Shifting Centres: The Nu Brown Era
As an avid observer of cultural dynamics, especially within Brown communities, I’ve witnessed an evolution. It seems we’re no longer tethered to trends dictated solely by the West. Rather, a kaleidoscope of diverse cultural movements is taking centre stage, redefining norms and amplifying a multitude of voices.
In recent years, the global cultural landscape has witnessed a remarkable surge in the prominence of Brown culture, particularly from South Asia. From arts and entertainment to literature and politics, Brown icons have been making waves and leaving an mark on the world stage and something that is not leaving anytime soon. This movement signifies the coming of the Nu Brown Era, where the diverse voices and talents of the Brown community are being celebrated like never before.
The music scene, one that i closely observe, has been a vital catalyst in this cultural revolution. The iconic Diljit Dosanjh, headlined Coachella, one of the coolest music festivals in the world. Furthermore, Ali Sethi’s “Pasoori” became the most searched track of 2023 on Google, while Prateek Kuhad’s tunes found their way onto Barack Obama’s playlist for two consecutive years. This global recognition underscores the growing influence of Brown artists and their ability to captivate audiences worldwide.
Cinema, too, has embraced the power of Brown representation. Marvel Studios introduced a Pakistani teenager as a central character in their latest creation, showcasing the importance of diverse storytelling. Talented actors such as Riz Ahmed and Aakash Singh, along with visionary directors like Anurag Kashyap, have been making waves at prestigious film festivals like Cannes, amplifying the Brown narrative on an international platform.
Not limited to music and cinema, the fashion industry is also experiencing an Indian renaissance. Dior’s Spring-Summer 2023 Fashion show took place at the iconic Gateway of India, symbolising the fusion of global fashion with Indian aesthetics. Indian brands like Karu Research and Kardo have garnered attention and accolades, with the latter being championed by none other than basketball legend LeBron James. These successes highlight India’s significant contributions to the global fashion arena.
The Pakistani brand Rastah has garnered attention for its innovative designs and commitment to sustainability. With its unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, Rastah has captured the imagination of fashion enthusiasts worldwide, demonstrating the growing influence of Pakistani fashion on the global stage.
Additionally, the apparel brand Nor Black Nor White is making waves with its distinct style, drawing inspiration from a fusion of global cultures rather than solely Indian textiles. These brands exemplify the diversity and creativity emerging from South Asia’s fashion scene, contributing to its ever-growing influence on the global fashion arena.
In addition to these remarkable achievements, Imran Amed, the visionary founder and CEO of The Business of Fashion (BoF), has played a pivotal role in amplifying the voices of South Asian designers and brands on the global stage. Through BoF, Amed has provided a platform for emerging talents and established names alike, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the South Asian fashion landscape.
Furthermore, the world of literature has witnessed a surge in influential Brown voices. Authors such as Jhumpa Lahiri, Arundhati Roy, and Rupi Kaur have captured the hearts and minds of readers globally with their evocative storytelling and thought-provoking narratives. Their works have not only showcased the depth and complexity of Brown experiences but have also resonated with audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Beyond the realms of entertainment and arts, Brown individuals are making their mark in various fields, including technology, business, and activism. Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, and Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, are both prominent figures who exemplify the impact of Brown talent in the tech industry.
South Asian creators born and raised abroad are making waves globally, exemplifying the diversity and richness of Brown culture. These includes folks like Aakash Singh, Aziz Ansari, Hasan Minaj, Kumail Naijhliani. These creators are not looked at like stereotypical characters as seen in 2010s anymore. They have taken centerstage and are producing and directing shows and selling out all of the sought after performance spaces.
One of my favourites, Vir Das, for instance, has transcended borders with his multifaceted talents in comedy, acting, and music, captivating audiences around the world.
While all of this has been happening at the top of the surface. There are underground Global South Asian communities in music that I’ve been observing that have have grown rapidly over the past few years.
In the UK, smaller independent creative communities like Daytimers have been instrumental in fostering artistic expression and cultural exchange. Founded by Yung Singh, Daytimers has carved out a niche by curating events that blend South Asian music, art, and fashion with contemporary youth culture. Through vibrant club gigs, pop-ups, and collaborative projects, Daytimers provides a platform for emerging artists and DJs to showcase their talent while celebrating South Asian heritage in innovative ways.
Similarly, in the US, initiatives like No Nazar have emerged as grassroots movements that amplify the voices of South Asian creatives and challenge mainstream narratives.
These communities though maybe smaller in comparison to the big creators and movements I mentioned earlier, are the ones that really make a difference to build any pivotal culture.
These examples underscore the global impact of Brown culture and the pivotal role that South Asian creators, both within their home countries and abroad, play in shaping the global cultural landscape. As we embrace the Nu Brown Era, it’s evident that the time has come for creators from South Asian countries and diaspora communities to impact global landscapes in culture.
With diverse talents, innovative perspectives, and a growing appetite for authentic storytelling, the Nu Brown Era represents an unparalleled opportunity for creators of all kinds to shine. Whether it’s in music, cinema, literature, technology, business, or activism, Brown voices are leading the charge in redefining global culture and pushing boundaries.
In conclusion, the Nu Brown Era heralds a new chapter in cultural history, where South Asian creators stand poised to make an unprecedented impact on the world stage. It’s a time for celebration, collaboration, and creativity — a time for the Browns to shine brightly and inspire generations to come.
