Arriving from the minds of Shondaland, Bridgerton swept hearts with its first season. Recently, the show introduced us to the new debutantes of the Regency Era, and the South Asian and Indian representation in Bridgerton season 2 has become an essential part of the new season. From an Indian track being used during the Haldi ceremony (an Indian pre-wedding ritual) to the infamous Masala Chai (Indian tea), the "Indianness" highlighted by the Sharma Family should definitely be looked upon. Indeed, the Indian euphoria overpowering Bridgerton season 2 episodes need to be discussed. Especially now that the South Asian phenomena in a famed TV series have elevated the Indian culture globally. Besides Anthony looking for a new bride, fans have also discovered an entire directory of words and traditions.
Bridgerton clearly understands the protocols of society and social class. And to serve a larger demographic, the original Netflix series did an excellent job of introducing new characters. While the other Bridgerton characters brought nostalgia from season 1, the unique setting of season 2 was a new ride. Here's a list of our favorite moments of Indian culture that adorned Bridgerton season 2.
6 Haldi Ceremony
The Sharmas represented every aspect of being an Indian family. In episode 6, "The Choice," we get a glimpse into Edwina's (Charithra Chandran) wedding festivities, including Haldi Ceremony, paying tribute to her Indian roots. Haldi Ceremony has its characteristics during an Indian wedding. Along with the bride and groom, all the guests wear yellow at the Haldi event and put Haldi (turmeric) on the couples' bodies.
The terminology behind putting the Haldi mask on the couple is to get them ready for their big day. In "Hindu" traditions and beauty books, turmeric gives brightening effects when applied. Since it's also called a magical medicine, an Ubtan (paste) is made with other herbs for the couple, so they stand out on their big night. In Bridgerton season 2, we see Edwina and her friends dressed up in yellow as they prepare for her marriage to Anthony.
5 The "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" Song
In the same episode as the Haldi Ceremony, Bridgerton introduced a Bollywood track to elevate the Indian culture and its element in their new season. In February, during a press release and article, Netflix announced the inclusion of "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham," a title track from an Indian movie of the same name. The song played during Edwina's Haldi ceremony, and other wedding festivities made many South Asians emotional. The song aligned with the scene has a significant meaning since "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham" originally celebrates the times spent together with the family and the love they share. In the Bridgerton season 2, episode 6, we find the three Sharma ladies gathered together for a family affair. Without a doubt, the inclusion of a newly refined version of a Bollywood track has made the Desi clan very happy.
4 Using Indian Language
Netflix and Shondaland did an appreciable job representing the Indian culture and values in season 2. Kate (Simone Ashley) and Edwina continuously referred to their father as "Appa," which simply translates to father in the Tamil language. More than that, Edwina is constantly seen referring to Kate as "Didi," meaning older sister. In Indian culture, one does not refer to an older person by name, and even though the Sharmas reside in a foreign land, their roots still belong to India. Undoubtedly, Bridgerton stays true to its plot and the setting, whether it's the accuracy of the Regency Era in season 1 or the Indian representation in season 2.
3 The Masala Chai
An Indian can't live without their Masala Chai (special spice-filled Indian tea). Bridgerton season 2 saw Kate having an immense love for Masala Chai, just like any other Indian. Tea is relatively popular in the English culture as well; however, after witnessing the latest episodes of the hit Netflix period drama, we have got our answer regarding which tea is best. In a scene from the latest season, Kate sits down with Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh) and bravely calls out the English tea. Indeed, it's true (we couldn't agree more). The Indian Masala Chai is infused with fresh spices (cardamom, black pepper, clove), giving it an intense yet fresh taste.
2 The Head Massage
Netflix surely did thorough research before crafting the Indian elements in the new season of Bridgerton. It is a common practice among Indians to champi (massage) their heads with oil before getting to bed. It has been in the tradition for hundreds of years, and people do it to keep their locks shiny, strong, and luscious. The stress-killing quintessential habit of Indians is also incorporated in the Sharma residence. Kate is seen giving Edwina a head massage while the duo shares a meaningful conversation.
1 Incorporation of Indian Jewellery
Keeping aside the traditions, Kate and Edwina are also seen beautifying themselves with Indian jewelry. The sisters are seen wearing gold bangles engraved with gemstones. Indian women, especially those from the southern part, are deeply influenced by gold and gold jewelry. The Sharma sisters — Edwina and Kate — belong to the Tamil ancestry, naturally exhibiting their love for gold.