Michael Turnbull
Prime Minister’s Scholarship for Asia, Reimagining India with IndoGenius
Introduction
Tēnā koutou e hoa mā!
Ko Michael ahau, and I am a 5th year LLB/BA student at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington majoring in International Relations and Development Studies. The Reimagining India programme presents a unique opportunity to learn more about the depth of Indian culture and history, as well as the growing influence India will have on the future of the Asia-Pacific region. I am particularly interested in learning more about how the world’s most populous nation and biggest democracy is positioning itself to face some of the biggest challenges of our region, including climate change and sustainable economic development. The future of the Asia-Pacific will be largely defined by how states confront these transnational issues, and I am excited to learn how Aotearoa New Zealand and India can align themselves to collaboratively approach these for the benefit of all. Of course, it’d be a lie to say I am not also excited for the sights, culture and cuisine of the sub-continent. With that in mind, here’s to an excellent 6 weeks of learning, travel, and some delicious kai! Ka kite 🙂
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Faith, Industrialised
Everywhere you look in India, progress occurs. Rapid industrialisation occurs in rural areas, infrastructure and road developments stand flanked by scaffolding and heavy machinery, while tech and e-commerce startups pay the leases of new-money landlords in cities who are transitioning from scooters and motorcycles to sleek sedans and hatchbacks. Metros and train lines send millions…Continue…
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Kites in the Dawn
In the morning sun, a silver kite flashes its way through a blue sky. Catching the breezes above the islamo-saracenic architecture of Ahmedhabad, it flits and flutters at the end of its string. Down below, the old man stares soberly at his aerial art. At once a plaything, a cultural remnant and a celebrated image…Continue…
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The Thali of India
If you’ve ever visited an Indian restaurant, you may have come across thali. This cuisine consists of a platter, commonly silver, adorned with naan, rice and several small, brightly filled bowls of curry, sauce and pickled fruit and vegetables. A bowl of sweet milk will sit next to a fiery curry, whilst chillies complement yoghurt…Continue…