In this episode, we interview special guest Leena Pendharkar. Leena is an award-winning writer and director and is an associate professor at Loyola Marymount University's School of Film & Television. Directing both short films and feature films, Leena has made her way through the festival circuit with her films, 20 Weeks, Raspberry Magic, and more. Leena has also made her debut in television directing two episodes of the series, Hello Jack! The Kindness Show! for Apple TV+. Discussing her experiences in the film and television industry, we look at how we currently navigate this space as women of colour and share our thoughts on the changes that need to be made moving forward.
In this episode, we discuss the psychological impacts of stereotypes and lacking representation in the media. Sharing our own experiences, we look at how the current state of South Asian representation has affected our own self-esteem and beliefs about our culture. By exposing the deep negative impacts these "harmless" microaggressions have, we highlight how this extends to culture appropriation and the frustrations many minorities have with others taking part in certain aspects of our cultures.
In this episode, we interview our special guest Arnab Banerji. Arnab is an associate professor of theatre history and dramatic literature at Loyola Marymount University. He focuses on the study of contemporary Indian performance and in this episode, we dive into the way we teach theatre and theatre history. Discussing his experiences as a South Asian in the industry and academia, we talk about the growth we have made and also the ways we can diversify theatre education.
In this introductory episode, we discuss what it means to be a South Asian and the representation of this identity in the media. We explore the current stereotypes, roles, and storylines that exist and how this shapes what people know about South Asians. Discussing the lack of opportunities in the industry both as creators and actors, we look at the changes that need to be made moving forward.