Author: DA
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Reflections on the Self-Respect Movement and its Legacies Conference (Oxford, 4–5 September)
Earlier this week, I had the immense privilege of attending The Self-Respect Movement and its Legacies conference at Oxford. The event was nothing short of historic, graced by the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, M.K. Stalin, who unveiled a portrait of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, a towering institution—an uncompromising voice that continues to resonate even a century…
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Neera: History and the Making of A Heritage Drink
Tapping Tradition: Neera as a Health Drink in India In recent years, India has witnessed a surge in interest in traditional foods and beverages—part of a broader global shift toward organic, sustainable, and nutritious food and drink choices. “neera…a heritage powerhouse“ A drink that has been quietly making a comeback as a heritage powerhouse is neera…
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“Coolies’ Chorus” & “Enjoy Enjaami”
Folk Music in Global Perspective Running the whole gamut of human experience and emotion, folk songs can be upbeat and energetic, angry, melancholic, or soothing and nostalgic. Found in almost every corner of the world, they resonate as records of culture, heritage, and identity, preserving – in their notes – the pulse of the people…
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Caste, Class, Country Liquor
Cultures of Control & Resistance “…alcoholic beverages made using traditional methods and local ingredients supplied by the country…” Country liquor – heard of it? Also known as indigenous liquor, the term refers to alcoholic beverages made using traditional methods and local ingredients supplied by “the country.” Everyday items used in cooking – jaggery, molasses, and grains like rice…
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Hooch in History, Hooch as History
From Hoochinoo to Hooch: Alcohol, Race, Power “…a layered history of race, erasure, and colonial power…” Today, ”hooch” is shorthand for cheap, illegal – frequently adulterated – alcohol. The word brings forth images of liquor cooked up in a dingy back shed. Globally often used to refer to the devastation caused by drinking spurious liquor…
Darinee Alagirisamy 