SEEMA October Issue 2023

SIGHTS AND DELIGHTS OF DIWALI MORE WOMEN ARE TURNING TO IVF

Anita Chatterjee

THE VISIONARY BEHIND A-GAME PUBLIC RELATIONS IS SHAPING THE CAREERS OF SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES AND BRANDS

MEET OUR CONTRIBUTORS

FOUNDER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

SEEMA KUMAR

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EDITOR

JESSICA DOWNEY

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SAJID MOINUDDIN

DESIGN

HB DESIGN

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

ROHINI KAPUR

WRITERS

MAUREEN PETROSKY

ABHIJIT MASIH

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BINDU GOPAL RAO LINDSEY GALLOWAY

BRAND PARTNERSHIPS, DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGY ANJALI MANIAM

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SEEMA™ ISSUE 10 | OCTOBER 2023

EMPOWERING SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN GLOBALLY SEEMA KUMAR, FOUNDER

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The Light October way, this

As we welcome the crisp air and vibrant colors of October, I am thrilled to present to you another inspiring issue of SEEMA. This month, our pages are filled with stories, perspectives, and insights that celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of South Asian women across the globe.

I n this issue’s cover story, we shine a spotlight on the extraordinary journey of Anita Chatterjee, the visionary founder of A-Game Public Relations. Anita’s story is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Her pioneering spirit has not only reshaped the landscape of public relations but also inspired countless individuals in the industry and beyond. Join us as we delve into the remarkable life and achievements of Anita Chatterjee, a true trailblazer who continues to redefine the game in the world of PR. I n the Nourish section, we celebrate the cherished tradition of chai, exploring its rich history and the art of

crafting the perfect cup. We also embark on a culinary journey, as we showcase the modern Indian cuisine served at the renowned Goa in New York restaurant.

We delve into the profound impact of stereotypes on our daily lives with the insights of motivational speaker, Smita Tharoor. How stereotypes shape our perceptions and influence our choices, and discover how recognizing and challenging these assumptions can empower us to lead more authentic and fulfilling lives.

A s we embrace the spirit of Diwali, our special features bring you a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Our fashion expert weighs in on what she is looking to buy to celebrate the festival. In our culinary journey, we present ‘A Three-Course Diwali Meal with a Twist.’ Indulge your taste buds as we explore innovative takes on traditional dishes, elevating your Diwali dining experience to new heights. As the festival of lights approaches, we also share delightful ways to savor the festivities with delicious and health-conscious treats that retain the spirit of sweetness.

I n our Breathe section, we tackle pressing issues and challenges that often remain shrouded in stigma and misinformation. Despite advancements in awareness and treatment, the stigma surrounding breast cancer persists. We shed light on the myths and misinformation that hinder progress in early detection and survivorship. We delve into the underdiagnosed world of ADHD, a condition that affects individuals across ages. Lastly, we explore the concept of ‘Hidden Fat,’ shedding light on the lessvisible aspects of health.

I n a special feature, we look at a crucial aspect of women’s healthcare - family planning. In today’s world, an increasing number of women are opting for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) as a means to shape

their family’s future. However, alongside the science and innovation that IVF offers, stigmas and misconceptions persist. Join us as we engage in a candid and informative conversation about reproductive health, choices, and empowerment.

I have worked tirelessly to curate a selection of thoughtprovoking articles, inspiring interviews, and captivating visuals to engage and empower you. I hope that this October issue brings warmth and inspiration to your life.

• Seema Kumar, Founder, SEEMA Network •

M. CLARK VISIONS

It’s in the Cards

Diwali card parties bring a fun energy to the holidays. Here’s how to make yours a success.

Georgia on My Mind

The state declares October as Hindu Heritage Month

Enduring Partnerships

President Biden attends the G20 Summit in New Delhi

Golden Gala

Pratham’s annual event raised millions for educational opportunities

It’s in the Cards

Legend goes that winning at card games during Diwali portends wealth and prosperity for the rest of the year (since you will have goddess Lakshmi’s blessings). Not only are card parties fun, but it can offer a creative twist on traditional Diwali celebrations. Card parties, which are popular in India, especially this time of year, offer a chance to enjoy the festivities, share some laughs, and spend quality time together.

Here are a few tips to organize a Diwali card party this year that your friends and family will love.

Choose Your Games

While it’s perfectly alright to play popular games like poker or blackjack, why not read up a bit on more interesting card games? Look up Indian traditional card games like Teen Patti (Three Cards) and add some variations or twists. For instance, pick a random card or suit that can be a substitute for any other card to complete a trio or sequence (called a “joker”). Other popular games include Andar Bahar (In and Out) and ThreeTwo-Five.

Or you could make up your own game. For instance, your age or birth year could be “trump” cards, or a randomly pulled card could make you go bust. Whichever game you choose, make sure the rules are clear to your guests before you begin. Also, plan your buy-in for each game and mention this to your guests when you send out the invites.

Plan Your Party Set-Up

The right seating is critical for card night. You want everyone to be comfortable, but you’d also want to have some banter as you play. The number of guests will help you

decide your seating. For instance, will you be able to use a standard poker table, or do you need a larger table, or multiple smaller tables? A smaller group could sit on the floor around a coffee table, or you could use your dining table to play.

If it’s your first time hosting card night, keep the group small and intimate. Also, if you plan to use cash instead of chips, keep a bowl or two ready to serve as the “pot.”

Food and Drinks

While pretzels and chips are always a great idea, you may want to serve a cocktail or two to get the party started. Keep it desi-themed, like a tamarind margarita or nimbu pani with vodka (Indian-style lemonade).

For the snacks, you could try hummus flavored with chaat masala, accompanied with coriander chutney finger sandwiches, and chicken or paneer tikka or kebabs. And since it’s Diwali, make sure your menu includes an Indian sweet or two, like barfi or laddoo!

Diwali card parties bring a fun energy to the holidays. Here’s how to make yours a success.

Georgia on My Mind

The state declares October as Hindu Heritage Month

In a gesture that celebrates diversity and acknowledges the rich contributions of the Hindu-American community, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp officially declared October to be celebrated as Hindu Heritage Month throughout the state.

This landmark decision places Georgia among a growing number of states across the nation, including Texas, Ohio, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Florida, Minnesota, Virginia, and others, in commemorating the heritage, culture, values, and traditions of the Hindu community.

The choice of October for ‘Hindu Heritage Month’ holds special significance. It is the birth month of Mahatma Gandhi, a towering figure known worldwide for his philosophy of non-violence and civil disobedience. Additionally, October is the time when major Hindu festivals like Navratri and Vijaydashami

are celebrated with great fervor, making it a perfect occasion to honor the rich tapestry of Hindu culture.

In an official proclamation, Governor Kemp stated, “The Hindu heritage, culture, traditions, and values provide their followers invaluable solutions to many of life’s problems and often serve as a source of inspiration, reflection, and contemplation for the millions of individuals who look to the teachings of Hinduism for guidance.”

He further emphasized that during the entire month of October 2023, the Hindu community in Georgia, along with their fellow Americans across the nation, will collectively celebrate their heritage by immersing themselves in their culture and embracing the diverse spiritual traditions rooted in India.

This declaration has been met with enthusiasm and gratitude from the Hindu-American community and their supporters.

Experience Enduring Partnerships

President Biden attends the G20 Summit in New Delhi

The 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, India, was attended by President Biden and leaders from the European Union, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Mauritius, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and the World Bank.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed United States President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., to India, reaffirming the close and enduring partnership between India and the United States. The leaders expressed their appreciation for the substantial progress underway to implement the groundbreaking achievements of Prime Minister Modi’s historic, June 2023, visit to Washington. President Biden lauded India’s G20 Presidency for further demonstrating how the G20 as a forum is delivering important outcomes.

