A peek into my typical Tuesday—full of chai, clutter, and unconditional love.

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Yesterday’s topics ranged from “Why the stock market is crashing” to “Why the new neighbor walks her dog at odd hours.” In an Indian family, no stone is left unturned.

There is a popular joke in India: “In Western countries, an ‘emergency contact’ is a friend. In India, your emergency contact is the neighbor’s aunt who yelled at you for not eating enough breakfast.”

But at the end of the day, when the lights are off and the only sound is the ceiling fan, I hear my father snoring in the next room and my grandmother whispering her prayers. There is a distinct feeling of belonging that no amount of modern “me time” can replace.

So, if you are struggling with your Indian family today—embrace the noise. Drink the chai. Hide the last piece of mithai for yourself. And always, always call your mom before she calls you.