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As part of South Asian Heritage Month, colleagues and students from across the Department of Chemical Engineering are sharing personal reflections on the cultures, traditions and stories that have shaped their lives.

South Asian Heritage Month, celebrated annually from 1 July to 31 July, provides an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the rich histories, diverse cultures and lasting contributions of South Asian communities. Within the Department of Chemical Engineering, it is also a chance to highlight the experiences and perspectives that make up its vibrant and inclusive community.

From Bangladesh to India, members of the department reflected on the values, inspirations and cultural traditions they hold closest, while sharing recommendations for films and literature that have helped shape their connection to their heritage.

Celebrating identity, family and community

For me, my Bangladeshi heritage is defined by a strong sense of family, community, and respect for others. It has shaped the way I see the world, reminding me to stay connected to my roots while remaining open to learning from different cultures and experiences. Samhat Rahman Undergraduate Student

For Samhat Rahman, an undergraduate student and active member of the department's Sustainability Committee, Bangladeshi heritage is deeply rooted in family, community and respect for others.

Samhat highlighted Bangladesh's rich cultural and historical legacy, from its literature and landscapes to its remarkable history as the only country to fight for the right to speak its own language, inspiring .

The values of resilience, patience and hard work passed down by family members continue to inspire her approach to both academic and personal life. She also reflected on how her role on the department's Sustainability Committee aligns closely with lessons learned growing up, particularly around reducing waste and making the most of available resources.

Working within a diverse university environment has further reinforced the importance of different perspectives.

For those interested in exploring Bangladeshi culture, Samhat recommends films including Guerrilla, Hangor Nodi Grenade and Aynabaji, which explore themes of resilience, identity and hope.

Inspired by courage and determination

One thing I wish more people understood is the incredible diversity of India. Every region has its own languages, traditions and cuisine, making it so much more than the stereotypes often associated with Indian culture. Isha Bade Researcher in the Department of Chemical Engineering

For Isha Bade, a researcher in the Heng Research Group, Indian heritage represents a vibrant blend of culture, food, art and literature that continues to influence her outlook and values.

Growing up surrounded by these traditions instilled a strong appreciation for India's diversity, which she feels is often overlooked.

One of Isha's greatest inspirations is her grandmother, who became a teacher at a time when many women faced significant barriers to education and professional careers.

Working and studying within a multicultural environment has reinforced her belief that innovation thrives when people from different backgrounds come together, challenge assumptions and learn from one another.

To explore Indian storytelling, Isha recommends The Palace of Illusions by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, a reimagining of the epic Mahabharata through the perspective of Draupadi, offering insights into identity, resilience and female strength.

Finding connection through culture and community

Being away from home has only strengthened that connection. For me, it lives in the comfort of familiar food, which I see as pure emotion, and in the incredible diversity of India itself. Zain Ahmad Researcher in the Department of Chemical Engineering

For Zain Ahmad, a researcher in the Cabral Group, moving from Aligarh, India, to 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ for his PhD has strengthened his connection to his heritage.

Zain reflected on India's many languages, traditions and ways of life, while highlighting the shared values of respect and community that unite people across the country.

One of his greatest inspirations is Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, the scientist and former President of India, whose message about the transformative power of education continues to guide him.

Zain also spoke about the value of 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ's diverse community, describing how working alongside people from around the world has broadened his perspective and introduced him to new cultures, ideas and ways of thinking.

For anyone interested in exploring Indian culture through storytelling, Zain recommends the film Taare Zameen Par (Like Stars on Earth) and Malgudi Days by R.K. Narayan, both of which capture themes of humanity, potential and the richness of everyday life.

A community enriched by different perspectives

The experiences shared by Samhat, Isha and Zain reflect the diversity that exists across the Department of Chemical Engineering and the wider 911½ñÈÕºÚÁÏ community. While each story is unique, common themes emerge: the importance of family and community, the value of education, and the role that diverse perspectives play in creating inclusive and innovative environments.

As South Asian Heritage Month is celebrated across the university, these reflections provide an opportunity to learn more about the cultures, histories and stories that continue to shape and enrich the department's community.