Masaba on pregnancy advice “It happened to me just yesterday that somebody who came up to me for some pre-natal something telling me, ‘You must eat a rasgulla every day’ because your kid has to turn out lighter than you. And then, 15 days before that, I was getting another pre-natal massage, because that’s what I do, and she (her masseuse) said to me, ‘Aap na doodh liya karo (you must consume milk). Saawla nahi hona chahiye, nahi honi chahiye, whatever (your child must not turn out dusky).’ It was said with so much innocence. You have no choice – what can I do? Punch my masseuse? No,” Masaba said.
This statement by Masaba Gupta, a prominent Indian fashion designer, reflects a deeply personal and nuanced understanding of racism. It’s not about seeking a quick fix or a magical solution.
Her journey to becoming a fashion designer is a testament to her unique blend of cultural heritage and personal ambition. Masaba’s early life was marked by a nomadic upbringing, as her parents’ relationship was tumultuous. This nomadic lifestyle exposed her to diverse cultures and experiences, shaping her perspective and fostering a sense of global citizenship.
