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Film on Hindu diaspora identity to screen in Bakersfield
‘Namaste Yoga’ examines identity struggles and cultural appropriation through story of Hindu child in Australia
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Pranavi Sharma - Fri, 03, Apr 2026
- 02:52 EDT
- 35
Poster of the film. / Hindu American Foundation.
A screening of the short film ‘Namaste Yoga,’ which follows a 10-year-old boy in Australia grappling with shame over his Indian and Hindu identity, will take place in Bakersfield on April 26, with a discussion featuring its director Ravi Chand.
The film centers on a child caught between his cultural roots and the pressure to assimilate into a dominant culture. After a fight at school, he avoids suspension by attending mandatory lunchtime yoga classes taught by a teacher who recently completed a 200-hour training program.
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The screening is organized by the Hindu American Foundation.
Namaste Yoga is a powerful short film about a 10-year-old boy in Australia who feels ashamed of being Indian and Hindu, caught between his roots and the pressure to fit in. After a fight at school, his only way to avoid suspension is by attending mandatory lunchtime yoga classes,… pic.twitter.com/26WhNkbjpL
— Hindu American Foundation (@HinduAmerican) April 3, 2026
The program is scheduled from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at 1723 Country Breeze Pl. Lunch, including pizza and drinks, will be served at 1 p.m.
The story explores themes of identity, belonging and the cultural appropriation of yoga, focusing on how these experiences shape the self-worth of young Hindu children.
Organizers say the film reflects the experience of growing up as a misunderstood minority and the challenge of maintaining cultural identity while navigating a majority culture.
“This film speaks to so many of us who have grown up as misunderstood minorities,” organizers said in a statement. “If you or your children have ever struggled to hold onto your roots while navigating a majority culture, this story will resonate deeply.”
The event will include a question-and-answer session with Chand following the screening.
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