Podcast Summary: True Fiction Project - S5 Ep4: "Balancing Act"

Introduction

In Episode 5, Season 4 of the True Fiction Project, host Renita Hora welcomes Miel Sehgal, a Toronto-based writer native to Mumbai, to discuss her insightful essay titled "Balancing Act." This episode, released on August 13, 2024, delves deep into themes of identity, cultural assimilation, family heritage, and the delicate balance between maintaining one's roots while embracing a multicultural environment.

Guest Introduction: Miel Sehgal

Miel Sehgal serves on the advisory board of the Sanctuary Nature Foundation and was the managing editor of Sanctuary Asia magazine. With a rich background in writing, particularly in nature and wildlife, Miel ventured into creative nonfiction with her essay "Balancing Act." Renita highlights their long-standing friendship of over 53 years, setting a personal tone for the conversation.

Exploring Identity and Place

The discussion begins with Miel reflecting on her multicultural upbringing in Mumbai. She states:

“There are some threads that come through regardless of place, and there are others that are deeply influenced by place.” ([01:00])

Miel emphasizes that while the cosmopolitan nature of Mumbai fostered a multicultural identity, deeper familial roots—such as food and rituals—stem from ancestral origins, transcending geographical boundaries. This duality shapes a complex personal identity, balancing between inherited traditions and the influences of the surrounding environment.

Cultural Assimilation: Losses and Gains

Renita and Miel explore the implications of moving from India to Toronto, discussing the inevitable losses and gains associated with cultural assimilation. Miel shares:

“There was a lot of loss. But there are things we gain.” ([13:57])

She elaborates on how adopting English and Western educational practices provided opportunities but also distanced her from her native languages and cultural rituals. This blend creates a unique, albeit challenging, identity that navigates between preserving heritage and embracing new societal norms.

Rituals and Their Impact

The conversation shifts to the role of rituals in personal and cultural identity. Renita brings up the mixed feelings associated with traditional Hindu rituals, particularly in the context of patriarchy and personal loss. Miel responds by sharing her family's more progressive approach:

“In my particular family, what I feel blessed about is that the patriarch, who is Pitaji, didn't embody any of these kinds of values that we're discussing right now.” ([17:57])

This highlights how familial dynamics can influence one's relationship with cultural rituals, sometimes mitigating negative aspects like patriarchal constraints and fostering a more inclusive environment.

Yoga and Intergenerational Relationships

Miel discusses the integral role of yoga in bridging cultural gaps and connecting generations. She remarks:

“Yoga is one of those ways that would be accessible for a lot of people from the diaspora because it's so predominant in, I wouldn't say Western world in all cultures.” ([19:06])

Her grandfather, Pitaji, embodies this integration, using yoga not just as physical exercise but as a holistic way of life that fosters intergenerational connections. This practice serves as a conduit for maintaining cultural identity while adapting to new environments.

Themes of "Balancing Act"

Renita delves into the essence of Miel's essay, "Balancing Act," which narrates her grandfather's life and her own journey of cultural integration. Miel explains the title:

“Balancing Act is… what we all need to do, particularly those of us who are traversing different cultures, different countries… It is all a balancing act of how are we Indian, how are we Western, how are we our own culture?” ([22:37])

The essay explores the synthesis of Eastern and Western philosophies, the preservation of family heritage, and the continuous evolution of personal identity.

Fiction Segment: "Balancing Act"

Following the interview, the podcast transitions to the fictional piece inspired by Miel's essay. "Balancing Act" weaves a narrative that intertwines personal anecdotes with broader cultural reflections. Key highlights include:

• Grandfather's Legacy: Pitaji's dedication to yoga and his role as a storyteller who bridges generations.

  “He carried the true essence of yoga, thousands of miles away from my country of origin…” ([35:46])

• Cultural Dichotomy: Miel's internal struggle between embracing her Indian heritage and assimilating into Western society.

  “On our own cultural bits between us.” ([23:29])

• Intergenerational Bonds: The profound relationship between Pitaji and his great-grandchildren, showcasing the importance of maintaining familial ties across generations.

The fiction piece encapsulates the core themes discussed, offering listeners a vivid portrayal of balancing cultural identities amidst changing environments.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Renita inviting listeners to engage with the True Fiction Project by sharing their stories or contributing their writing. Miel expresses her gratitude for the deep and meaningful conversation, highlighting the importance of discussing cultural balance and personal growth.

Where to Read More

Listeners interested in Miel Sehgal's work can find "Balancing Act" published in the Hamilton Arts and Letters magazine. She also plans to release more pieces in the future, so staying connected through her channels is encouraged.

Final Thoughts

"Balancing Act" serves as a poignant exploration of navigating multicultural identities, the preservation of familial heritage, and the continuous journey of self-discovery. Through Miel Sehgal's personal narratives and fictional storytelling, the episode offers a rich, engaging experience that resonates with anyone grappling with similar cultural dynamics.

Notable Quotes

• On Multicultural Identity:
  Miel Sehgal ([01:00]): “There are some threads that come through regardless of place, and there are others that are deeply influenced by place.”

• On Cultural Loss and Gain:
  Miel Sehgal ([13:57]): “There was a lot of loss. But there are things we gain.”

• On Progressive Family Dynamics:
  Miel Sehgal ([17:57]): “In my particular family, what I feel blessed about is that the patriarch, who is Pitaji, didn't embody any of these kinds of values that we're discussing right now.”

• On Yoga's Role in Cultural Integration:
  Miel Sehgal ([19:06]): “Yoga is one of those ways that would be accessible for a lot of people from the diaspora because it's so predominant in, I wouldn't say Western world in all cultures.”

• On the Essence of Balancing Act:
  Miel Sehgal ([22:37]): “It is all a balancing act of how are we Indian, how are we Western, how are we our own culture?”

Listen to the Episode

For a deeper dive into Miel Sehgal's journey and the transformative power of storytelling, tune into True Fiction Project S5 Ep4: "Balancing Act."