The key highlight of the summit was the announcement of the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Leaders from the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Italy, and the European Union unveiled a transformative partnership to establish a railway-linked economic corridor connecting Europe to Asia through the Middle East. This initiative aims to promote global trade, expand access to electricity, facilitate clean energy distribution, strengthen telecommunications,

and support food security and supply chains. This landmark corridor is expected to stimulate economic development through enhanced connectivity and economic integration across two continents, thus unlocking sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

Golden Gala

Pratham’s annual event raised millions for educational opportunities

This year’s Pratham New York Gala held at Cipriani Wall Street raised funds to provide learning opportunities to 255,000 children in India. The event, which supports Pratham USA, a volunteerdriven organization that works in collaboration with governments, communities, parents, teachers, and volunteers to address gaps in the education system provided attendees with insight into its impact. One hightlight of the evening was listening to the inspiring story of Siddhi, a young woman whose life was transformed after achieving her Grade 10 certification through Pratham’s Second Chance program.

Indra Nooyi, former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo gave an inspiring keynote address, and world-renowned musical duo Salim–Sulaiman, provided the entertainment. Pratham also used the opportunity to showcase its women’s entrepreneurship initiative, which equips young

women and mothers with valuable job skills, enabling them to establish and manage their own businesses.

For more information or to support Pratham USA, visit prathamusa.org.

Nourish

DIWALI • DRINKS • RESTAURANT

Dress for Diwali

How to keep your Festival of Lights delicious and sweet, but just a little bit leaner

Ode to Chai

How chai became a symbol for hospitality in South Asian culture and the secret to the tastiest drink at home

Goa’s Fresh Take

Modern Indian cuisine on full display at Goa in Tribeca, New York

Diwali Delights

by Maureen Petrosky

Don’t panic. We all know Diwali is a time to celebrate and leave the stress of the day to dayincluding maintaining a healthy lifestyle- aside for a minute. True, this autumn festival of lights is about harvest so that means food, too, and lots of it. When I asked my Hindu friend about making Diwali recipes healthier she laughed out loud and said, “Everything is fried and sweet!” So how can we make Diwali foods cleaner and healthier?

In preparation for this five-day festival, many households embark on a massive cleaning. Home renovations and repairs are common in days leading up the holiday kick off. It’s a wonder with all this focus on light we have yet to see a big push on lightening the calories, fat, or sugar in our favor ite holiday treats. We’re not talking about giving up your sweets. In fact, we’re focusing on making them better, better for you that is.

The second day of Diwali is when we celebrate

Keep your Festival of Lights delicious and sweet, but just a little leaner

our love of sugar. Families buy and gift Indian sweet treats, also known as mithai or sweet meats. The most popular include versions of Halwa. This is a grated vegetable often carrots or pumpkin cooked with ghee, sugar and milk or condensed milk until it becomes thick, then it can be flavored with nuts and cardamom. Seeing as this treat already contained vegetables, I moved on to the next favorite sweet—Laddu or laddoo. These delicious little balls of flour, ghee or oil, sugar and nuts or dried fruits and can be deep fried, too. Now this is a recipe that can definitely be made healthier and here’s how:

First skip any added refined sugar and up the dried fruit. Medjool dates, raisins, dried apricots and dried cherries work great here. Next, we cut the fat or ghee which is traditionally used and skip the deep frying like you would a Besan Laddu.

And finally, we will make ours gluten free. You can achieve this using chickpea flour, nut flours, flaxseed meal or Metta gluten free flour. I know you’re clutching your heart- what are we doing to your poor little laddoo? If it makes it any easier, we can stop calling these laddoo, and instead call them a little Indian sweet or an Indian energy ball because it is true, they are both. Try it before you swear them off. I promise these are the perfect little treat and you can celebrate Diwali knowing you are a little bit healthier for it.

Gluten-Free Healthy Laddoo

1 ¼ cup of grated coconut, lightly toasted to golden brown

½ cup golden flaxseed meal

½ cup almond flour

12 soft Medjool dates, seeded

¼ teaspoon salt

¼ cup of raisins, dried cherries (or a mix of them all)

¼ teaspoon ground cardamom

1 teaspoon of water, if needed

15 nuts of your choosing—pistachio, almond, cashew, or peanut

In the bowl of a food processor combine all the ingredients, except for ¼ cup of the coconut and the whole nuts. Pulse to a course grind. Pinch off and roll into small laddoos. Roll half in the remaining toasted coconut, leave some plain and place one nut on top of each of the remaining to garnish. Makes about 26 to 30 small laddoos. You can store these for up to a week in an airtight container.

Ode to Chai

How chai became a symbol for hospitality in South Asian culture and the secret to the tastiest drink at home

by Amita Mehta

As spicy and delicious as my morning chai is each day, it’s the comfort of home, the memories it imbues, and the hospitality it conveys that makes it a mainstay in my life. There are other drinks that bring a sentimental moment or two—mango lassi, first and foremost—but nothing has the staying power and the continuity that chai holds.

Once we settled in America after our expulsion from Uganda, Mom made her chai in a pot and simmered it with care and love. I drank chai every morning before I went to school, and it was a staple in our home, no matter how much my family struggled to gain a financial foothold—it was always a way to start off the day. So many mornings come to mind, long after my childhood, in which my mom invited me for tea and toast—her steaming, milky chai wafting through the kitchen. The beauty of chai is that it transcends socioeconomic boundaries, religion, and status—it is the truest symbol of hospitality and home.

In honor of my love of chai, here’s a bit of history to understand its origins.

- Chai culture developed out of British colonization

-Tea consumption grew, and Indians began to take on the British preparation of tea— black with milk and sugar—adding their own twist with the addition of spices like cinnamon and cloves.

-After India gained independence from the U.K. in 1947, chai became the country’s largest industry and was named the official drink of India.

- One personal tip: In my humble opinion, chai goes best with a side of sweet Jalebi, crunchy Gathiya, or savory Chevda

Goa’s Fresh Take

Chef, restaurateur, and sommelier Hemant Bhagwani opened his first New York City restaurant early this year, and, from the décor to the food, Goa New York is brimming with innovation. In part, he credits his latest marvel of inventive Indian cuisine to a recent research trip through India “served as one of the inspirations for the restaurant, which is not strictly Goan in cuisine but offers a taste and feel of modern India today.”

Near the entrance, restaurant-goers are treated to an original work from artist Ankon Mitra called “The Dance of the Peacocks,” which is suspended from the ceiling.

But the menu itself offers plenty of art, from twists on traditional Indian dishes like the chef’s signature Charcoal Butter Chicken or street food like Chaat Papdi and Samosa Chaat to Goan favorites like Shrimp Balchao with a tomato-chili-tamarind sauce on toast or Chorizo Chili Fry with pimento-flavored sausages (and bacon) on toast. One menu favorite: the vegan Goan-Style Slaw features 16 ingredients (including salted star fruit and green chili.

Modern Indian cuisine on full display at Goa in Tribeca, New York

Prosper

LEGISLATION • RESEARCH • DISCRIMINATION

Casting Off New California bill would outlaw caste discrimination

South Asians have mixed opinions on the proposed law, which would be the first of its kind in the US

Solving A Major Micro Problem

Colorado University professor Sanghamitra Neogi has earned national accolades for her research on overheating microchips

Battling Unconscious Bias

Motivational speaker Smita

Tharoor explains how stereotypes influence every aspect of our lives

Casting Off

New California bill would outlaw caste discrimination

South Asians have mixed opinions on the proposed law, which would be the first of its kind in the U.S.

Following in the footsteps of cities like Seattle, the California state legislature recently passed a bill that would outlaw caste discrimination. If signed into law, it would become the first state in the U.S. to explicitly prevent caste discrimination. But the bill has faced pushback from many South Asians living in the state, feeling it unfairly targets South Asians specifically.

While caste discrimination is illegal in India and Nepal, the U.S. doesn’t currently have similar laws, which has led to some lawsuits alleging the practice of poor treatment based on caste, especially in the tech industry. Despite their controversial status, the new bills have brought new awareness in the U.S. to the concept of caste, as many staff in the legislature reported needing to research the concept to better understand both sides.

