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Welcome to another captivating episode of Global Desi Women, where we dive deep into the traditions, beliefs, and customs that shape our lives. This week, we’re exploring a topic that many of us are familiar with, but few truly understand — Indian superstitions.

From avoiding cracked mirrors to not stepping out when a black cat crosses your path, superstitions are ingrained in the everyday lives of many Indian families. But where did these beliefs come from, and why do they continue to influence the way we live today? More importantly, how do these superstitions affect us—both positively and negatively?

The Origins of Superstitions

Superstitions are often passed down through generations, rooted in ancient customs, religious beliefs, or folk wisdom. Some superstitions are linked to cultural practices meant to protect us, while others have evolved into rituals that no longer serve a clear purpose. We’ll trace the origins of some of the most well-known Indian superstitions, from never sweeping the house after dark to the significance of the evil eye, and explore how these practices came to be.

Superstitions and Daily Life: The Good

Surprisingly, some superstitions serve a useful purpose. In this episode, we’ll explore how certain beliefs are meant to instill positive habits or create a sense of order and control in an uncertain world. For example, the idea of starting a journey or an important task at an auspicious time can help boost confidence and focus, while rituals for warding off evil spirits can create a sense of comfort and protection. We’ll discuss how some superstitions may have developed out of practical needs and how they can sometimes bring families together through shared customs.

The Dark Side of Superstitions: The Bad

While some superstitions can have a comforting or positive impact, others can hold us back. In many cases, superstitions foster fear, anxiety, and even discrimination. We’ll discuss the negative consequences of superstitions, particularly when they become limiting or harmful. How often have people avoided making important decisions or taking risks because of a “bad omen”? We’ll dive into stories where superstitions have led to missed opportunities or even perpetuated harmful stereotypes, such as the belief that certain birthmarks or physical traits are unlucky.

Superstitions in the Modern World

As the world evolves and people become more connected through technology and global perspectives, many traditional beliefs are being challenged. However, superstitions continue to persist, even in modern, educated societies. Why do these beliefs still hold power over us? Is it simply a matter of habit, or do they serve a deeper psychological purpose?

A Balanced Perspective: Tradition vs. Progress

In this episode, we aim to strike a balance between understanding and critiquing these beliefs. While it’s essential to honor the traditions that have shaped our culture, it’s equally important to question whether they serve a purpose in today’s world. We’ll engage in thoughtful discussions about when superstitions become problematic and how individuals can find empowerment by challenging long-held beliefs that no longer benefit them.

Tune in to this enlightening and entertaining episode as we explore the good, the bad, and the mysterious sides of Indian superstitions. You’ll come away with a deeper understanding of how these beliefs influence us, and perhaps even start to question the superstitions that affect your own life!

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Don’t forget to share your

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I’m so excited to bring you this episode where we’re diving into something close to my heart—the Law of Attraction and Vision Boards! As someone who’s a business coach for women entrepreneurs, a real estate broker, and a co-owner of an IT company, I’ve seen how powerful it can be to align your thoughts and intentions to create the life you truly want.
Joining me today are my amazing co-hosts: Bhavana Shelley, a brilliant consultant with incredible strategic insights, Shwetha Reddy, a homemaker who always brings a grounded perspective, and I’m thrilled to welcome our first-time co-host, Bhawna Luthra, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings a wealth of knowledge about mindset and emotional well-being.
We’ll be talking about how to use the Law of Attraction in your daily life, how to make vision boards that actually work, and we’ll even share some inspiring stories from Hindu scriptures, like Lord Krishna’s teachings on focusing on your intentions and letting go of attachment to the outcome. This conversation is all about helping you set powerful intentions for your life and the year ahead.
If you’re ready to take charge of your dreams, stay inspired, and learn actionable tips you can implement right away, this episode is for you. And as always, if you have any questions, thoughts, or even want to give someone a shout-out, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s manifest something amazing together!
Thank you for tuning in—I can’t wait for you to hear this! 💫

