Masala reflects on the progress of the Indian community.
BY AIDEN JEWELLE GONZALES , AMORNRAT SIDHU , DOLLY KOGHAR , RUBY SIRINARANG, AND NIMARTA NARANG
The pace at which the world evolves around us can take us by surprise. 15 years ago, when Masala Magazine was just a fledgling publication, with the dream of being the voice of the Thai-Indian community, so many things that we take for granted today did not exist or were still in their infancy: streaming barely existed, and Netflix was mostly known as a DVD rental company; Grab did not exist and neither did the scores of motorbike taxis that are a quintessential part of Sukhumvit today; there was no EmQuartier nor Iconsiam; PromptPay wouldn’t be introduced for another eight years; and nobody would have dreamed that Thailand would be the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise cannabis.
But, of course, there are things in this beloved Kingdom that would always stay the same: the sense of community among the Indian diaspora in Thailand; the rich tapestry of culture that each subsequent generation continues to uphold in their own way; and even the small things, such as the nostalgic smell of pad krapao filtering through the air and the indomitable Bangkok traffic.
On the dawn of Masala’s 15th Anniversary, we’ve looked back on the ways that the Indian community has progressed: our
changes, triumphs, and achievements, while expressing our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has gotten us thus far, in big and small ways.
THE CULINARY LANDSCAPE
While Bangkok has always been known as a culinary haven in the region, and indeed, a destination for foodies from around the world to enjoy; the presence of Indian food in the city and the country at large has grown exponentially. 15 years ago, renowned Indian restaurants in the city, such as longtime favourite Royal IndiaS, were few and far between, and many were considered casual dining spots. Only a few fine-dining staples existed, including beloved haunts such as Indus and Rang Mahal.
The integration of Indian food into the upper echelons of Thailand’s dining scene has been a true treat, and not just for our palate. The city is now bursting with Indian culinary options, not just from North India or South India, but cuisine from all over the country has been celebrated, with fireside and coastal cuisine recently making their mark. Indian restaurants have been eagerly recognised not just by local Thais but on an international scale, with the number of Michelin-starred Indian restaurants in Thailand growing significantly. Chef Garima Arora, who is the first Indian woman to win a Michelin star, now boasts two stars with Gaa, while both Inddee and Haoma have also been recognised with their own stars (with the latter also holding a Michelin Green Star for its efforts towards sustainability). Other restaurants in the Michelin Guide span Punjab Grill, Indus, Tiffin by La Sala in Phuket, Jhol, and Ms.Maria and Mr.Singh. Moreover, world-renowned restaurant Gaggan Anand is in the top 10 of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list.
Vegetarian and vegan options have also flourished in the last few years, and no longer is it the case that Indian families only eat home in fear of not finding anything appropriate – now, the options are endless, with an array of cuisines beyond just Thai and Indian.
POLITICS
While Thai-Indians have been an integral part of the fabric of Thai society for decades, the journey towards true acceptance has seen considerable strides in the last 15 years, and political representation has been no small part of that. At one point, Indian politicians, representing the interests of the community and promoting Indian values and culture among the Thai people, would have been a pipe dream. Now, while it still rightfully brings a warm glow of pride to see desi faces among our political representatives, it is no longer a surprise, thanks in part to the efforts of, and representation by, community members such as Rahm Khuruwanit and Nikorn Sachdev.
Thai politicians, too, have embraced the unique perspectives that Thai-Indians bring to the table, and are trying to foster better relationships not just with the Indian diaspora here, but with India itself. In 2023, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), together with the Vishwa Hindu Parishad Association Thailand (VHP) and the Indian Association of Thailand (IAT), hosted the first-ever official Diwali celebration in the iconic Phahurat Road, a historic, three-day occasion that had the support of Bangkok’s governor Chadchart Sittipunt and several sponsors. Moreover, Thailand and India’s government have both announced closer ties in several ways, including visa-free entries for both citizens to each other’s respective countries.
“It’s true that change is often frightening, but if there’s one thing the Thai-Indian community has proved, it’s that their resilience, sense of identity, and love for each other will carry them through – perhaps different, but all the better for it.
Here’s to another 15 years of changes!”
