Originally posted by: return_to_hades
I use the term desi because the term subcontinental sounds too weird, and I am lazy to name every country. We do share many common cultural aspects and watch the same shows in the subcontinent. I don't think the term should be taken negatively, unless a non-desi uses it with condescending intent.
As for the tone, I do not see anything belittling about it. Its pretty straightforward to the point. In fact I actually defended desi culture from being called 'double standard' as there is a difference between double standards and varied cultural perceptions. But if you perceived the tone to be belittling, I cannot argue that - so it is.
Although, I will admit one of my pet peeves is when people bring up the issue modern and forward vs narrow minded and backward. I think its ok to break things down to say liberal values or conservative values. However, the terms that you used are usually used to evoke strong negative or positive connotations. Usually such terms are brought up being people who like to be judgmental, and get into the whole spiel if desi culture is greater or lesser than western culture. Especially when it comes to such sensitive subjects, I've seen way too many desis go up in arms and get defensive, oh you just think we are backward. So it was an incorrect assumption on my part. that so was the case here too.
However, I'd like to add that even with others; even if they are critical of desi culture in some points that by no means they are looking down on them. So I usually recommend people not to use these terms. I personally have a lot of close friends who adhere to very traditional conservative family values and lifestyles. I would never dare to classify any of these personal choices as backward, old fashioned, or narrow minded and would vehemently object if someone else thinks being liberal gives them a right to do so. Questioning values does not really mean you look down on them. Although, not many (including I) have mastered the art of questioning respectfully.
That being said my parents never shied away from stuff either ( I definitely cannot say the same for my bio teacher) However, we never would talk frankly and openly about some stuff, and I wish we could. Not just me, I know every desi family is different and in their own little way everyone of them is opening up to being more communicative of sensitive issues like physical intimacy and relationships in general. Abroad where desi kids can be bombarded with a radically different sexual culture, parents are taking initiative in understanding that addressing and discussing physical intimacy with kids can be a way of instilling desi perceptions on such issues. And at the same time many need the encouragement to stop treating it as a taboo and deal with it positively.
The bom line is physical intimacy on desi ought to become more or less acceptable. I'd say more so on a youth show. Definitettoly on a kids show and the last thing we want on saas bahu shows is ringa-ring-of-sexual relationships like they do on Soapnet here. If its well done and aesthetic thats good. If its cheap and just for cheap thrills, then its a good point to address how and when physical intimacy can be appropriate inappropriate.
Can i use the red lines as my siggy ? I want people to see it !
Udne Ki Aasha
Veer Hanuman
Anupamaa
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2