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In this episode of Global Desi Women, we dive deep into the complex world of body image and beauty standards in the South Asian community. Beauty ideals in Desi culture are often shaped by traditional expectations, Bollywood influences, and societal pressures, and they can have a lasting impact on self-esteem and mental health, especially for women.
Host Arti Solanki, along with her co-hosts Kavita Jasani and Bhavana Shelley, engages in a candid conversation about the *traditional Indian beauty ideals*, such as fair skin, long hair, and slim body types. They discuss how these ideals are perpetuated through family, community, and media, and how they differ from the beauty standards in Western cultures. The hosts reflect on their own personal experiences, growing up with these pressures and how it shaped their self-image.
A major focus of the discussion is 'colorism'—the preference for lighter skin within the South Asian community. The co-hosts explore how colorism impacts daily life, from family dynamics to professional opportunities. They also touch on the harmful role that skin-lightening products play in reinforcing these ideals and how movements like #UnfairAndLovely are challenging these norms.
Another important topic is body shaming and weight. In many Desi households, casual comments about weight and appearance are common and can often cause emotional distress. The co-hosts share their experiences with body shaming and discuss how the pressure to be slim affects women’s mental health. They also explore the growing trend of body positivity and size inclusivity and how it’s slowly being accepted in the South Asian community.
Hair and facial features are also major aspects of Desi beauty standards. From the expectation of long, straight hair to societal pressure to remove body hair, the hosts talk about how these norms affect women’s grooming choices and self-image. The conversation also touches on the pressure to alter facial features to conform to certain ideals, with the rise of cosmetic procedures and treatments.
The discussion then shifts to the influence of Bollywood and media, highlighting how movies, advertisements, and social media continue to promote narrow standards of beauty. The co-hosts analyze the impact of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, where filters and edited images create unrealistic beauty expectations. They explore how these platforms both perpetuate and challenge beauty standards, with the rise of more diverse representation in recent years.
Throughout the episode, the co-hosts discuss the mental health implications of these beauty pressures, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. They offer advice on how to foster a healthy relationship with body image within Desi families, and encourage positive conversations that promote self-acceptance and self-love.
In the final part of the episode, the hosts explore how the second generation of South Asians is challenging traditional beauty norms and embracing diverse forms of beauty. They celebrate role models, influencers, and movements that advocate for natural beauty, darker skin tones, and body positivity. The episode ends with empowering strategies on how to redefine beauty standards for the next generation and promote confidence, self-love, and inclusivity.
Tune in to this eye-opening conversation about how body image and beauty standards affect individuals in the Desi community and how we can collectively reshape these standards for a more inclusive future.
🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other podcast platforms. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share your thoughts o

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In this powerful episode of Global Desi Women, host Arti Solanki and her insightful co-hosts—Kavita Jasani, Swetha Reddy, and Rhea Palicha—take a deep dive into the often-overlooked topic of Desi women’s health. Together, they embark on a heartfelt and informative discussion about the mental and physical challenges that South Asian women face in their pursuit of well-being, while navigating the complexities of cultural expectations, family responsibilities, and personal aspirations.
Arti Solanki, a trailblazer in empowering women through her work as a business coach and entrepreneur, anchors the conversation with warmth and relatability. She shares her own experiences, blending them with actionable advice for listeners who are striving to achieve balance and health in their lives.
Kavita Jasani brings a wealth of knowledge and practical wisdom to the table, focusing on how Desi women can create healthier lifestyles without compromising their cultural values.
Swetha Reddy, a homemaker with an MBA in Finance and Marketing, sheds light on the art of balancing personal and professional commitments while staying committed to self-care.
Rhea Palicha an expert in Marketing, adds depth to the conversation by tackling the often-stigmatized topic of mental health in the South Asian community. She discusses how societal pressures and intergenerational expectations can affect emotional well-being, and she emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about therapy, mindfulness, and mental resilience.
Throughout the episode, the hosts address key themes that are universally relevant yet deeply personal for Desi women:
- How cultural narratives impact the way women approach health and self-care.
- The importance of early intervention and preventive care in avoiding chronic conditions.
- Practical tips for integrating fitness, nutrition, and mindfulness into a hectic lifestyle.
- Breaking down the stigma around mental health and encouraging open dialogue within families.
The discussion is enriched with anecdotes, expert-backed insights, and heartfelt stories that are sure to resonate with listeners. Whether it’s about finding joy in a morning yoga session, understanding the mental toll of juggling roles, or learning to set boundaries, this episode is packed with inspiration and motivation for women at every stage of life.
Listeners will walk away with a renewed sense of purpose and empowerment to prioritize their health—both physical and mental. They’ll also discover resources like health apps, online communities, and practical strategies to kickstart or enhance their wellness journeys.
Join us for this engaging episode as we celebrate the resilience and strength of Desi women while advocating for the self-love and care they deserve. Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to share this episode with your loved ones to continue spreading the message of health, balance, and empowerment.
Subscribe our channel for more tips, discussions, and updates from the Global Desi Women community. Your health journey starts today!

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Global Desi Women

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In this deeply insightful episode of Global Desi Women, we welcome Sunita Tarkunde from Houston Ayurveda Center, a passionate advocate of Ayurveda and holistic healing.

Host: Arti Solanki – Business Coach & Real Estate Broker
Co-Hosts: Bhavana Shelley – Consultant | Bhawna Luthra – Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist

Ayurveda, an ancient system of natural healing, has been practiced for thousands of years—but how does it fit into our modern lives? Sunita takes us on a journey through the fundamentals of Ayurveda, explaining how balancing our doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) can lead to better health, mental clarity, and emotional well-being.

We discuss how lifestyle choices, diet, mindfulness, and self-care practices rooted in Ayurveda can transform the way we approach wellness. Sunita shares practical tips for reducing stress, improving digestion, boosting immunity, and achieving harmony in daily life. Whether you're completely new to Ayurveda or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode will give you valuable insights on how to incorporate these age-old practices into your modern routine.

🎧 Tune in this Saturday to hear this transformative conversation on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and all major podcast platforms!

Arti Solanki - https://artisolanki.com/

Social Media - @TheArtiSolanki

Sunita Tarkunde - https://www.houstonayurveda.com/

Houston Ayurveda Center

3222 Mercer Street, Houston, TX 77027
Phone: (713)-623-0005
Email: [email protected]

💬 We’d love to hear from you! Have you ever tried Ayurveda? What’s your experience with natural healing and holistic wellness? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!

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