“This bill is very simple. It is to protect all people against caste discrimination, regardless of caste: upper caste, lower caste, it does not matter.”

— Sen. Aisha Wahab, who introduced the bill

“I really thought I had left untouchability or caste-based discrimination back in Nepal. I never thought that one day I would be discriminated against just on the basis of caste in a country like the U.S.” —Bhim Narayan Bishwakarma, who recalled a landlord refusing a rental based on his surname, common among Nepalese Dalit families

Voices For: Voices Against:

“Everyone has a race. Everyone has an ancestry. Everyone has a gender. Everyone has an age. Not everyone has a caste.”

Suhag Shukla, executive director of the Hindu American Foundation

“We are all in America now and our kids are secondand third-generation. As immigrants, we want to create a better society and lifestyle and leave all these issues behind.”

Samir Kalra, managing director for policy and programs at the Hindu American Foundation

Solving A Major Micro Problem

Colorado University professor Sanghamitra Neogi has earned national accolades for her research on overheating microchips

If you’ve ever used an iPhone or a credit card, you’ve interacted with microchips. The tiny chips power so much of the modern economy, and will become even more essential to the next phase of technological development from AI to quantum computing..

But these chips also have a tendency to overheat, causing a chain reaction of events that can cause them and their devices to fail. To help solve this persistent problem, University of Colorado professor Sanghamitra Neogi has assembled a team of researchers across the country to find a way to prevent overheating. In fact, her research has been so important, the U.S. Department of Defense recently awarded her a $1 million contract.

“A new car might have more than a thousand chips, each one managing a different facet of the vehicle’s operation. Semiconductors are also the driving force behind the innovations poised to revolutionize life over the next century, like quantum computing and artificial intelligence.”

Her research will focus on the tiny transistors that control how a microchip operates and heats. “A modern-day transistor has semiconductor, metal and dielectric confined within an incredibly small, nanoscopic space,” Neogi said to the Daily Camera

“For example, the main chip of an iPhone has anywhere from 10 to 20 billion transistors. So if you increase the temperature, a chemical reaction can take place and can generate defects that can damage the material.”

While computers can use external tools like fans to keep it cool, microchips are so small and powerful, the old solutions no longer work. Plus, the technology has gotten so small, the chips aren’t even visible with microscopes. That puts Dr. Neogi’s work at the very frontiers of science and physics say colleagues who work in the industry. But if she can help engineer a solution, it could have impacts on technology that resonate throughout our lives for decades to come.

Battling Unconscious Bias

Motivational speaker Smita Tharoor explains how stereotypes influence every aspect of our lives

Unconscious bias is pervasive and often overlooked, but affects our thoughts, decisions, and behaviors across education, employment, social interactions, and beyond. It is a form of bias that occurs without conscious awareness, leading individuals to make judgments and decisions based on stereotypes and

prejudices that they may not even realize they hold.

Smita Tharoor understands this all too well. As a motivational keynote speaker and cofounder of Culturelytics, a company that uses artificial intelligence to understand culture in an organization, she studies the effect of conditional bias on decision making.

“Bias is a preference. People think of it negatively, but it isn’t. It could be for or against. It’s a preference for or against something,” she explains. “It can be an individual, a country, food or whatever. It’s unconscious when you don’t know that you have that preference.”

Also known as implicit bias, unconscious bias refers to the subtle and automatic prejudices and stereotypes that influence our perceptions, attitudes, and actions. These are formed over time through exposure to societal norms, cultural influences, media representations, and personal experiences.

“How we get unconscious biases is our personal narrative, our life experiences, how we were parented. The good, the bad, and the ugly,” says Tharoor. Unconscious bias operates beneath the surface of conscious thought, making it challenging for individuals to recognize or control. “It could be that you are an 8-year-old of Indian origin growing up in New York. In school you are bullied very badly by somebody from Poland,” she says. “Fast forward to today. It is possible because of that traumatic experience of being bullied by a Polish kid, that you have very little to do with Polish people. It’s an instinct—you want to protect yourself.”

Unconscious bias can have far-reaching consequences in various domains and predominantly experienced at the workplace. It can affect hiring decisions, performance evaluations, and opportunities for advancement. It can perpetuate inequalities, such as the gender pay gap and underrepresentation of minority groups in leadership positions.

Tharoor has also witnessed that women tend to question their place in the world. “When asking women around the world stories of their unconscious biases, there is a common theme. It is one about lack of self-belief. It is one about asking, ‘Am I good enough?’ It is one about patriarchy,” she says about the unconscious bias women often inflict upon themselves.

Addressing unconscious bias requires conscious effort and commitment. Tharoor offers advice on how to respond, “Rather than pointing a finger and saying, ‘You did that to me because I’m a woman, because I’m brown or because I’m gay,’ it can be more helpful to ask, ‘What can I do to grow and develop and challenge my own unconscious biases?’ Self-reflect and be brave.”

GENDER. A study published in the journal “Science” found that both male and female scientists were more likely to hire a male candidate over an equally qualified female candidate for a laboratory manager position. This indicates the presence of gender bias in hiring decisions.

LEADERSHIP. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, women are underrepresented in leadership roles across various industries. This underrepresentation is often attributed to biases in promotion and selection processes.

AGE. Ageism, or bias based on age, can also be unconscious. Research by AARP has found that older workers often face bias in hiring and promotion decisions, despite their qualifications and experience.

Research continues to show the biases at play across categories. Here are a few ways in which it can show up:

Indulge

FASHION • MAKEUP • FALL TRENDS

Dress for Diwali

Our fashion expert weighs in on what they’re looking to buy to celebrate the festival

Mango Meets Makeup

Sephora founder Sravya

Adusumilli combines chemistry with business sense for its first ayurvedic makeup brand

Beauty Tricks and Treats

5 products to conjure the Halloween spirit

SEEMA Recommends

Dress for Diwali

Our fashion expert weighs in on what she’s looking to buy to celebrate the festival

Though Diwali will be celebrated in November this year, fashionistas are already picking out their looks for the upcoming festive season. To find out what’s trending this year, we spoke to Subikksha Balaje, founder of jewelry brand Goldstories. She’s scouted out multiple looks from some of her favorite retailers for the festival. Here’s a sneak peak at what she’s thinking and the jewelry from her line that best compliments it.

“Since there’s often a Diwali party at one of our friend’s houses, I like to have a third look ready. Typically, it’s a contemporary or fusion ensemble. Right now, I’m considering a kaftan from Masaba, which allows me to comfortably hang out with friends and enjoy the festivities while still looking festive.

houseofmasaba.com

truebrowns.com

“As the evening approaches and the festivities begin I indulge in a more grander look. I have been eyeing this stunning gold saree by Raw Mango and to complement its look, the Goldstories Mandala collection, particularly the Kala ring in onyx or the new carnelian make perfect additions.”

“During the daytime, especially for the pooja and while keeping up with the kids, comfort is key. Therefore, I usually opt for a simple yet traditional look. This year, I’m thinking of a linen Kurta set.”

goldstoriesjewelry.com

rawmango.com

For this look, I’d pair it with the Manga pendant with stones. I love the colors black, gold, orange, and red for Diwali. They echo the grandeur and celebratory spirit of the festival.”

