I previously wrote about how I was afraid that the new show “Family Karma”  may have some consequences on how the South Asian diaspora is viewed by others and the diaspora itself. However, I also had to watch it given that I had such a strong opinion on it. I watched it with an open mind, and I was surprised, I really enjoyed it.

I have to say the trailer is extremely sensationalist and does try to stir the pot, however, the show itself addresses a variety of issues.

We are introduced to a cast and their families and different issues have come forward. These issues were quite normal to me (given my own South Asian background), but it was interesting to see them from another lens and just observe them unfold.

I have to say, Monica Vaswani stuck out to me and her adorable smile and easy-going vibe really drew me into the show. She was very relatable and in my mind, I think we’re quite similar! She’s also extremely humble, she takes the time to answer messages and comments and really makes sure that she connects with the viewers of the show. Her dad is the most adorable person and his love for her is just amazing. She addresses her parents divorce in the most gracious manner, and given that the issue of divorce is still taboo, it is refreshing to see how the Vaswani family portrays it. I am glad that they show how separation and divorce are not issues that should be seen as “controversial,” given that their daughter clearly is happy and that everyone’s happiness really matters at the end of the day.

I also have to say, I am really hoping Brian and Monica get together, because they are the cutest!

While seeing Vishal’s struggle to make his mom and (hopefully future) mother in law get along, it really shows how South Asian weddings affect the whole family and not just those who are getting married.

I had to say my heart melted a bit when I heart Amrit’s mom saying that she is happy that her son is happy and to see her not scrutinizing her son’s sexuality! When they had their interview, his mom admitted that it shattered her at first, but she’s able to see that this is her son and it is not something she can change.

These are the stories that really stuck out to me, but I have to say Family Karma may be good representation (yes, I said it!)

I have to also say, one of the producers is also of South Asian descent which makes me happy that the representation is not just on camera, but also behind!

I am very excited to see Bali who has been very open about who she is and seems very unapologetic.

I would like to say, my first article on Family Karma addressed the issue of the danger of a single story, but Family Karma (while still predominantly Hindu), has many stories and is not trying to erase other narratives – it is actually showing how a friend group has many different issues and can deal with them.

I am glad that I can see a cast where each one does look like my family, friends and I.

I’m hoping Family Karma can demonstrate that we need more representation given that it is relatable to those of that culture. Seeing how these families have adapted to western culture and still balanced their own culture and shared this with their children.

I am glad that I kept an open mind and was able to see a show that does have representation and it is not tacky or pretentious.

Contrary to the trailer, the show is relatable and does not try to be something it is not.

I am really hoping Family Karma becomes more inclusive and that it does show how South Asians do not conform to the typical stereotypes that have been thrown at us.

I also hope that it shows different family dynamics and how we do not have to have “traditional” households in order to maintain the tradition. It does maintain certain stereotypes that families have passed down. However, the cast tactfully addresses these issues and tries to show their parents that their way is not always necessarily the only way (or right way!)