San Francisco-based Indian content creator Shivee Chauhan has ignited a heated online debate with her video on preventing the lingering smell of Indian food after cooking.
Posted on Instagram, the video offers practical advice for minimizing the strong aromas of spices, onions, and garlic, which are commonly associated with Indian cuisine. "I love my Indian food but hate going out smelling like it," Chauhan stated in the video, which has amassed nearly 8 million views.
Chauhan suggested wearing designated “cooking clothes” to avoid transferring odors to regular attire, avoiding jackets in the kitchen, and keeping doors closed to confine cooking smells. She also recommended swapping red onions for less pungent white onions, acknowledging that the food’s flavor may differ.
While some viewers found her advice helpful, others accused Chauhan of reinforcing racial stereotypes often used to discriminate against people of Indian origin in the West. “How can someone even smell like curry?” one commenter asked, while another described the concept as a “white people notion.”
Supporters appreciated Chauhan's practical approach, with one user noting, “Good tips for all, not just Indian people.” Others offered additional suggestions, such as using coffee powder or baking soda to neutralize odors.
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