Page 69 - MASALA Magazine Vol.15 Issue 6 | August - September 2024

PARVEENA PASRICHA | Vice Principal
“Pizza,” said one student. “A burger,” said another. “Krapao tom
yum khai dao,” said the third. Immediately, I turned around to
listen in on what students were craving to eat that morning.
Growing up as a Thai-Indian, my life has been a rich tapestry
of cultures, flavours, and languages. My unique influences have
provided me with an invaluable edge in the global landscape,
blending the best of two vibrant worlds. This cultural synergy is
a gift I carry with pride and joy, one that has shaped my identity
and professional journey.
As a vice principal at a school in Southern California, my Thai-
Indian background has been particularly impactful. Recently, we
hosted a group of Thai exchange students, and the experience was
profoundly heartwarming for all involved. When they arrived, wide-
eyed and full of excitement, I greeted them in Thai. Their faces
lit up with surprise and relief, a connection immediately forged
by the familiar sound of their mother tongue in an unexpected
place, from an unexpected face.
This moment reminded me of the power of language and cultural
connection. To look Indian, but speak Thai fluently, often leaves
people pleasantly puzzled. It’s an icebreaker, a conversation starter,
and most importantly, a bridge. My ability to converse in Thai,
Punjabi, and English has opened doors and hearts alike, creating
bonds that transcend geographical boundaries.
In my role at the school, I often draw upon these cultural elements
to create an inclusive environment. The students benefit from
a global perspective, and my background allows me to relate to
and understand their diverse experiences. Whether it’s organising
multicultural events or simply being a comforting presence, my
Thai-Indian heritage plays a pivotal role in fostering a sense of
community.
From being able to order Thai food more authentically at a local
Thai restaurant to pairing yellow daal with krapao gai in my own
cooking, my upbringing allows me to bridge cultures, creating
connections and understanding in a world that thrives on diversity.
The strength of this diversity is one that I cherish deeply and strive
to pass on to my daughter, showing her the beauty of a world united
in its differences.

JESSY PASRICHA | Business Owner

Living in Thailand from the age of seven to 13 was more than just
an adventure – it was a transformative journey that shaped my
identity as a young Sikh boy. For me, these six years were marked
by growth, discovery, and the forging of a deep sense of identity When my family moved back to the US, going between Los
and confidence, particularly in relation to wearing my turban. Angeles and New Jersey, the transition felt challenging. In my
new school, I faced bullying and discrimination for wearing my
Upon moving to Thailand, I was enrolled in Thai Sikh International turban, even from fellow Sikh boys. It was a stark contrast to the
School. This school became more than just an academic institution; acceptance and encouragement I had experienced in Thailand.
it marked the start of my journey of embracing my religion. However, the strength and resilience I had cultivated during my
The school’s environment provided me with the discipline and years in Thailand saw me through. I stood my ground, refusing
knowledge that would become the anchor of my self-assurance. In a to let ignorance and prejudice force me to abandon my turban.
world where looking different often makes one a target of curiosity
or ridicule, the support from my peers and teachers at school and Looking back, I am immensely grateful for my time in Thailand.
community was invaluable. They helped me see my turban as a Today, I wear my turban with pride, not only as a symbol of
symbol of pride; a badge of honour. This constant reinforcement Sikhism, but also as a testament to the journey I have undertaken.
from school and home helped me gain the confidence I needed to The confidence I gained during those formative years has been
wear my turban proudly and stand firm in my identity, regardless instrumental in helping me navigate challenges in all aspects of
of where I was in the world. life, including helping me with raising my two-year-old daughter.

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