SEEMA RECOMMENDS

MandalaThe Rural Painter

Made for peace, prosperity and protection, the original Mandalas from Nepal not only decorate your walls, they also bring positive vibrations into your space. The Rural Painter gives you the opportunity to give the gift of divinity this Diwali.

theruralpainter.com

Ammu’s Treasures

A three-disc omnibus of 35 classic songs and 21 soothing chants for all ages. The album is produced by Grammy-nominated Chandrika Tandon with a stellar group of musical friends. The album which began as a simple gift from a grandmother to her grandchildren, has become an expression of intergenerational love and wisdom for children and adults everywhere.

chandrikatandon.com

Ruchi Pink Woven Silk Blend One Minute Saree

Perfect for any festive occasion, this saree is an all-time hit. It’s a classic traditional woven saree with gold embellishments and tassels on the edge. The beautiful saree comes with an in-built petticoat and the blouse can be customized to your preferred style. It’s easy to just wear and go!

oneminutesaree.com

Mango Meets Makeup

Sephora founder Sravya Adusumilli combines chemistry with business sense for its first ayurvedic makeup brand

While she was in college studying engineering, Sravya Adusumilli couldn’t find the perfect shade of nude pink lipstick that would show up on her pigmented lips, so she experimented with making her own. After a few science experiments (including one that turned her mother’s kitchen table pink), she perfected the formula for her first product—the Multi-Stick.

The formula, made with nourishing mango butter and other Ayurvedic ingredients, can be used on eyes, lips, and cheeks — perfect for a college student like Adusumilli who was looking to save money at the time. The key ingredient gave rise to her emerging beauty brand’s name: Mango People. In 2022, the brand was selected for Sephora’s incubator program, which helps new brands learn the ins and outs of selling and merchandising products with the retailer.

This month, Sephora announced that they will officially be selling the brand online at sephora. com, making it the first Ayurvedic makeup brand to be sold via the beauty giant. Adusumilli hopes the opportunity brings more inclusivity and healthy ingredients to the beauty world. “I wanted to create a line of products where anyone, no matter the skin tone, can find the perfect shade that accentuates their natural beauty—without compromising on performance and ingredients,” she says.

5 products to conjure the Halloween spirit

Beauty Tricks and Treats

As spooky season inches closer, there’s no better way to celebrate than with some of our favorite fall favorite makeup and skincare. Here’s just a few of our favorite beauty treats fit for Halloween.

PETER THOMAS ROTH PUMPKIN ENZYME MASK ENZYMATIC DERMAL RESURFACER

With its slight tingling sensation, this exfoliating mask leaves our skin bright and glowing. The pumpkin smell also puts us in the mood for fall.

$60, peterthomasroth.com

MAISON MARGIELA ‘REPLICA’ AUTUMN VIBES

If your heart is in the mood for some leaf peeping, this light and woody perfume will fit the bill. Fresh fir balsam, cardamom, and cedarwood bring the mountain air closer to home.

$85, Maisonmargiela-fragrances.us

L’ORÉAL PARIS VOLUMINOUS MASCARA, DEEP BURGUNDY

Deep, autumnal purples were spotted throughout fashion week, and colored mascaras bring the perfect subtle hint of color to any eye look. We love the warm glow from this affordable pick.

$11, lorealparisusa.com

TARTE TARTELETTE TOASTED EYESHADOW PALETTE

The latte makeup trend is still going strong this fall, so perfect the look with this warm palette that reminds us of an early fall campfire.

$45, tartecosmetics.com

DYSON CORRALE HAIR STRAIGHTENER

Perfect for every hair type, this innovative straightener uses less heat, which means less breakage. Plus, its cordless design (in this warm autumn color) makes it one of the easiest tools to use.

$499, dyson.com

Breathe

CANCER • ADHD • HEALTH

Beating Breast Cancer Stigma

Why South Asian women still face myths and misinformation

Underdiagnosed ADHD

Cultural norms can mask symptoms until later in life

Hidden Fat

When self-advocacy can save your life

Beating Breast Cancer Stigma

Though Breast Cancer Awareness Month has been celebrated every October for nearly 40 years, South Asian women can still face a unique stigma when dealing with the disease. New research by Dr. Ranak Trivedi, a Stanford clinical psychologist, finds that myths persist in South Asian culture that breast cancer is contagious or deserved. “Because of stigma, the individual may feel isolated because it’s not easy to share this as a diagnosis,” said Dr Trivedi.

Girls with a family history of the disease may be considered unmarriageable. Many women also feel

Why South Asian women still face myths and misinformation

shame about baring their breasts to doctors. This prompts many women to delay potentially life-saving treatment.

Even when they do seek treatment, many South Asian women in the U.S. don’t disclose their diagnosis to their communities, even to close family members. As a result, they miss out on much-needed emotional and practical support during a time when they may need it the most.

To that end, Dr. Trivedi recently led a study exploring psychosocial needs of South Asian breast cancer survivors in the U.S. Participants emphasized the isolation they felt, lacking the communal embrace cancer patients receive in South Asian countries like India. Caregivers also felt ignored. While survivors trusted Western medicine, they desired more culturally relevant information and resources in their native languages to share with family.

She suggests that more materials are needed to address the facts and myths around breast cancer. Culturally specific guidance, such as vegetarian diet plans and Punjabi- or Hindilanguage materials, should also be considered in a more holistic treatment of breast cancer. But most importantly, normalizing the condition in South Asian communities can help build a support network that can help all women facing a new or existing diagnosis.

BREAST CANCER IS INCREASING AT A RATE OF 1.9% A YEAR.

1 in 8 South Asian women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer during her lifetime

Underdiagnosed ADHD

Cultural norms can mask symptoms until later in life

Good grades and extracurricular awards might normally be seen as proud accomplishments, but overachievement can actually mask signs of neurodivergence in Asian communities, according to new research. In fact, studies have shown that for every 100 white children diagnosed with ADHD only 48 Asian children share the diagnosis.

Model minority myths continue to shoulder much of the blame, as children are believed to be seen as well-behaved and good students—even when they may be struggling in reality. Cultural norms and high parental expectations can also play a part in underdiagnosis.

“I see resistance from families and parents around ADHD often, until things reach a crisis point,” says Niranjan Karnik, a psychiatry professor at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine. Often, parents try or believe that the problem can be solved with willpower and discipline.

But without proper diagnosis or treatment, many South Asian women and girls secretly suffer from high anxiety trying to keep up appearances. Parents often compensate for struggles by keeping children on track for homework and other reminders, but a lack of a proper diagnosis can result in depression and anxiety, especially later in life as that support system falters.

Researchers suggest more attention needs to be paid to this unique community, especially in

the U.S. where the problem is masked further with unconscious and conscious bias. As more women come forward with ADHD diagnoses, the community of support can also grow.

Only 2% of Asian American children are diagnosed with ADHD. In Asian countries, this rate of ADHD hovers around 6%, leading researchers to suspect cultural biases are at play.

Hidden Fat

When self-advocacy can save your life

Though Asian Americans have lower BMIs than the U.S. white population, they are 40% more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes—a figure that rises even further when looking specifically at South Asians. But without being trained on what to look for, doctors can miss key signs.

In particular, Asian Americans tend to deposit fat around the organs and in the muscle around the heart—which can look like “skinny fat” say doctors, when people look thin, but still may be at high risk for inflammation and insulin resistance.

While more research is needed, South Asians can keep in mind specific guidelines for preventive care. For instance, the American Diabetes Association recommends Asian Americans get screened for diabetes at a body mass index (BMI) of 23, instead of the BMI of 25 recommended for the general population.

Blood test screening also can miss key factors in Asian Americans, since much of the screening research was based on people of European descent. In one test, the levels of sugar attached to the protein hemoglobin (AC1) are tested. While current guidance says 6.5% or higher might mean diabetes, this level can be lower in Asians. If you receive a result that falls in the 5.7% to 6.4% range, you may want to request further testing.

By knowing these unique cultural factors, patients can more easily advocate for themselves, and take the extra steps needed to get additional screening, while also making healthy exercise and diet choices to keep even “skinny fat” at bay.

Enroll & Earn for South Asian Health

In order to bring more research and awareness to heart health, a new study is enrolling South Asians between the ages of 18 to 65 years who do not already have heart disease but who have some risk factors. The study is currently looking for mother-daughter pairs in the Chicagoland area, with daughters who are 11-16 years old. Participants can join group exercise classes, get health screenings, meet other South Asians, and earn up to $180. Enroll at sahelistudy.org

WHERE MATH IS AN ADVENTURE!

