The EkWomen podcasts share authentic and inspiring narratives from South Asian women of the diaspora. This interview with Bandana Purkayastha features a woman at the forefront of diversity, gender, and race issues in North America. Purkayastha was born in Kolkota, or Calcutta as it was known then, and emigrated to the US in 1984. She admits it was not easy to adjust initially. Many immigrants from the 80’s will resonate with her story of friends who are family, driving long distances for Indian groceries, needing to unlearn and relearn academic skills and becoming self-sufficient in cooking, driving and raising kids.
Bandana is currently the professor of sociology, as well as Asian and American Studies at the University of Connecticut. She talks about making a career switch and her work in the field of intersectionality, human rights, migration, violence, and peace. Apart from winning awards, you’ll learn about her work in the national and international sphere as representative of the sociological association. She asserts women of colour need to have a voice at the table. Like EkWomen, Bandana believes in the importance of mentors and provides valuable insights to pave the path for other immigrant women.
Bandana’s daughter joins the conversation. Listen to their banter and learn as they discuss values, pride in their shared heritage and the need for trust.