BUSINESS
15 years ago, while the Thai-Indian community were already lauded as keen businessmen, only a few industries were considered the purview of the community, spanning textiles, jewellery, and the import/export of select goods. Sons were often expected to – and did – work in the family business, often in the above mentioned industries.
In 2024, the Thai-Indian presence of all genders across a range of industries has grown, and Thai-Indians are showing their expertise in hospitality, F&B, medicine and the wellness field, engineering, manufacturing, technology, energy, and more. A growing number of the younger generation are making waves in the corporate field beyond just their family businesses, while some of the top managers and C-Suite names in some of Thailand’s most recognised brands are desi names.
GENERAL ACCEPTANCE
The storied and complicated history of the Indian diaspora in Thailand has many origins, some of them fraught. For those who have been here 15 years ago and even before, acceptance has been hard won, and misunderstandings would often abound between the Indian diaspora and the local Thai population. It’s been a true pleasure to see how this has changed drastically in 2024. In the last few years, there’s been a growing appetite not just for Indian cuisine, but Indian culture – more and more Thai travellers are discovering the joys of visiting India, while shows such as Gangubai (2022), Indian Matchmaking (2020- ), and even the recent Heeramandi (2024) have cultivated a dedicated following among Thai audiences who wish to know more about the beauty of Indian culture and style. More Thais are sending their kids to India to study, while conversely, more Thai-Indians are attending school in Thailand rather than going to boarding school in India.
Among the community itself, acceptance of change has also grown. Many families are adopting different parenting styles, and have become more accepting of smaller or different family units, and different professions, orientations, and genders. While the community continues to keep our traditions alive, we are doing so in different and modern ways, helped by the youth who have discovered new ways to be proud of their heritage, spanning modern Bollywood dances to desi artists who have transcended musical genres.
It’s true that change is often frightening, but if there’s one thing the Thai-Indian community has proved, it’s that their resilience, sense of identity, and love for each other will carry them through – perhaps different, but all the better for it. Here’s to another 15 years of changes!
DOLLY KOGHAR | 72
Homemaker and Freelance Writer
Although a true-blue Thai-Indian, I was away from the Kingdom for most of my life, only to return to my Motherland, Thailand, just about when Masala was emerging on the scene of publications. That alone was a very bold and huge step towards giving a voice to our Indian diaspora, both within the community itself, and as a candid introduction of ourselves to the rest of the world. But more and above, the publication has brought to light not only how far the youth of our community, of both genders, have embedded themselves into every field of work and profession, but how successfully they have claimed their chosen fields as their own. As an old-school granny, I am both surprised and proud. It also makes my chest swell to see our girls and women think and do things with a confidence and poise that is equal to none.
It’s also gratifying to see that our community has become more aware of health and weight issues, especially with science promising us longer lives. Folks at my age, who’d earlier retire to the couch in front of the ‘idiot box,’ are now staying active and have become more open to taking on physically-challenging activities so as to stay alert and self-reliant for longer. Also, times have changed and the earlier era when sons lived with the parents post-marriage is now more or less a thing of the past, making it even more important to maintain an energetic and robust body and mind. Despite the changes around the world, in Thailand, and even within our own homes, we as a community have thrived. We’ve held onto our spiritualities and stayed committed to doing right by our conscience, and may we always do so!
TARANJIT NARANG | 53
Homemaker
As an avid traveller, especially in the past 10 years since all three of my children finished university, I’ve been travelling not only abroad, but I’ve also been getting to know Thailand more. In the last 15 years, I’ve noticed a marked evolution in the way Thai- Indians have embraced ‘café culture’ and eating out. It seems like there has been an increase of cafés and new food spaces all around Thailand, but that is also because we learn about them quickly through social media. With the exception of the times during the COVID-19 pandemic, I’ve noticed how restaurants across the city now really focus on the aesthetic of the environment, catering to the rise of social media figures and influencers who come to the cafés, and this has influenced the Thai-Indian community a lot. Before, most people would simply eat food at home, especially if they were vegetarian, but nowadays, so many of us share updates with each other by sending each other social media reels about new openings or events – my friends and I certainly do! Going out has now become a social endeavour.
I’ve also noticed that, like me, women in their middle age have taken to travelling more and engaging in ‘friend trips’ around the country and Asia. There is more of an emphasis now to spend time with not just family, but with our social groups. Our friends have become family as well.