WHY US?

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Bringing A-Game Her

Anita Chatterjee, the visionary behind A-Game Public Relations, is shaping the careers of some of the biggest names in tech, media, and beyond.

• Abhijit Masih •

Anita Chatterjee is not just a publicist; she is an inspiration, particularly to women founders and leaders. She is the driving force behind A-Game Public Relations, a company known for representing a diverse array of high-profile clients across the United States and beyond. With a dynamic and innovative leadership style, Chatterjee has an extraordinary ability to transform clients into household names through top-tier media placements, strategic partnerships, and groundbreaking solutions. Her achievements caught the attention of Forbes in 2021, as she was featured on their prestigious Next 1000 list, recognizing entrepreneurs who are reshaping the American dream.

Her company and her personal dedication to her clients has empowered numerous iconic women to amplify their messages in the media, helping them reach new heights of success. Chatterjee’s passion and commitment extend beyond her professional endeavors, as many of her clients have transitioned from being mere clients to cherished friends. SEEMA spoke to her to delve into her remarkable journey and gain insights into the world of public relations through her eyes.

CAPTIVATED BY PUBLIC RELATIONS

The publicity field was something that I always naturally loved, but I never thought of it as a career. Many of us go into professions because we think we might like it or it is something that our parents encouraged us to do; but you really need to sit back and reflect on what you’re good at. I was always organically rooting for organizations and people to achieve their objectives and their dreams. And I was often a public relations officer within those organizations because I believed in increasing the visibility of the organizations and sharing their stories.

When I went to college, I knew I wanted to study communications. I thought I was going to go into broadcast communications and I love public speaking. I learned about PR while I was in school, and I was attracted to it and wanted to be more involved in it. My first PR internship was at the WGN News network, and I realized it was something I was really good at

and I could make a career out of. So that was kind of like the Aha moment, that this could be a field that I could really rise in.

CAMPAIGNS, CONNECTIONS, AND ANJULA ACHARIA

DesiHits was this game-changing platform that was the bridge between Hollywood and Bollywood. Anjula Acharia, who is one of my best friends and mentors, was CEO of the company. I was working in Media and one of my friends was working at Bad Boy Entertainment, he left to join Desi Hits. So he invited me for lunch one day at his office and while I was there I ran into Anjula who was the CEO at the time. We always joke that it was love at first sight. We had a real connection. We were both Indian women who were ambitious, and she could sense that there was something about me that would be good for her organization. So a few weeks later, she asked me to be the editor-in-chief of DesiHits. While I handled the editorial on that platform, I worked on many campaigns with her. We did Lady Gaga’s PR campaign in India, I worked with Rihanna and uplifted her profile. We worked with various American celebrities and got them to really see the value of the Indian entertainment industry and the power of Bollywood.

MOTIVATION BEHIND THE AGENCY’S INCEPTION

Eventually DesiHits’ time came to an end like a lot of startups. I think it was just ahead of its time. I went back into Media, and eventually decided I wanted to go into public relations, because I really enjoyed doing PR for Lady Gaga and the celebrities we worked with at DesiHits. While working at those organizations, one of the companies wanted to partner with me. I was telling this to Anjula, and she said—forget about partnering with the company. Just do your own thing. You have a gift. When I was working with you, you were creative. You were coming up with ideas, and you are really taking people and making them into household names in different markets. So she encouraged me to start my own business, and she introduced me to my very first client. Anjula champions a lot of women, and I was lucky that I was one of the women that she picked to champion.

SECURING THE FIRST CLIENT

His name is Rohan Oza and he was under the radar. He wasn’t

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known when I got connected to him, but I met him and saw that he had this amazing track record of pioneering celebrity equity deals. I worked with him, and the Hollywood reporter tagged him as the Hollywood brand. Father Inc. has called him the Kingmaker, and he eventually became a recurring judge on Shark Tank. So he’s really gotten known, and is a well-known name in the country now. But he was my very first client at A-Game.

THE CLIENT CHECKLIST

In order to engage with the firm, you have to have a track record. You already have to be somewhat known, at least in your industry. Our job is to increase the visibility of an organization or its leaders, or a celebrity in terms of what they’re doing. But they have to come to us with a track record that’s already there. When we meet with the client we do some homework on them. We see whether these people have reached a certain level where they’re ready for PR—are they high-growth companies? Are they public companies? Have they really established themselves in their field? Are they known? Are they ready for their career?

Sometimes people do amazing things, but they haven’t built themselves up enough to be ready to engage with the firm. I always tell people you need to work on your personal profile and promote yourself through social media, through your network. We see if they have done that homework. So that’s what we look at when we engage with different clients.

ART OF CARE AND COMMITMENT

We handle our clients with a lot of sensitivity. I tell all my clients I’m available to them 24 hours, because our clients are very busy people. Sometimes, they do need to call me later in the evening or at odd hours to help them build their stories. We’re always very open and flexible with them and very understanding. The mantra is we’re on your team. We’re rooting for you. So, we need to trust each other and be there for each other. And I tell my team, we need to be very sensitive to our clients, their feelings, their needs and their leadership style to get them to where they need to be.

CRITERIA FOR CLIENT TERMINATION

I have fired clients. One of the main reasons for that is if we feel they’re disrespectful, not just to us. If we’ve seen them be disrespectful to others publicly, or they’ve shown some sort of hatred or racism. I think for every organization, whether it’s PR or any industry, you never want to align yourself with people who are putting out hate or representing themselves in a wrongful fashion. So anybody who’s reading this, if you get a sense of that with anybody you’re going to collaborate with, I would highly suggest that you decline the partnership.

FUELING IMPACT: SUCCESS STORIES

We work with several high-growth companies, many in the food and beverage space. Caulipower—the brand that

“When we work with our clients, we’re putting out fires for them all the time. It’s just life. Everybody makes mistakes.”

“Our job is to increase the visibility of organizations or its leaders, or a celebrity in terms of what they’re doing.”

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IG: IAMKANWALBATOOL

STYLING : SANDEEP TUPILI (MAISON TAI)

INSTAGRAM : @SANDEEPRAVI89 & @MAISONTAI

FACEBOOK : @SANDEEPRAVI @MAISONTAI

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INSTAGRAM: @JOHNMARTINPRODUCTIONS

FACEBOOK: JOHN MARTIN PRODUCTIONS

ANITA’S FAVORITE FEW

FAVORITE MOVIE - It’s forever changing. But I guess the Spiderman series.

FAVORITE MUSIC - I really like Reggaeton music.

FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATIONSingapore. My parents are originally from Myanmar, so I appreciate the Asian culture and the Indian representation in the country.

FAVORITE FOOD - Oh, I love IndoChinese food. Hakka noodles.

FAVORITE PIECE OF CLOTHINGBlazers. It just makes me feel powerful and confident.

HOW DO YOU UNWIND – Netflix. It’s the easy source to get an escape. Netflix and reading. I’m an avid reader.

FAVORITE CELEBRITY - I really admire Priyanka. She’s just so intelligent and a big advocate for independent women.

A PERSON YOU WOULD LIKE TO HAVE DINNER WITH - Mother Teresa is someone who’s always inspired me. I had the honor to meet Mother Teresa, but I was a child then. She was just such an amazing woman.

