The Map of Inclusion: A Restaurant’s Apology, a Nation’s Conversation

Lovlina Borgohain, an Indian Olympic medalist, recently had a triumphant moment turn into an uncomfortable experience when she dined at Glasgow’s Mister Singh’s India - The Home of Curry. The restaurant’s logo and napkins displayed an incomplete map of India that omitted the Northeast region, where Lovlina grew up. She politely raised her concerns with the management, and soon a video of their discussion went viral on social media.

The ensuing backlash was swift and severe, with many criticizing the restaurant for its insensitivity. In response, Mister Singh’s India issued a public apology, acknowledging their mistake and promising to rectify it. However, in a surprising twist, the restaurant’s Instagram account was deleted shortly after the apology was issued.

A Nation’s Conversations

The incident at Mister Singh’s India is just one of several recent examples where Indian restaurants abroad have faced criticism for cultural insensitivity or lack thereof. These incidents highlight the complexities and challenges that come with representing a country’s rich cultural heritage in a foreign land. From mislabeling dishes to displaying inaccurate maps, these mistakes serve as a reminder of the power dynamics at play.

In India, regionalism and nationalism are long-standing issues that often find expression in subtle ways. Lovlina’s hurt was not just personal but also representative of the collective pain felt by many Indians who have been marginalized or excluded from mainstream discourse. The Northeast region has historically been overlooked, and incidents like this perpetuate a sense of exclusion.

The Politics of Maps

The map on Mister Singh’s India’s logo might seem like a minor issue, but it speaks volumes about the politics of representation and identity. In an age where borders are increasingly fluid, it’s astonishing that basic errors continue to occur. Maps hold cultural significance and emotional resonance for people who call a particular region home.

Lovlina’s request was not just about correcting an error but also about acknowledging the experiences and perspectives of those from the Northeast. Her words serve as a poignant reminder that our actions have consequences that ripple far beyond our immediate surroundings.

The Restaurant’s Responsibility

Mister Singh’s India has promised to change its logo and ensure that all future representations of India are accurate. While this is a welcome step, it raises questions about the restaurant’s responsibility to its customers, employees, and the wider community. As an institution serving Indian food and culture abroad, Mister Singh’s India has a duty to be mindful of cultural nuances and historical contexts.

This includes being sensitive to regional identities and ensuring that all representations are accurate and respectful. The restaurant must take steps to educate itself about the complexities of Indian identity and representation, rather than relying on assumptions or stereotypes.

A Nation’s Responsibility

The incident at Mister Singh’s India is just one small part of a larger conversation about representation, identity, and belonging. As Indians abroad continue to navigate the complexities of cultural heritage and national pride, it’s essential to acknowledge the hurt and exclusion that many have faced. This is not just a matter of correcting maps or logos; it’s about recognizing power dynamics at play in representing and perpetuating certain identities over others.

It’s up to us – as individuals, communities, and institutions – to create a world where everyone feels included, represented, and valued. As Lovlina so eloquently put it, “Please don’t take this the wrong way. I felt a little hurt by this.”