At Bruijn, we love to explore stories that enrich the history and significance of dried fruits and nuts within the Subcontinent. Our story-telling also offers a window into cultures across India that render borders meaningless, showcasing instead the layered identities of its people. 

This March, we turn the spotlight on Maryam Kakar, an Afghan artist known for documenting her migrant experience through a cultural and visual lens. Through her visually-charged yet simplistic rituals of family life amidst preparations for Ramazan, Nowruz and Eid, the viewer is not only immersed but also transformed in witnessing the strength undertaken by immigrant communities to rebuild a life in India. 

Food is an invariable part of retaining identity and with Ramazan, Nowruz and Eid all being extremely significant for the Persian speaking diaspora, we gain an insight on how dried fruits in specific mark their presence amongst communities. For example, Haft Mewa, a syrupy mixture of dried fruits and nuts made during Nowruz, celebrates abundance and produce. Likewise, dates and fruits like pomegranates and watermelons tie in with identity which is why they are placed alongside at Iftar.

Follow our feed to continue the journey through Maryam's lens as we deep dive into identity and culture.