FAVORITE DESTINATION IN INDIA - I love to travel to India, it’s where our roots are. I will say Kolkata because that’s where my family is from.

made the cauliflower-crusted pizza famous. They’re in over 35,000 major retailers. We’ve really helped them raise their profile and build the profile of the female founder of the brand. Vital Proteins is also a major brand that got acquired by Nestle Health Science and it grew like wildfire. We shared the organization’s stories and really elevated their products. There’s a meal kit company called Gobble. We work with Sunbasket, which is a very popular healthy meal kit company. We’ve worked and continue to work with a lot of amazing tech companies, ClassPass being one of them. We were able to share the announcement when the company became a unicorn company. We also work in the venture space with CAVU. We also work with a lot of celebrities. We work with Priyanka Chopra Jonas on her initiatives. There’s also the multi-Grammy award winning singer NE-YO. We have done a lot of work introducing him to different tech organizations. That’s just a few examples of the many amazing clients that we’ve worked with and the list goes on. We work with a lot of private and public high-growth companies, Venture Capital firms and celebrities.

MASTERING CRISIS CONTROL

When we work with our clients, we’re putting out fires for them all the time. It’s just life. Everybody makes mistakes. It’s something that we have to deal with all of our clients. People are very opinionated about successful brands and individuals and stories will come out and we have to find a way to figure out how to share our client’s narrative to

the public. We either put out statements or do additional press with them so they could share their side of the story. It’s circumstantial and depends on every situation. But yes, it’s a part of what we do. You always have to put out fires just as much as to build the profiles.

EMPOWERING SOUTH ASIAN WOMEN IN PR: INSIGHTS AND ADVICE

Be very humble. You have to pay your dues before you get up there, especially in the world of communications. When you’re doing PR at an agency, you really need to build your network and become a very strong writer and speaker. Understand what the media is looking for and be creative and that takes time. Do a lot of internships to get started, learn from people and identify the right mentors. Be very respectful to those who are established in the field and try your best to get to know them. Just work hard and stay consistent and you’ll eventually get there.

QUANTIFYING SUCCESS

As a publicist, there’s been so many wins in terms of bringing these organizations to the forefront and sharing their messages. But I think one of my biggest accomplishments is building a business. I have a whole team. I support them in their personal career journeys. I’m so proud that I’ve been able to build an organization, become a female founder and build a platform where I really can help people impact the world by sharing their expertise, their experiences and their innovations. It’s just been an honor. I would say my biggest accomplishment today is being the founder of A-Game public relations.

IG:

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM:

“I tell my team, we need to be very sensitive to our clients, their feelings, their needs and their leadership style to get them to where they need to be.”

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IAMKANWALBATOOL

STYLING : SANDEEP TUPILI (MAISON TAI)

: @SANDEEPRAVI89 & @MAISONTAI

: @SANDEEPRAVI @MAISONTAI

PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN MARTIN PRODUCTIONS

@JOHNMARTINPRODUCTIONS

FACEBOOK: JOHN MARTIN PRODUCTIONS

HAIR AND MAKEUP: KANWAL BATOOL

IG: IAMKANWALBATOOL

STYLING : SANDEEP TUPILI (MAISON TAI)

INSTAGRAM : @SANDEEPRAVI89 & @MAISONTAI

FACEBOOK : @SANDEEPRAVI @MAISONTAI

PHOTO CREDIT: JOHN MARTIN PRODUCTIONS

INSTAGRAM: @JOHNMARTINPRODUCTIONS

FACEBOOK: JOHN MARTIN PRODUCTIONS

“Anjula champions a lot of women, and I was lucky that I was one of the women that she picked to champion.”

•

A-Game clients (past and present)

• Bai

• Blavity

• CAULIPOWER

• ClassPass (acquired by Mindbody in October 2021)

• Falguni Shane Peacock

• Gobble

• Holberton School

• Hooked

• Illumix

• Mysterious

• NE-YO

• Ooshma Garg

• Payal Kadakia

• Peek

• POPPI

• Rohan Oza and his firm CAVU

• Sunbasket

• Suneera Madhani

• Stax

• VAHDAM® India

• Venus ET Fleur

• Vital Proteins (acquired by Nestle Health Science in 2020)

• Yumi

Anjula Acharia on Anita

“When I met Anita, I immediately knew there was magic in her. We had an instant connection. I had my colleague set up a meeting with her the very next day and I offered her the editorin-chief position at DesiHits. While at DesiHits, Anita helped me launch some incredible artists in Asia including Lady Gaga, Britney Spears, 50 Cent, and Enrique Iglesias. She became my goto person to create great content that we were able to monetize. After her time at DesiHits, it was clear to me that she should set up her own public relations firm. I have trusted her expertise for over a decade now. I connected Anita with my good friend Rohan Oza with confidence and convinced him to sign on with Anita as her first client. Rohan is still a client of A-Game Public Relations and is grateful for that initial introduction. Anita is passionate and driven. She knows how to tell a compelling story to elevate both individuals’ and brands’ stories, making her the quintessence of an effective publicist.”

Well-Traveled

These three luxury destinations put health and wellness at the center of the vacation experience

• Lindsey Galloway •

Vacations have long been about getting away for some rest and relaxation, but more destinations across the world have worked at putting wellness at the center of the travel experience. From expanded fitness offerings to mindful meditation to healthy eating options, these trips center the whole self to truly emerge rejuvenated and refreshed.

Viceroy Bali UBUD, BALI

Just five minutes from the city center of Ubud in Bali, the Viceroy and its 40 luxury villas feel tucked away in paradise. In fact, the name Ubud itself comes from the word obat meaning “herb” or “medicine,” making the mountainous destination a renowned center for healing. The resort recently reopened the reimagined Akoya Spa, which offers state-of-the art therapies like IV infusions and peptide therapies, all meant to rejuvenate skin and body. The resort prides itself on combining the best of both Eastern and Western therapies for the most relaxing experience. Try the Four Hands massage, a traditional Balinese massage given by two therapists at the same time. viceroybali.com

AmaMagna Cruise Ship EUROPE

While cruise ships are often thought to be the ultimate indulgence, Ama Waterways combines the cruising experience without travelers needing to sacrifice their healthy lifestyle. The AmaMagna—known for its sailings throughout the Danube River in Europe— comes outfitted with an expansive Zen Wellness Studio and offers off-shore active biking and walking excursions. The ship also made history by being the first river cruise line to install a full-size pickleball court. With a juice bar and vegetable-forward restaurant Al Fresco, you also don’t have to ditch your diet onboard. amawaterways.com

Watershed Spa + Baths

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

Just opened last year, this innovative combination of baths and spas is the first of its kind to open in Minneapolis. ”A watershed moment is a turning point, a time when important change happens,” explains founder Nell Rueckl. “We’re at a moment in history when we need deep healing for ourselves, our communities, and our planet.”

The bath experience walks you through a seven-step ritual, walking you through a hot soak, steam room, sauna, and cold plunge pool. Spa treatments like traditional massage, or integrative cupping for treating muscle pain, can be added on top of the bath ritual. Or combine the soak with a yoga class or sound bath. watershedspa.com

Focus on Family Planning

When it comes to managing their future families, more women are turning to IVF. But stigmas around the procedure still remain. Here we demystify the process and talk to women who have been through it.

• Lindsey Galloway •

Whether for infertility, aging, or other health reasons, women have countless reasons for turning to fertility procedures like freezing their eggs or in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, embarking on the IVF journey comes with many questions and uncertainties, and can still carry misunderstandings and stigmas in South Asian communities.

To understand more, we spoke with women who have undergone IVF treatment and top fertility experts to hear the physical, emotional, and social aspects of this unique path to parenting.

THE DECISION TO TRY IVF

Rohini Kapur and her husband wanted to start a family, but his frequent overseas work travel made timing conception challenging. When natural conception wasn’t happening, she spoke to her doctor, but he didn’t recommend intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF as he believed she was “fit and fertile” to conceive naturally. But after doing the research and knowing her partner’s intense schedule, she advocated for herself and found a fertility specialist.

IVF seemed like a workable option. In that procedure, mature eggs are collected from ovaries and fertilized by sperm in a lab. The fertilized eggs, called embryos, are then transplanted into a uterus, with the hope that a healthy baby develops. A full IVF cycle can last anywhere from two to three weeks.

