocketed to 2.83 famines per century—a 236% increase (The Daily Star).
Epigenetics and Starvation Adaptation
Now, this is where things get even more interesting. Epigenetics is the study of how environmental factors, like famine, affect gene expression. Essentially, the trauma of these famines left an imprint on Indian DNA. The result? Indian bodies adapted to conserve energy in times of scarcity, which made them more efficient at storing fat. While this was a survival mechanism back then, it now makes Indians more susceptible to modern diseases like type 2 diabetes (Sputnik India).
Surviving even just one famine has a multi-generational effect. Studies show that individuals who lived through famines passed on genetic traits that increased the risk of diabetes in their descendants (Sputnik India).
Survival Adaptations and Diabetes Risk
So, how does this work? When the body is adapted to survive on minimal food, it holds onto energy—think of it as your body going into “survival mode.” But in today’s world of food abundance, this adaptation can be harmful. Indians, who are genetically wired to store energy efficiently, now struggle with high blood sugar levels, leading to a higher risk of diabetes. It’s like the body is still preparing for the next famine that never comes (The Daily Star)(Sputnik India).
The Modern Challenge
Fast forward to today, and we see a strange mismatch. While food scarcity is no longer a widespread issue, the genetic adaptation to starvation still exists in Indian populations. And with two-thirds of packaged foods containing added sugar, it’s no wonder that diabetes rates are soaring. Indians are now facing a double-edged sword: genetic predisposition combined with modern dietary habits that work against them (Sputnik India).
Lifestyle Choices & Decolonizing Health Research
Now, while we can’t change our genetic makeup, there are steps Indians can take to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. One promising solution is to revisit traditional health practices like Ayurveda, yoga, and holistic diets. These time-tested methods emphasize balance and can help manage health risks.
It’s also crucial to decolonize health research. The unique health needs of diverse ethnicities like South Asians need to be acknowledged in modern medicine. The rise in diabetes calls for culturally sensitive approaches to health advice, especially in light of rising insulin costs (Sputnik India).
Lasting Genetic Legacy of Famines
The legacy of British colonialism in India goes beyond politics—it’s embedded in the very DNA of the population. The famines caused by colonial policies have left a genetic footprint that increases the risk of diabetes in Indians today. But with the right understanding of history, epigenetics, and a return to balanced, traditional lifestyles, Indians can work toward reducing this burden.
It’s a journey deeply rooted in the past, but with hope for a healthier future.
FAQs
1. How did British colonialism contribute to diabetes in India?
- British policies led to severe famines, which caused genetic adaptations that make Indians more prone to diabetes today.
2. What is the epigenetic link between famines and diabetes?
- The experience of starvation during famines altered gene expression in survivors, making them and their descendants more efficient at storing fat, which increases diabetes risk.
3. How many people died in the Bengal Famine of 1943?
- Over 3 million people died due to malnutrition during the Bengal Famine, exacerbated by British wartime policies.
4. Can traditional Indian health practices help manage diabetes?
- Yes, practices like Ayurveda and yoga promote balance and can help manage the risk of type 2 diabetes by focusing on holistic health.
5. Why are South Asians more prone to diabetes?
- Genetic factors stemming from historical famines, coupled with modern diets high in sugar, contribute to the higher rates of diabetes among South Asians.
6. What can be done to reduce the risk of diabetes in Indians?
- Embracing a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and revisiting traditional health practices can help mitigate the risk.
Sources:
How British colonialism increased diabetes in south Asians
How History Still Weighs Heavy On South Asian Bodies Today
Davis, Mike. “Late Victorian Holocausts: El Niño Famines and the Making of the Third World.” Verso, 2001. In his book – Davis argues that the El Niño famines that occurred in India, China, and Brazil in the late 19th century were not simply natural disasters, but were also caused by British imperialism and capitalist globalization. He shows how British colonial policies, such as land taxes and the export of food, made it difficult for people to cope with the famines.
Basu, S. (2016). ‘Bengal Tiger and British Lion: An Account of the Bengal Famine of 1943.’ The Journal of Peasant Studies, 43(2), 413-441.
Ramachandran, A., et al. (2010). ‘Increased incidence of gestational diabetes with increasing age in the Chennai Urban Population: Results of a 13 year study.’ Diabetologia, 53(9), 1907-1914.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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