Desi Roots & Routes

By: Roundglass India Center at Seattle University
  • Summary

  • Step into the world of fascinating leaders who bridge countries and cultures. Hosted by Sital Kalantry and presented by Seattle University’s Roundglass India Center, Desi Roots & Routes uncovers the inspiring stories of Indian leaders across the U.S. Each episode explores how these individuals navigate dual identities, overcome barriers, and make lasting impacts on their communities. Focusing this season on Seattle, the podcast highlights their journeys from immigration to success in America. We dive into the historical context of each story with expert Nalini Iyer, Professor of English at Seattle University and co-author of Roots & Reflections: South Asians in the Pacific Northwest. We explore themes like philanthropic entrepreneurship, authentic leadership, and the power of the arts—offering insights into the unique experiences and achievements of the Indian diaspora. Subscribe to hear these vibrant narratives, celebrate their contributions, and become part of a community that values cultural connections and mutual growth.
    Copyright 2024 Roundglass India Center at Seattle University
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Episodes
  • Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal’s Journey: From Advocate to Policy-Maker
    Nov 1 2024

    What unique perspectives do immigrant leaders bring to building a more inclusive political landscape?

    Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal is a trailblazing leader in American politics, known for her dedication to immigrant rights and progressive change. From her beginnings in India to her impactful role in Congress, Pramila’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and a deep commitment to justice. This episode explores her pathway from community organizer to U.S. Congress, illuminating her influential role in building coalitions and inspiring a new generation of leaders.

    In this episode, Pramila shares her invaluable insights on;

    • (01:10) Immigrating to the U.S.
    • (08:08) Founding OneAmerica
    • (11:32) Why Congress
    • (13:43) Importance of Representation in Politics
    • (16:05) Segment | AAPI Data Founder and Director Karthick Ramakrishnan discusses the Indian American influence on U.S. political parties.
    • (20:22) Immigration Reform
    • (22:45) Segment | Cornell University Law Professor Stephen W. Yale-Loehr discusses Immigration reform and its challenges.
    • (30:25) Advice for those who want a career in advocating for equity and justice.

    Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

    Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

    And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

    Additional Resources:

    • Voter Registration and Information
    • OneAmerica
    • Roundglass India Center - Indian Americans and Politics with Karthick Ramakrishnan
    • The Indian Express article: The long history of immigration in the U.S.
    • Cornell White Paper: Immigration Reform: A Path Forward
    • AAPI Data

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    34 mins
  • Pallavi Wahi’s Journey: From Junior Associate to Trailblazing Leader
    Oct 18 2024

    What does it take for an immigrant woman to become a powerful voice for authenticity and mentorship in the U.S. legal system?

    Pallavi Mehta Wahi is the Managing Partner at K&L Gates’ Seattle Office, representing one of the largest law firms in the United States. Her journey from India to becoming a leader in the legal field is marked by a deep commitment to mentoring, fostering inclusivity, and building authentic communities. Pallavi’s path highlights the importance of embracing identity while navigating challenges in the professional world.

    In this episode, Pallavi shares her invaluable insights on:

    • (01:26) Immigrating to Seattle
    • (03:09) Finding Success at K&L Gates
    • (08:37) Nalini Iyer’s Segment: Intersectionality in the Workplace
    • (13:17) The importance of being authentic
    • (17:35) Recognizing your own power
    • (19:22) Building communities from the ground up
    • (24:05) Creating a better world for the next generation

    Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

    Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

    And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

    Additional Resources:

    • K&L Gates
    • Book - On Intersectionality: Essential Writings by Kimberlé Crenshaw
    • South Asian Bar Association of Washington
    • API Chaya
    • SU News: University Designated as Minority Serving Institution

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    31 mins
  • Rita Meher's Journey: From Hate to Healing Through Film
    Oct 4 2024

    How does a hate incident spark a storyteller’s successful film career and inspire a lifelong commitment to confronting difficult experiences and shining a light on them?

    Rita Meher is a filmmaker, activist, and co-founder of Tasveer, the world’s only Oscar-qualifying South Asian film festival. Her path from a small village in India to becoming a leader in the arts community of Seattle is one of resilience and purpose. Inspired by the challenges she faced as an Adivasi and the post-9/11 climate in America, Rita has dedicated her career to creating space for marginalized voices and becoming a trailblazer within the film community for social change and justice.

    In this episode, Rita shares her invaluable insights on:

    • (1:45) Growing up as an Adivasi
    • (4:40) Nalini Iyer’s historical segment: how caste discrimination persists in the Indian diaspora
    • (11:30) The effect of post 9/11 hate incidents in America
    • (17:05) The role of film festivals and film markets
    • (23:51) Growing to love Seattle
    • (27:06) The importance of staying focused

    Desi Roots and Routes: Pathways to Success of Indians in America is brought to you by the Roundglass India Center at Seattle University. Join our host, Sital Kalantry, Professor of Law and Director of the Roundglass India Center as she delves into the incredible stories of Indian Americans exploring their roots in India and the routes they took to become inspiring leaders in America.

    Subscribe to Desi Roots and Routes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in. And stay up to date on our latest episodes and insights by visiting our website and following us on LinkedIn and YouTube!

    And if you want more information on the Roundglass India Center, subscribe to our newsletter here! Thanks for tuning in and remember to keep building bridges and creating connections.

    Additional Resources:

    • Tasveer Film Festival
    • Tasveer Film Fund
    • Tasveer Film Market
    • Art Beat - Office of Arts & Culture
    • Equality Labs
    • Article: Suraj Yengde - Global Castes

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    29 mins

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