After learning about the prep work and the procedures, Kapur felt confident in moving forward.“I found the process of turning up for appointments, taking medication, and getting injections on time very easy and simple to follow,” she said. “I didn’t have to ‘do’ anything, such as worry about my fertile days, or wonder about my partner’s mood, or mine. All I had to do was show up at the clinic and take the meds.”

For Kapur, IVF offered a path forward that worked with her relationship circumstances and lifestyle. “Even though I had one failed cycle, it was overall much less stressful than trying to have intercourse at the right date and time,” she says.

FOCUSING ON FERTILITY HEALTH

Even while researching the process of IVF, women can still take steps to optimize their fertility, which can improve the odds of both natural conception and a successful IVF cycle. “Women can enhance their fertility in several ways. Firstly, maintaining a healthy body weight is essential. Being overweight or underweight can affect hormone production and inhibit ovulation,” says Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, Chief IVF Specialist and Founder of Bloom IVF. He stresses the importance of a nutritious diet, regular exercise, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and getting checked for any underlying conditions that could impact fertility. Managing stress can also be beneficial. “High stress levels can alter hormone balance and potentially affect ovulation and menstrual cycles,” Dr. Pai explains.

Dr. Himali Maniar, OB-GYN and fertility expert at ClinicSpots, echoes the value of a healthy lifestyle. “Eating a healthy, balanced diet is incredibly important for not only general health but also reproductive health. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight as well as avoiding smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs can all help improve fertility,” she says. She also highlighted the potential benefits of specific activities like yoga for supporting reproductive health.

THE INITIAL FERTILITY CONSULTATION

If pregnancy doesn’t occur naturally within a reasonable timeframe, meeting with a fertility specialist is the next step. “When a woman first visits a fertility specialist they will typically undergo an initial evaluation that includes lifestyle assessment, physical examination,

laboratory tests, and imaging,” says Dr. Maniar. “This evaluation is designed to identify any underlying issues that might be preventing pregnancy.”

This consultation lays the groundwork for determining if fertility treatments are needed and which options may work best. Based on the test results and discussion, the doctor can develop a customized treatment plan.

DECIDING ON IVF

For some couples, the fertility investigations may point to IVF as the most promising path, but the road is not always easy, and women should be armed with all the facts before moving forward. “IVF, In vitro fertilization, is a meticulous process that requires significant commitment and patience,” explains Dr. Pai. “The process involves multiple steps over several weeks, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization in the lab, embryo development, and finally, embryo transfer.”

How PCOS May Affect South Asian Women

Fertility Differently

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is a condition that has been shown to affect South Asian women differently than other ethnic groups, and researchers are starting to explore how that might affect fertility and reproductive procedures like IVF.

One recent study showed that when South Asian women with PCOS underwent ovarian stimulation (when women take injectable hormones to retrieve more eggs) for IVF, they required a lower dose of hormone injections and had a higher number of eggs retrieved compared with Caucasian women with PCOS.

Data has also shown that with fresh embryo transfer when eggs are inseminated and immediately transferred into the uterus, South Asians had a significantly lower live birth rate compared with Caucasians. But in frozen eggs, there was no difference, suggesting South Asian women may need more time to adjust their hormones after ovarian stimulation in order to produce a healthier uterine lining.

While specific ethnicity data remains scant, it’s worth discussing with your doctor the optimal path for your circumstances.

He cautioned that the process can be demanding both physically and emotionally. “It’s important for women to understand that not all cycles of IVF result in pregnancy, and it may take several attempts to achieve a successful result.” He advises having a strong support system in place.

Dr. Pai also noted that IVF does carry medical risks, like multiple pregnancies or ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. “It’s important to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about these potential risks and how they can be managed,” he says. Knowing what to expect and having your doctor address concerns upfront can help you prepare in mind and body for the IVF process.

THE STEP-BY-STEP IVF PROCESS

The first part of the process typically begins with a couple of weeks of hormone therapy to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs. This is followed by an egg retrieval procedure, where the eggs are collected from the woman’s body and mixed with sperm in a laboratory setting. The resulting embryos are then implanted into the uterus.

The hormone injections used to stimulate the ovaries allow for multiple eggs to mature, as opposed to the single egg naturally selected in an ovulation cycle. Retrieving numerous eggs maximizes the chances that several will successfully fertilize and develop into quality embryos for transfer. But women should go in knowing the possible side effects during this time. “The process can be physically and emotionally demanding, with possible side effects from medications including bloating, mood swings, and fatigue,” cautions Dr. Pai.

PREPARING FOR THE EMOTIONAL TOLL

Along with the physical side effects, the emotional stress and pressure on the procedure can feel overwhelming— especially if you undergo multiple cycles toward trying to get pregnant.

Kapur says it’s important to manage expectations and emotions during IVF, and give yourself guidelines. “First, have a deadline. This could be in terms of number of cycles, a specific financial figure, or even a certain date, or your age,” she says. “I know this sounds a bit crazy when you’re desperate for a child, but do you really need to put the rest of your life on hold for a super long time?”

She explained that an open-ended process prolongs stress and heartbreak. Setting limits allows for resetting life plans if IVF is unsuccessful. “Second, don’t over-stress. Some amount of stress during the process is natural and expected, but don’t go crazy in your efforts to conceive,” she continues. She advised main-

taining normal routines as much as possible.

Finally, she emphasized accepting the lack of guarantees. “Remember that no doctor, no matter how famous or qualified, or expensive, can guarantee anything,” she said. She said to remember that even failed IVF does not preclude the possibility of “rainbow babies” later conceived naturally against the odds.

CONSIDERING CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS

Dr. Pai also addressed the cultural misconceptions that some families still harbor about IVF. “Despite the medical advances, there persists a cultural stigma associated with IVF in certain societies. Some people may hold misconceptions or lack understanding about the process,” he acknowledges.

To help family members see IVF more positively, he advises focusing on its goals and benefits. “When explaining the benefits of IVF to family members who may not understand or endorse this path, emphasize the core aim of this procedure—to help couples have a child who may not be able to conceive naturally,” he explains. Noting positive outcomes for others who did IVF can also help change perceptions.

“Choosing IVF is a personal decision taken after thoughtful consideration and medical consultation,” says Dr. Pai. “It does not devalue or undermine the concept of natural pregnancy.” Reframing IVF as an empowering option, rather than a last resort, can help combat stigma.

Kapur only shared her IVF journey with her mother and a handful of close friends to avoid added scrutiny. But open communication with loved ones can often ease the process. “Inviting family members to join in consultations or meetings with healthcare providers could provide them with factual information and dispel any myths they may hold about IVF,” says Dr. Pai.

While IVF can seem like an isolating and private experience, sharing your story with family and friends can help generate invaluable support.

EMPOWERED BY KNOWLEDGE

For many, IVF offers a beacon of hope after natural conception proves challenging. Seeking lifestyle adjustments, supportive healthcare, emotional outlets, and family understanding all pave the path toward becoming an empowered IVF patient. While IVF does not guarantee instant success, knowledge, resilience and community help couples navigate the journey. By better understanding this process, women can move forward on building their families with greater clarity and compassion.

IVF By the Numbers

1 million

Number of babies born in the United States between 1987 and 2015 through the use of IVF or other assisted reproductive technologies.

21.3%

The chance of having a full term, normal birth weight and live birth per cycle using fresh embryos from nondonor eggs for women younger than 35.

$10,000

The average cost of a single IVF cycle in the U.S. More states are passing laws requiring insurance companies to cover the procedure in cases of infertility, but many couples still pay out of pocket.

1 to 2%

The percentage of all U.S. births annually via IVF.

Source: Penn Medicine

I Married a Coconut – Priti Tanna

IMarried a Coconut intertwines Priti’s transformative quest, resonating with immigrant parents guiding their children’s future, individuals challenging societal norms, and those seeking a profound understanding of themselves. By recounting her own experiences, Priti sets ablaze a vivid symphony of motivation and authentic self-revelation, a poignant reminder that the power to forge an extraordinary path resides within the core of our being.

