Growing up in Chennai was quite an experience. I made friends from a different cultural background and learned how to respect diversity. Especially because there is so much a Tamilian bestie can teach you, from her strong stance on social issues to her no-judgment attitude. My friends back home in Chennai have taught me some beautiful things that I can never stop cherishing (Delhi friends did too, and that’s another article).
I’m missing her more these days since POPxo is now available in six languages, including Tamil. On the launch day when I was doing a video, I had a fun conversation with her and I remembered all the times she helped me out, like she did with my script and dialogues a day ago.
So, here’s how having a Tamilian BFF has made me a better person through my 20 years in the city.
1. The Food Is A Treat
Idli, dosas, vada, thayir sadam, the list goes on. My sleepovers at her home were always fun because the breakfast was a festive treat. And don’t even get me started on the chutneys…
2. How To NGAF
To give too many f*cks is legit not in my macha‘s dictionary. Since she doesn’t care about pleasing anyone, except her parents, her chill is something that always inspires me.
3. Slangs Are Bae
Macha is literally my favourite word now and I can’t stop myself from saying da anymore. Her slang is now my slangs and I have embraced her vetti behaviour with open arms.
4. No Judgement Whatsoever
I don’t think my Tamilian bestie has ever judged me for the clothes I wear or the obnoxious Punjabi music I listen to. Although she might squint at the volume once in a while, I know she accepts the cultural differences we have.
5. Life Is Easy Breezy
Their simple lifestyle and easy nature rubs off on you. You begin to realise that there is no point in showing off and being pricey. My bestie taught me how to be low maintenance and I love her for it.
6. Translating My Movies
Growing up in Chennai, I fell in love with various Tamil actors over the years. And she fed fuel to my crushes by translating the Tamil movies we watched at our weekend sleepovers. Have you seen Dulquer Salman?
7. Her Sense Of Independence Inspires Me
Not just another stereotype, Tamilian parents do encourage their kids to be independent at a young age. And they don’t hold back from sending their kids across borders to get the education they wish to pursue. My bestie officially made me fearless.
8. Cultural Overload
Learning about different cultures, celebrating festivals like Pongal and Golu and savouring yummy food when I was invited to her house was an unforgettable experience.
GIFs: Giphy, Instagram
POPxo is now available in six languages: English, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi and Bangla.
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