In Part 1 on cultural appropriation, I shared about the colonial mindset. Again, this is a mindset and not dependent on the colour of one's skin. However, historically, when a country or race has been oppressed, the stereotypes, exploitation, belittling and biases continue through generations. Or a country and/or its people are sensationalised, exotisised and even tokenised. Many times these biases are hidden within the crevices of our brains where we do not even know why we have raga (attraction) or dwesha (repulsion) to someone or something. Like trauma, we are triggered by something from our past and, if not careful, it can skew our perception of others and the world. These coloured lenses with which we gauge people are not always based on high ideals.

In this installment on cultural appropriation, we will also explore ways to reconcile.

March 21st was not just the day after spring equinox but also the International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination. It is unfortunate that gender and race is the reason for much disparity. In essence we are all equal, yet we may have been discriminated against for being in a woman’s body or a person of a particular race.

Not everyone is connected to the spirit within, identifying mostly with matter, form or what is on the surface. The biases and conditioning that go with these perceptions direct one's actions unconsciously. This is unfortunate, as a world built on habitual superficiality will breed inequality.

The last few years and especially the last few months I have seen a surge in conversations around this topic where I am being invited to speak at many yoga studios about cultural appropriation. Social media has also contributed in a good way to create more awareness. I have always believed in an inclusive approach, yet it also requires humility from those who do not know to acknowledge they do not know.

My deepest gratitude to the divine feminine on this day. May this day be a celebration of the feminine in all of us. This day can be a way of celebrating sensitisation in men as well. As we do this we see that the polarities of male and female exist within us as beautifully depicted by Ardhanareshwar in Indian symbolism. Ardha = half, Nari = woman, Ishwar = Lord

The more men honour so-called feminine qualities in them like being responsive to emotions and not negating them, the more they will honour women. They will learn that these qualities are strengths and not weaknesses and use the power in them and in women to create a more uplifting and cohesive world. I am grateful for everyone in female form as well who have paved the path in practical ways for other women to follow.