As a first-generation Indian American, Priti Tanna navigated the challenging interplay of traditional Indian values and the modern American lifestyle, seeking her place of belonging. I Married a Coconut intertwines Priti’s transformative quest, resonating with individuals challenging societal norms, and those seeking a profound understanding of themselves. Priti Tanna has come to understand that embracing duality is the key to achieving liberation from the imaginary life we often imprison ourselves within—as well as

the external expectations imposed upon us by family, culture, and society. In showing up authentically and not playing a role regardless of where she finds herself, Priti shows others that there is always a way to move toward something better.

SEEMA’S VIEW:

I Married a Coconut by Priti Tanna offers a heartwarming journey of cultural exploration and personal growth, wrapped in a delightful narrative that explores love transcending boundaries.

A THREE-COURSE DIWALI MEAL WITH A TWIST

The festival of lights is around the corner and celebrating with food with a new age twist will make for a happy table.

During Diwali, people of adiverse backgrounds come together to commemorate the triumph of light over darkness. The amalgamation of Indian and Western culinary elements in food serves as a symbolic representation of the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and traditions, echoing the spirit of togetherness that defines Diwali. India has many traditions to celebrate this festival but food is always an equaliser. Here is a three-course meal that you can try to add a zing to your celebration.

• Bindu Gopal Rao •

Gorgonzola and Kafir Lime Tikka courtesy Supriya Bhattacharyya , Sous Chef, Taj Fort Aguada, Goa

“Gorgonzola malai tikka with Kaffir lime is a curated recipe for Diwali as few in some parts of India go for a hunt. We can always use and change the ingredients as per the feasibility of one’s liking. Here at Taj, we have curated the same keeping the tradition alive as Diwali comes with a New Year of prosperity and wealth.”

FOR THE FIRST MARINATION

● Chicken leg boneless 500 grams

● Ginger garlic paste 50 grams

● Lemon Juice 10 ml

● Salt to taste 10 grams

FOR THE SECOND MARINATION

● Hung curd 150 grams

● Gorgonzola cheese 15 grams

● Cardamom Powder 5 grams

● Black pepper powder 10 grams

● Chop ginger 10 grams

● Green chilli 20 grams

● Coriander root 40 grams

● Kaffir lime leaf 15 grams

● Mint leaf 20 grams

● Processed cheese 30 grams

METHOD

● Wash and drain the chicken and cut it into bite sizes (4045 grams).

● Marinate with ginger garlic paste, add salt and lemon juice in it. Keep it in the freezer for 30 minutes.

● For the second marination add the kaffir lime leaves, green chilies, fresh mint leaves, fresh coriander, cardamom powder, black pepper, and ginger garlic paste along with gorgonzola and cheese, and mix it well.

● Add yogurt to a bowl along with the marination, add the pre-marinated chicken, and let it marinate for at least an hour in the fridge.

● Thread the marinated chicken in the skewer,

grill over barbeque or in the clay oven.

● Brush the chicken with the remaining marinade while cooking, and brush with butter once cooked to elevate flavor.

● Dry some kaffir lime leaf and drizzle over it.

● Cooked till well done, serve hot with sweet-spicy-tangy chutney.

Root Vegetable Pithivier with Pistachio Nizami Gravy courtesy

Rajender Goud , Sous Chef, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

“Diwali serves as a catalyst for culinary creativity, and this dish is a testament to that notion. It ingeniously incorporates traditional Indian ingredients and techniques, presenting them in a distinctive and imaginative manner that beautifully highlights the culinary talent and innovation often sparked by Diwali celebrations. This dish is a burst of delightful flavors, catering to vegetarian preferences, while also showcasing a captivating visual elegance. Moreover, it pays homage to culinary traditions, symbolizes abundance, and embodies the values of inclusivity and unity. This dish encapsulates the very essence of Diwali, making it an unforgettable and deeply meaningful addition to any Diwali celebration.”

INGREDIENTS

For the root vegetable base

● Ghee 2 tbsp

● Cumin seeds ½ tsp

● Onions, chopped medium cup,

● Carrot, cut into dice half cup

● Ginger garlic paste 1 tsp

● Water 1 tsp

● Butter 2 tbsp

● Black pepper, crushed 1 tsp

● Cumin powder 1 tsp

● Red chili powder 1 tsp

● Boiled beetroot diced half cup

● Tomato cubes 1

● Onion cubes 1

● Potato cubes half cup

● Sweet potato cubes 6 tbsp

● Turmeric powder 1 tsp

● Coriander powder 1 tsp

● Cottage Cheese 6 tbsp

● Colored peppers 5 tbsp

● Coriander leaves 2 tbsp

● Salt to taste

FOR THE PITHIVIER

● Puff Pastry ½ kilogram

FOR THE NIZAMI GRAVY

● Soaked pistachio 1 cup

● Onion paste 1 cup

● Ginger-garlic paste 4 tbsp

● Whole coconuts, grated oil 2

● Bay leaves 4

● Curd 1 cup

● Green chili 8 nos.

● Coriander leaves 6 tbsp

● Fresh cream 5 tbsp

● Salt to taste

FOR GRINDING

● Cumin 2 tsp

● Poppy Seeds 4 tbsp

● Green cardamom 10 nos.

● Cloves 5 nos.

● Cinnamon piece 2 inch

● Dry chilies 15

● Turmeric powder 1.5 tsp

METHOD

● To make the root vegetable base, add some ghee in a pan, followed by cumin seeds, onion, and ginger-garlic paste. Once the onions turn brown, add tomatoes. As they soften, add some water, and let it simmer. Add carrots and cook them until they are half done, then add the potato and sweet potato cubes. Sauté the vegetables with some butter, salt, black pepper, cumin powder and red chilli powder. Add rest of the vegetables and toss it well. Garnish with some coriander leaves on top. Make sure the ingredients are cooked until dry.

Millet Gujiya courtesy Jyot Sing

Rana , Executive Sous Chef, Fairmont Jaipur

“This Millet Gujiya recipe is exceptionally special for its fusion of nutritional consciousness and traditional flavors. The use of nutrient-rich millet flour, combined with a luxurious filling of roasted khoya, cardamom, saffron, raisins, and assorted nuts, creates a harmonious taste that delights the senses. It’s adherence to time honored preparation methods pays homage to India’s rich culinary heritage, while the artisanal craftsmanship involved in shaping each Gujiya adds a personal touch. The elegant presentation, featuring a drizzle of honey, silver leaf, and saffron, transforms this dessert into a visual masterpiece suitable for special occasions. This recipe’s versatility, blending tradition and innovation, reflects its cultural significance while catering to modern dietary preferences, making it a truly special and cherished culinary creation.”

INGREDIENTS

For the dough

● Millet flour 200 grams

● Ghee 20 ml

● Water 1 cup

FOR THE FILLING

● Khoya (mawa) 200 grams

● Cardamom powder a pinch

● Saffron a pinch

● Raisins 50 grams

● Broken cashew nuts 50 grams

● Chopped almonds 50 grams

● Chopped pistachio 50 grams

● Fresh grated coconut 50 grams

METHOD

● To make the filling, roast khoya on low flame till it changes color add cardamom powder, raisins, cashew nuts, almonds, pistachio, and grated coconut. Cook on medium/low flame, stirring occasionally, till the mixture is dry. Divide into 10 portions.

● To prepare the dough, pour ghee into the millet flour. Add water and make it into a stiff dough. Knead the dough. Cover for 10-15 minutes. Knead dough once again. Divide into 10 equal size balls.

● Roll each ball into a flat round. Place one portion of the filling, fold it over and shape, sealing the edges with little water. Place in an oven and bake till golden brown.

● Once it gets golden brown color drizzle little honey covered with sliver leaf and saffron plate nicely and serve.