NIRAN SACHDEV | 31
Designer and University Lecturer
Over the past 15 years, Bangkok has evolved into a cultural mosaic, where diverse communities and niche subcultures thrive side by side. The city’s people, once predominantly Thai, now represent a rich tapestry of nationalities, lifestyles, and perspectives, each adding their own flavour to the city’s vibrant mix. This influx of global influences has not only broadened the cultural landscape but has also encouraged Bangkokians to explore and embrace new ideas, leading to a more open and dynamic society.
In neighbourhoods like Soi Nana in Chinatown and Hua Lamphong, you can see this shift in full bloom. Once a quiet, nondescript street, Soi Nana has transformed into a cultural hub where art galleries, craft cocktail bars, and eclectic eateries coexist, drawing a crowd that ranges from local creatives to international visitors. This is just one example of the many pockets of niche cultures that have emerged throughout Bangkok, each with its own distinct identity – whether it’s the vintage retro vibes in Ari, the bohemian energy in Ekkamai, or the indie music scene in Thong Lo. These neighbourhoods have become gathering places for those seeking something beyond the mainstream, reflecting a city that is increasingly defined by its diversity and cultural richness. If anything, this is a microcosm of how the youth of the Thai-Indian community today are often beyond labels, defined by influences beyond just their Indian roots.
PUSHPA KHIMESARA | 68
Homemaker
I have been in Thailand for the last 45 years, and I’ve noticed that today, the Thai-Indian community is playing a vital role in the Kingdom. I have observed remarkably-positive changes in the past 15 years. Thai- Indians have increasingly-embraced Thai culture, and some also speak Thai as their first language and eat Thai food as their cuisine of choice.
These days, many Thai people consider Thai-Indians as intelligent community members, with great business acumen. This enhances respect towards Indian and Hindu culture. Being socially active, I notice more respect and positivity towards Indians in private parties hosted by high-ranking officials and the elite.
Most Thai restaurants are serving vegetarian food, which attracts vegetarian Thai-Indians to go out more with their families, unlike before when options were scarce. This also solves food issues for Indian tourists who prefer vegetarian food. Moreover, new restaurants and hotels have come up during the last 15 years, owned by Thai-Indians, and the community has continued to support them. We can also now visit more Indian food festivals and exhibitions organised by Thai Indians. For example, I am extremely impressed with the events organised by Masala, who is also celebrating their successful 15th Anniversary.
The participation of Thai Indians is quite visible in the Thai elections and politics now. Thai politicians join religious festivals and activities such as the Holi festival, Diwali Fair, International Yoga Day, and Ganesh Mahotsav. Thai-Indians are also achieving success due to increased business opportunities with India. More trading and joint ventures between the two countries will enhance the reputation of Thai Indians.
AMORNRAT SIDHU | 34
Standard 6 Teacher
Since I currently live in Botswana, when I visit Bangkok, I don’t recognise it at times. Thank God for permanent landmarks such as the Benchasiri Park and Siam Paragon, for I can no longer rely on small boutique shops and restaurants to greet me on my way like they did when I used to walk to work or my Nanima’s house.
It’s the instability of it that gets me. While Isao still seems to be an anchor of Sukhumvit Soi 31, I now wonder, for how long? Cherubin, the shop that sold my beloved Nuts about chocolate cake has been replaced by a massage parlour. Meanwhile, the branch of Asia Herbs Association that I frequented often, the one opposite my home, shut down – seemingly with no warning.
It feels like so much has changed, and so quickly. EmSphere has changed the feel of my street and neighbourhood, and its bright lights illuminate my room, despite the closed blackout curtains. What I used to love about my soi has faded, only to be replaced with new pros and cons. These changes seem to be a staple of Bangkok now, one that I must accept. The nostalgia of Bangkok is disappearing, but the novelty of it is something I find intriguing yet overwhelming.
As I find these changes overwhelming and too fast-paced for my liking, I feel that Thai-Indians are embracing these changes with excitement and optimism. They are ever-ready to experiment with new venues, new ventures and new adventures, not only with their taste buds, but also with the indomitable entrepreneurial spirit that resides within the community. I admire this a lot.
