FOR THE CULTURE
What started out as a regular old photography assignment actually got me thinking of the message I could convey with this idea. Growing up, I despised my heritage. I did not want to be Bengali, or wear the clothes, or worse: be seen doing it at all. It was hard balancing growing up in a brown household but also going day by day in a completely different environment.
Even though I am way better about this now, I still realize that no matter how old someone is, people still struggle with embracing their culture. It is hard, especially if you are second generation living in westernized society. Sometimes I still find myself disconnected from my cultural identity, especially being away from home, which is why it is so so so important to never forget where you came from. Do not let anyone take that away from you.
Models:
the beautiful Sabira Ahmed and Zumanah Mahmud.
Location:
Plfugerville Park, Plfugerville, Texas
The Bengali under the American
(Or the American behind the Bengali?)
LEARNING TO EMBRACE THE WHOLE YOU
Growing up in a country where other cultures are not always appreciated (most times, appropriated), it is easy to also feel the same towards yourself. It should not have to feel this way though. Be proud of all of yourself, of where you came from. It is totally worth it. Do not let someone's own insecurities about their own culture (or lack thereof) keep you from appreciating your own :)
