My desi mom has been breaking stereotypes for so long, I don’t even know where to begin. Be it travelling the world and working in the ‘70s, to being a pro-Instagrammer in 2020, there’s very little my mother cannot do. Although her savage replies and ‘ma-wali tension’ need to chill out, I’d give it to her for being a Boomer thriving in the millennial world!
Not to mention, all our moms are badasses in some way or the other. From lowkey fighting patriarchy every goddamn day to ensuring their kids unlearn all the mistakes they’ve made, is not an easy task, especially as a desi mom. So kudos to all of you out there, my mom is still the coolest. ( Haha, jk jk)
Here are a few things she’s mastered. BRB, crying proud tears.
1. Doing photoshoots for the ’gram
Inspired by Sabyasachi’s straight-faced models, my mom too, dressed herself up in an organza floral saree which she’s customized. How gorgeous were the photos?
Credit: Author’s own.
Credit: Author’s own.
Credit: Author’s own.
2. Having hacks for all skin and hair problems
This is a special forte for all desi mothers and grandmothers and they love it when we come to them with problems they can easily solve. Like a concoction of onion juice and curry leaves is good for hair fall. Who knew?
Credit: Giphy/ByPriyaShah
3. She’s watching K-Dramas, watched ‘365’ while gushing about Michele Morrone
Talk about binge-watching and my mother has done it all. ALL! From being a huge fan of Lee Minh-Ho to watching Mirzapur 2, there’s not a genre or a show that this lady has skipped. Additionally, I will also find her stalking these heartthrobs on Instagram just like you and I.
Credit: Giphy/Luv Films
4. She’s a pro at Instagram
My mom is the poster-child of Instagram. Not only does she look out for the latest saree trends and influencers but also keeps a very, very close tab on all followers, stories and posts both my sister ( she’s an influencer so) and I make. This would include knowing exactly when 3 new followers have started following or 6 followers have unfollowed.
Credit: Giphy/NAACP Awards
5. A customised saree collection
My desi mom DIYs her fashion. My mom has her own collection of customised sarees which she’s worked on for years. From putting new paars on old sarees to revamping a whole saree into a pant suit for my sister, there’s no one who knows fabric, designing and ethnic aesthetic like my mom.
Credit: Author’s own
Credit: Author’s own
6. Knows about my relationships, past and present
My mom has never had the same boundaries most Indian parents have when it comes to dating, relationships and sex. She’s always maintained that all of it is necessary as a process of growing up and never placed any restrictions. She knows about my habits like drinking, smoking etc. And for her non-judgemental attitude, I am seriously grateful!
Credit: Giphy/India
Lead image credit: Author’s own
